Odisha Excise Policy allocates ₹100 crore for a public awareness campaign against alcohol and drug abuse, with strict restrictions on new liquor shops to curb substance availability.
Key Points
- ₹100-crore fund for anti-alcohol and drug awareness.
- No new liquor shops to be opened in rural areas.
- Licenses for 57 on-shops will remain non-renewed.
- Tourism sector to benefit from relaxed rules on liquor service in select areas.
₹100-Crore Fund for Awareness Campaign
The Odisha Excise Department has introduced a significant initiative by setting up a ₹100-crore fund. This is to educate the public about the harmful effects of alcohol consumption, drug use, and other narcotics. The campaign aims to reduce substance abuse across the state. A specialised agency will act to develop a multimedia campaign. The campaign will involve Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), civil society, NGOs, youth clubs, and volunteers. The goal is to create widespread awareness and promote healthier lifestyles. reportsrecords.com
Odisha Excise Policy for FY24 Announced
The Odisha government has announced its excise policy for the current financial year. The policy outlines several measures to regulate the sale and consumption of liquor in the state, with a focus on curbing alcohol abuse.
No new IMFL (Indian-made foreign liquor) off-shops or country liquor shops will open this year. Licenses for 57 on-shops that were not renewed earlier will remain closed. No new liquor on-shops will open in rural areas, except in three-star or above category hotels. Odisha Excise Policy.
Prohibition Promised by Opposition Party
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in its manifesto for this year’s Assembly polls, promised to implement prohibition if elected to power. The excise policy reflects a cautious approach to liquor sales and aims to balance public health concerns with regulatory needs. The policy emphasizes restricting the availability of liquor in rural areas. Focus on promoting awareness about the dangers of alcohol and drug use.
Tourism-Friendly Measures
Despite the restrictions, the policy includes measures to support tourism in the state. Certain allowances have made for hotels and beach shacks to serve liquor under specific conditions. On-shops may conduct musical performances or orchestras after obtaining necessary permission.
The Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) and India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) hotels will receive on-shop licenses at half the usual rates. Serving of liquor will be allowed in beach shacks to promote tourism.
