Punjab Governor and Administrator UT Chandigarh Banwarilal Purohit on Friday approved the new Excise Policy for the year 2022-23 for Chandigarh. The approval came after a detailed presentation by the Adviser to the Administrator, Finance Secretary-cum-Secretary (E&T), Deputy Commissioner-cum-Excise & Taxation Commissioner and other Senior Officers of the Excise Department. "The new Excise Policy aims at balancing the aspirations of the consumers, manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and the Government," an official statement said.
Other features of the Excise Policy includes
*** 65 degree proof of Country Liquor has been introduced apart from the existing 50 degree proof and 60 degree proof. This will increase choice for the consumers and make better quality of Country Liquor available.
*** To curb spurious liquor, pilfer proof seals are made mandatory in Country Liquor bottles.
*** Imported RTD (Ready to Drink) has been allowed for sale in U.T. Chandigarh.
*** The allotment of Retail Vends of Liquor will be made through e-tendering system for more transparency.
*** Mandatory computerized billing to be introduced by 1st October, 2022 and penalty of Rs. 5000/- introduced on non-issuance of receipt.
*** Facility of 2 hour extension in closure timings (i.e. up to 3 AM) given to Restaurants / Bars / Hotels on payment of additional license fees.
*** Round the clock service of liquor also allowed in 3 Star & 4 Star Hotels on payment of additional license fees.
*** Stringent penalty for non-maintenance of Minimum Retail Sale Price by liquor vends introduced.
*** CCTV cameras to be introduced in all retail vends by 1st May, 2022.
*** Penalty of Rs. 50,000/- introduced on sale of expired liquor by retail vends.
*** To promote low alcoholic drinks, license fees and duties have not been increased on Beer, Wine, RTD (Ready to Drink) etc.
*** No increase in license fees of Hotels & Restaurants
*** Excise Duties have been increased by approximately 5.5%.
** Minimum Retail Sale Price has been reasonably increased in the range of 5% to 10% considering input costs and taxes.
