UP approves new excise policy for next fiscal

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has greenlit a new excise policy for the upcoming fiscal year, effective from April 1, 2024. As part of the policy changes, the excise duty on country-made liquor will witness a Rs 5 increase starting from the specified date. This decision, sanctioned by the state cabinet on December 19, is anticipated to impact the prices of country-made liquor.

According to reports, the excise duty on beer and Indian-made foreign liquor will remain consistent with the ongoing financial year. Nevertheless, there is an expected 10 percent rise in license fees for all retailers. Notably, the prices of beer, whisky, vodka, rum, and wine are projected to experience minimal alterations.

In a further development, the Cabinet has granted approval to amend the Uttar Pradesh Winery Rules. The amendment includes the categorization of three types of wine—cider made from white grapes, shelly made from apple, and perry made from pear.

State Excise Minister Nitin Agrawal highlighted the establishment of two wine plants in Muzaffarnagar and Meerut, expressing the government's hope for increased interest from various players in the production of fruit-based wines.