Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Approves New Excise Policy For FY 2025-26

Lucknow, February 6 (TNA) The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has approved the new excise policy for the financial year 2025-26, introducing significant changes in the liquor licensing system. Under the new policy, all liquor shops in the state will now be allocated exclusively through an e-lottery system.

Excise Minister Nitin Agarwal announced the decision on Thursday during a press conference, following a cabinet meeting held on Wednesday evening.

A key provision of the new policy is that a single applicant will not be allowed to own more than two liquor shops. The e-lottery system will be used for allocating country liquor shops, composite liquor shops, model shops, and cannabis shops. Additionally, applicants will only get one chance to apply in the lottery process.

The new policy aims to ensure transparency and fairness in liquor licensing across the state. Authorities expect this move to curb monopolization and enhance revenue collection.