In a major fiscal move, the Maharashtra government under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has unveiled a revamped liquor policy aimed at generating an additional ₹14,000 crore in annual revenue. The cabinet approved significant hikes in excise duties and introduced new regulatory measures, signaling a strategic push to strengthen state finances and streamline the liquor market.The new policy increases excise duties on Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) to 4.5 times the manufacturing cost, up from the previous rate of three times, with a ceiling of ₹260 per bulk litre. Duties on country liquor have also been raised from ₹180 to ₹205 per proof litre.
Revised minimum retail prices for 180 ml bottles have also been notified:
Country liquor: ₹80
Maharashtra Made Liquor (MML): ₹148
IMFL: ₹205
Premium foreign liquor: ₹360
A notable highlight of the new policy is the introduction of Maharashtra Made Liquor (MML), a new category of grain-based spirits produced exclusively by local manufacturers.The Chief Minister’s Office stated that these reforms follow an extensive review of excise policies in other states, focusing on tax structures, licensing efficiency, and anti-evasion measures. The goal is not only to boost revenue but also to curb illicit trade and promote a more transparent liquor market.(Edited by : Ajay Vaishnav)First Published: Jun 10, 2025 7:29 PM IST
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