Jaipur, 30th January 2025 : The Rajasthan government has announced its Excise and Temperance Policy for 2025-29, introducing key changes in liquor taxation, retail shop management, and strict regulations on illicit liquor. The policy, effective from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2029, aims to bring more transparency to the excise system, encourage business growth, and curb illegal liquor activities.
Key Highlights of the New Policy
1. Liquor Shops to Operate in Cluster System
- The number of liquor shops will remain unchanged at 7,665 across the state.
- Existing license holders will get a renewal opportunity, provided 70% of shops in a district are renewed.
- Shops that remain unrenewed will be auctioned online to ensure transparency.
- Licenses can now be renewed for the entire 4-year policy period, with a 10% annual increase in security deposits.
2. Simplified Tax Structure for Liquor
- New excise duty structure for IMFL (Indian Made Foreign Liquor):
- ₹310 per LPL + 75% of the factory price for liquor priced up to ₹1,000.
- ₹370 per LPL + 75% of the factory price for liquor priced above ₹1,000.
- Beer taxation:
- Mild Beer: 185% excise duty on the brewery price.
- Strong Beer: 200% excise duty.
- Retailers will get a fixed margin of 27% to ensure fair pricing.
3. Price Regulation for Country Liquor
- Excise duty for Desi Daru (Country Liquor) and RML will be linked to the issue price (EDP):
- 40 UP liquor: 165% excise duty
- 50 UP liquor: 151% excise duty
- 60 UP liquor: 115% excise duty
- RML: 185% excise duty
- Price increase of ₹5 per 180ml nip in the Minimum Selling Price (MSP) and Maximum Retail Price (MRP).
4. New Rules for Bars and Liquor Manufacturing
- Bars will now be allowed at airports, making it easier for travelers.
- Hotels must have at least 10 rooms to qualify for a bar license.
- Liquor manufacturers and suppliers can set up wholesale liquor bonds outside their main premises.
- Excise permits and licenses will be auto-approved online to speed up business operations.
- To boost ethanol production, the government has reduced licensing fees to ₹5-8 lakh per year.
5. Stricter Rules on Liquor Consumption and Illicit Alcohol
- No liquor sales to minors; strict penalties for violations.
- No public drinking—penalties will be imposed for alcohol consumption in public places.
- All liquor bottles and shop signboards must carry clear health warnings.
- The government will form joint investigation teams with the police to prevent illegal liquor smuggling from neighboring states.
- A special committee will monitor excise and liquor-related crimes in border districts.
The Rajasthan Excise Policy 2025-29 focuses on simplifying the liquor trade, increasing state revenue, and ensuring responsible alcohol consumption. With transparent online systems, controlled price increases, and stricter enforcement against illicit liquor, the government aims to create a more efficient and accountable excise system.
