Lucknow’s groundbreaking excise policy has not only skyrocketed Uttar Pradesh’s revenue but is now serving as a blueprint for the nation. Officials from over half a dozen states, including Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, Jharkhand, and Himachal Pradesh, have flocked to UP to study its success.
The policy’s genius lies in its blend of transparency, tech innovation, and ironclad controls on illicit liquor. This multifaceted approach has propelled UP into the league of top revenue-generating states for excise duties. Excise Commissioner Adarsh Singh revealed that delegations from various states visited over the past two years, engaging in deep dives with UP officials on policy formulation, e-governance, licensing, and surveillance systems.
Visitors inspected distilleries and liquor shops, marveling at the digital tracking, e-lottery for shop allotments, barcoding, and stock management. ‘These measures have curbed corruption and boosted revenues significantly,’ one official noted. States like Karnataka and Maharashtra praised the practical, revenue-focused model and are contemplating similar reforms.
What started as a state initiative is echoing nationwide, proving that visionary governance can transform challenges into opportunities. UP’s excise framework isn’t just about numbers; it’s a model of efficient, ethical administration that others aspire to emulate.