Jharkhand gears up for new excise policy rollout

Jharkhand Excise Minister Yogendra Prasad held a high-level meeting with the excise department on Tuesday to review preparations for the implementation of the new liquor policy, set to take effect on September 1, 2025. The meeting focused on finalising rollout strategies and addressing the recurring issue of liquor being sold above the maximum retail price at licensed outlets.

The Jharkhand Excise (Settlement and Operation of Shops for Retail Sale of Liquor) Rules, 2025, approved by the state cabinet in May, will enable private players to operate retail liquor shops across the state. Officials were instructed to complete all necessary preparations before the deadline to ensure a smooth launch.

To address consumer complaints about overpricing, the minister directed strict enforcement and intensified monitoring across retail outlets. Excise officials were instructed to take immediate action against any vendor found charging more than the listed price. Specific instances of shopkeepers demanding extra money were flagged for action.

The excise department aims to enhance transparency and ensure fair pricing for consumers as part of the new policy’s implementation.