Odisha govt enacts new excise policy, halts new off-shop approvals

Bhubaneswar, Aug 31: The Mohan Majhi government has introduced a new excise policy for the 2024-25 fiscal year, effective from September 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, or until a new policy is enacted.

In line with the BJP’s pledge to create a ‘Nisha Mukt’ (addiction-free) Odisha, the government has decided not to approve any new off-shops for the current fiscal year. Additionally, no new liquor on-shops will be allowed in villages, although they will be permitted in 3-star and higher-rated hotels.

The policy specifies that 57 on-shops, whose licenses were not renewed previously, will not have their licenses reconsidered this year. Moreover, the minimum guarantee quota (MGQ) will not be increased this fiscal year, breaking the tradition of annual increases.

The new policy prohibits dance performances in bars but allows for musical performances. According to the policy, “No dance performances shall be permitted within any on-shop premises; however, musical performances or orchestras may be hosted within licensed establishments.”

It also mentions that on-shop licenses may be granted to OTDC/ITDC hotels at half the usual license fee, depending on location. However, this concession will not apply to OTDC/ITDC hotels leased to private individuals.

To boost tourism, the government will allow liquor to be served at beach shacks and will issue temporary liquor sale licenses to OTDC at eco-retreat venues at a promotional rate. The approval of the Tourism Department will determine the locations and number of beach shacks permitted to serve alcohol.

The policy includes provisions for a dedicated fund to support prohibition and de-addiction campaigns across the state. Efforts to combat the production and sale of spurious and illegal liquor will be intensified, and a new excise center will be established in the capital to train employees, with vacant positions also being filled.