The Uttarakhand government has announced its new Excise Policy for 2025, bringing significant reforms aimed at regulating liquor sales, protecting consumer rights, and boosting state revenue. The policy includes strict regulations on liquor shop locations, consumer pricing protections, and incentives for local wineries.

With a revenue target of ₹5,060 crore for FY 2025-26, the government aims to balance economic growth with social responsibility. Here’s a breakdown of the major highlights of the policy.

Major Highlights of Uttarakhand Excise Policy 2025

Liquor Shops to be Shut Near Religious Places

• To respect the sanctity of religious places, the policy mandates the closure of liquor shops near temples, mosques, and other places of worship.
• This move is intended to maintain public sensitivity and regulate alcohol sales in culturally significant areas.

Strict Action Against Overpricing – Licenses to be Canceled

• Liquor shops must sell alcohol at or below the Maximum Retail Price (MRP).
• If a shop is found charging above MRP, its license will be canceled.
• MRP rules will now apply to departmental stores as well, ensuring fair pricing for all consumers.

₹5,060 Crore Revenue Target Set for 2025-26

• The state’s excise revenue has grown steadily over the past two years.
• Revenue Performance in Recent Years:
  • FY 2023-24: Earned ₹4,038.69 crore (against a target of ₹4,000 crore).
  • FY 2024-25: ₹4,000 crore collected so far (target ₹4,439 crore).
  • FY 2025-26 Target: ₹5,060 crore.

15-Year Excise Duty Exemption for Hill Wineries

• Wineries in hilly areas will be exempt from excise duty for the next 15 years.
• This initiative encourages local winemaking using fruits grown in Uttarakhand, boosting the horticulture sector and farmers’ incomes.
• Local residents will get priority for wholesale liquor licenses, creating economic opportunities.

Boost to Local Farmers – Use of Locally Produced Ingredients

• Distilleries will be encouraged to use local agricultural products for liquor production.
• Lower export duties will attract new investments in the liquor industry.
• Special incentives for malt and spirit industries in hilly regions to promote local entrepreneurship.

Transparent Allocation of Liquor Shops

• The allocation process for liquor shops will follow fair and transparent procedures.
• Shops will be allocated through:
  • Lottery system
  • Renewal process
  • Maximum offer method

Public Awareness Campaigns on Alcohol Consumption

• Special campaigns will be launched to educate people about the harmful effects of alcohol.
• The policy focuses on economic strengthening, transparency, and social responsibility.

Key Takeaways from the New Policy

Shops near religious places to be shut Overpricing will lead to license cancellation
₹5,060 crore revenue target set 15-year excise duty exemption for hill wineries
Boost for local farmers & distilleries Fair and transparent shop allocation system

This policy is a major step towards regulating alcohol sales while promoting local industries. By ensuring consumer protection and economic growth, the Uttarakhand government aims to balance business interests with social responsibility.