“Boost economy, curb smuggling & benefit customers! Himachal Pradesh Cabinet Approves New Policies, auction of retail excise vends for 2023-24 with new liquor categories, mini bars in hotels & end-to-end online system. Details here.”
Himachal Pradesh Cabinet Approves New Policies to Boost Revenue and Tourism
The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet presided over by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, recently approved a number of policies aimed at boosting government revenue and tourism in the state.
Auction-Cum-Tender of Retail Excise Vends
The Cabinet approved the auction-cum-tender of retail excise vends in the state for the year 2023-24. The objective is to increase government revenue while also reducing the price of liquor and curbing smuggling from neighboring states.
Keg Draught Beer and Imported Wine
In a move that will benefit customers, the Cabinet decided to introduce keg draught beer in retail vends with a capacity of 5 liters. This will make more varieties of beer available to customers. Additionally, the bottling of imported wine in the state’s wineries has been allowed, which will make bestselling high-range wine brands more easily available to customers.
New Category of Liquor
The Cabinet has also decided to introduce a new category of liquor obtained by fermentation of fruits and their distillation or by blending. This move is aimed at boosting the economy and supporting horticulturists in the state.
Mini Bars in 3-Star Hotels and Above
In order to boost tourism, the Cabinet has allowed L-3, L-4, and L-5 license holders to have mini bars for occupants in all rooms of 3-star-rated hotels and above. This move is aimed at providing greater convenience and comfort for tourists.
Online Excise Administration System
An effective, end-to-end online Excise Administration System will be set up in the state which will include the facility of track and trace of liquor bottles, among other features. This move is aimed at improving the administration of the state’s excise system and ensuring greater transparency.
Stakeholder Engagement
The policies have been framed taking into account the views of all stakeholders, including government, consumers, retailers, wholesalers, bottling plants, distilleries, and hotels & bars. The department engaged with all sections to take feedback based on which these decisions were taken.
Himachal Pradesh Water Cess on Hydropower Generation
The Cabinet also decided to introduce the Himachal Pradesh Water Cess on Hydropower Generation Bill, 2023 in the coming Vidhan Sabha session and implement The Himachal Pradesh Water Cess on Hydropower Generation Ordinance, 2023 with effect from 10th March 2023. This move is aimed at boosting revenue for the state.
