Odisha Govt Announces New Excise Policy to Tackle Illicit Liquor Trade

Bhubaneswar:The Odisha government on Friday unveiled its new Excise Policy, set to take effect from September 2024, aimed at curbing illicit liquor trade and promoting public awareness regarding alcohol consumption.

Key highlights of the new policy include a moratorium on new liquor shops, with no new IMFL OFF shop, Country Liquor (CL) shop, or Out Still (OS) shop to be opened in the current financial year. This move is seen as a step to contain the proliferation of alcohol outlets, particularly in rural areas. The only exceptions will be 3-star and above category hotels, which will be allowed to open ON shops in rural areas.

Additionally, 57 ON Shops, which have not been renewed in previous years, will not be renewed in the current financial year. The government also announced that the MGQ (Minimum Guaranteed Quantity) factor, typically increased annually, will remain unchanged this year, providing relief to licensees amid economic challenges.

In a move to regulate bar operations, the policy specifies that bars will only be allowed to serve music, with a strict prohibition on bar dances. This decision is intended to align entertainment at bars with the state’s guidelines on responsible alcohol consumption.

The new Excise Policy also focuses on public health, with the state government setting up a special fund dedicated to raising mass awareness against the consumption of intoxicants. This includes education campaigns aimed at discouraging alcohol abuse and promoting healthier lifestyle choices.

Furthermore, the policy addresses the need for stronger enforcement measures, with provisions for fresh recruitment and training of excise staff, along with an increase in the number of vehicles and the establishment of new excise stations. These initiatives are intended to intensify the crackdown on illicit liquor trade and prevent liquor smuggling across the state.