Punjab to upgrade liquor tracking system

The Punjab excise department is set to revamp its liquor track and trace system following concerns over smuggling and system loopholes, stated media reports. The current QR code-based mechanism has proven inadequate, with reports of tampering and bypassing by bootleggers.

To address this, the department has asked the Punjab Infrastructure Development Board (PIDB) to initiate the process of appointing a new vendor for a more secure, end-to-end tracking system. PIDB held a meeting on Monday to discuss vendor selection.

A senior official said the updated system will use advanced technologies to enhance bottle-level traceability, improve security, and reduce manual intervention. While a mobile app allows consumers to scan QR codes for product details, excise officials noted widespread issues with missing or manipulated codes. These loopholes have led to significant revenue losses and increased interstate smuggling.

PIDB will also appoint a transaction advisor to oversee project development. Punjab currently oversees 15 distilleries, 30 bottling plants, and four breweries, with a sizeable volume of liquor exported outside the state.