Updated: Wednesday, 4 February 2026 |
Highlights
Liquor prices in Uttarakhand are likely to increase by 5–10% from April 1.
The hike is part of the state’s existing excise policy.
The move aims to boost and stabilize government revenue.
Dehradun (State Bureau):
With the start of the new financial year on April 1, liquor prices in Uttarakhand are set to increase by 5 to 10 percent. This hike is in line with the provisions of the state’s current excise policy, which has been framed for a period of three years.
According to the policy, liquor prices are revised upward every year by 5 to 10 percent. Based on this provision, fresh prices will be determined for the financial year 2026–27.
The excise department is among the highest revenue-generating departments in the state. For the current year, the government has set an excise revenue target of over ₹5,000 crore. To achieve this, a new excise policy was introduced, giving priority to long-term planning for the first time.
Under this policy, liquor shop licenses are being allotted for three years. This has allowed license holders to plan their businesses more effectively and has also reduced the need for repeated administrative procedures.
The policy also mandates a yearly increase in shop revenues. Under this system, revenue from English liquor shops will rise by four percent annually, while country liquor shops will see a two percent increase. In addition, other taxes are also proposed to be increased.
When translated into per-bottle pricing, these changes will result in an overall price hike of around 5 to 10 percent. The department’s objective is to ensure steady and predictable growth in excise revenue.
This arrangement has brought consistency in revenue collection and improved departmental monitoring of liquor shop allotments.
Liquor Still Being Sold at Higher Rates Despite Order Withdrawal
Last November, the excise department imposed VAT on excise duty, which led to an increase in liquor prices across the state. An official order was also issued in this regard. However, following a petition, the High Court put a stay on the decision.
After the court’s intervention, the department withdrew the order to increase prices. Despite this, liquor continues to be sold at higher rates at many excise shops.
Commenting on the issue, Excise Commissioner Anuradha Pal said,
“The policy provides for an annual increase in prices, and prices will rise accordingly. If complaints are received regarding liquor being sold at higher-than-approved rates, strict action will be taken.”
The Aabkari(Abkari) Times magazine occupies a unique niche in the Indian media landscape. As the only Hindi monthly magazine dedicated to alcohol, liquor, excise, and allied industries, it caters to a specific audience with a specialized knowledge base.
