In HP current affairs on 6 March 2023, the State Cabinet has given its approval for the new Excise Policy for the year 2023-24. The policy aims to increase government revenue, reduce the price of liquor and prevent its smuggling from neighboring states. Read on for the key highlights of the new Excise Policy.

HP Cabinet Approves New Excise Policy for 2023-24: Key Highlights
The Himachal Pradesh State Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has given its approval for the new Excise Policy for the year 2023-24. The policy aims to increase government revenue, reduce the price of liquor and prevent its smuggling from neighboring states. Here are the key highlights of the new Excise Policy:
1: Auction-cum-Tender of Retail Excise Vends
The Cabinet has approved the auction-cum-tender of retail excise vends in the state for the year 2023-24. This move is expected to generate adequate revenue for the government and reduce the price of liquor. It will also curb the smuggling of liquor from neighboring states.
2: Introduction of Keg Draught Beer
The policy allows the introduction of keg draught beer in retail vends with a capacity of 5 litres. This will give customers access to a wider variety of beer.
3: New Category of Liquor Obtained by Fermentation of Fruits
To boost the economy and support horticulturists, a new category of liquor obtained by fermentation of fruits and their distillation or by blending has been introduced.
4: Mini Bars in 3-Star Rated Hotels and Above
To promote tourism in the state, 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.
5: End-to-End Online Excise Administration System
To enable effective monitoring and tracking of liquor bottles, an end-to-end online Excise Administration System will be set up in the state. This system will provide real-time monitoring of various modules.
6: Consultation with Stakeholders
All stakeholders, including government, consumers, retailers, wholesalers, bottling plants, distilleries, and hotels & bars, were consulted before framing the new policy. Their feedback was taken into account to ensure that the policy benefits all sections.
7: Himachal Pradesh Water Cess on Hydropower Generation
The Cabinet has also decided to introduce the Himachal Pradesh Water Cess on Hydropower Generation Bill, 2023, in the upcoming Vidhan Sabha session. The Himachal Pradesh Water Cess on Hydropower Generation Ordinance, 2023, will be implemented with effect from 10th March 2023.
Also Read:
- HP Current Affairs 19 March 2023: Latest News and Updates
- HP Current Affairs 14 March 2023: E-waste Collection, Supplementary Budget, and Corona Alert
- HP Current Affairs 13 March 2023: Disaster Relief, School Uniforms, and Paragliding Championship
- HP Current Affairs 12 March 2023: Snow Marathon at Sissu & Water Cess on Hydel Projects
FAQs:
What is the objective of the new Excise Policy approved by the HP Cabinet?
The objective of the new Excise Policy is to increase government revenue, reduce the price of liquor, and prevent its smuggling from neighboring states.
How will the new Excise Administration System benefit the state?
The new Excise Administration System will enable effective monitoring and tracking of liquor bottles, providing real-time monitoring of various modules. This will help in controlling the sale and distribution of liquor and prevent illegal activities related to it.
How will the new policy boost tourism in the state?
To promote tourism in the state, L-3, L-4, and L-5 license holders will be allowed to have mini bars for occupants in all rooms of 3-star rated hotels and above. This will enhance the hospitality sector and attract more tourists to the state.
When will the Himachal Pradesh Water Cess on Hydropower Generation Bill, 2023, be implemented?
The Himachal Pradesh Water Cess on Hydropower Generation Bill, 2023, will be introduced in the upcoming Vidhan Sabha session, and the Himachal Pradesh Water Cess on Hydropower Generation Ordinance, 2023, will be implemented with effect from 10th March 2023.
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