Remarkable Growth in Punjab’s Excise Revenue under AAP-led Government: Finance Minister Cheema

Punjab Excise Revenue Surpasses Rs 10,200 Crore Mark Under AAP-Led Government

In a significant milestone for the state of Punjab, Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema announced on Saturday that the excise revenue has seen unprecedented growth under the leadership of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led government. The revenue has surged from Rs 6,254 crore in 2022-23 to over Rs 10,200 crore in 2024-25, marking a remarkable achievement for the state.

This growth in excise revenue is attributed to the success of the Excise Policies implemented since the AAP government assumed office in 2022. Minister Cheema highlighted that for the first time in Punjab’s history, the excise revenue is set to surpass the five-digit mark, with the target of Rs 10,145 crore for the current financial year likely to be exceeded.

Speaking at a press conference, Finance Minister Cheema commended the Excise Department for its achievements and the success of the tendering process. He revealed that the ongoing e-tender process for the allotment of retail liquor licenses for the fiscal year 2025-26 has received an overwhelming response.

As of March 20, 179 out of 207 retail liquor groups have been successfully allotted, fetching a discovered price of Rs 8,681 crore along with an additional Rs 871 crore as premium against the reserved price. This strong response indicates the department’s potential to surpass the ambitious target of Rs 11,020 crore for the upcoming fiscal year 2025-26, potentially reaching approximately Rs 11,800 crore.

Finance Minister Cheema emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency, efficiency, and progressive policies, stating that the growth in excise revenue is a testament to the success of the excise policies. The state’s excise revenue reaching unprecedented heights is a reflection of the government’s dedication to driving economic growth and development in Punjab.