Liquor prices to remain unchanged in Punjab; Cabinet announces relief for industry, farmers and COVID volunteers

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): The Punjab government has approved a new excise policy under which liquor prices will not be increased this year, providing relief to consumers. After the cabinet meeting, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said the new policy aims to further boost government revenue. Along with the excise policy, several important decisions were taken regarding industrial relief, farmer compensation and health sector recruitment.

Revenue target raised under new excise policy

The minister said that when the present government took office in 2022–23, excise revenue stood at about ₹6,200 crore, which has now increased to around ₹11,200 crore due to improved systems. A new revenue target of ₹12,800 crore has been set for the coming financial year. Liquor contractors will be allowed to renew their licences by paying an additional 6.5 percent. Approval has also been given to set up single malt production units in the state, while earlier only bottling was permitted. The quota of country liquor has also been increased by three percent.

Relief measures for industries and farmers

The cabinet has decided to extend the One Time Settlement scheme of the Punjab Small Industries and Export Corporation to support industries. The scheme, which was earlier valid till February 13, 2025, has now been extended till June 30, 2026.

The government has also addressed the issue of flood compensation for farmers cultivating government land. Farmers working on about 5,200 acres in Ferozepur, 3,000 acres in Fazilka and 2,800 acres in Amritsar had faced problems in getting compensation because the land was recorded in the government’s name. Now, local committees including sarpanches, panchs or patwaris will verify the actual cultivators so that compensation can be paid directly.

Benefits for COVID volunteers and health sector recruitment

Volunteers from the nursing and paramedical sectors who worked during the COVID period will be given preference in future government recruitments. Those who served for less than one year will receive five additional marks, while those who worked for more than a year will receive ten additional marks.

Approval has also been given to recruit 361 Group C nursing staff to strengthen health services. In addition, two key posts will be filled in the Economic Policy and Planning Board to improve the implementation of development programmes.