In a bid to regulate the sale of liquor and enhance revenue collection, the Chhattisgarh state government has announced revised excise duty rates on both desi (country-made) and foreign liquor. Under the new rates, consumers will be required to pay varying amounts depending on the type and quantity of liquor purchased.
For desi liquor (both spiced and plain), the excise duty rates are set as follows:
- Rs. 80 per bottle for 1 liter
- Rs. 40 per half bottle
- Rs. 20 per quarter bottle
Similarly, for foreign liquor (spirits):
- Rs. 120 per 1000 ml bottle
- Rs. 80 per 767 ml bottle
- Rs. 40 per 383 ml bottle
- Rs. 40 per 246 ml bottle
- Rs. 20 per 191 ml bottle
- Rs. 20 per 142 ml bottle
Moreover, to ensure transparency and monitor the sale of liquor, the Excise Department has mandated that each customer can purchase only one bottle of desi or foreign liquor, or two half-bottles (adhies), or four quarter bottles (pauva) at a time from liquor shops. Additionally, CCTV cameras will be installed at all desi, foreign, and premium liquor shops as per the requirement.
It's worth noting that the previous Congress government had also introduced similar excise duty rates during the 2022-23 fiscal year to combat the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the state government has confirmed that a total of 672 liquor shops will be operational in the upcoming financial year 2024-25, with provisions for premium liquor shops based on demand. The government has assured that no liquor shop will be closed during this period.