Chandigarh Administration to Auction 14 Leftover Liquor Vends on March 25
The Chandigarh Administration is set to conduct an e-auction for 14 remaining liquor vends on March 25, as part of the Excise Policy 2026-27. This follows a recent auction where 83 out of 97 vends were successfully allotted, generating significant revenue for the Union Territory.
Revenue and Bidding Highlights from Previous Auction
On March 19, the UT Excise and Taxation Department auctioned 83 liquor vends, collecting a total of Rs 496.81 crore in licence fees against a reserve price of Rs 385.24 crore. Additionally, Rs 3.90 crore was earned as participation fees. The auction saw competitive bidding, with the highest bid of Rs 16.71 crore received for a vend in Palsora village, surpassing its reserve price of Rs 11.41 crore.
Other notable bids included Rs 12.27 crore for a vend in Dhanas against a reserve of Rs 9.62 crore, and Rs 11.52 crore for a vend in Sector 61 against a reserve of Rs 8.21 crore. Interestingly, the Palsora vend also attracted the highest bid last year, at Rs 14 crore against a reserve of Rs 10.22 crore, indicating consistent high demand in that area.
Details of the Upcoming Auction
The department has initiated the tendering process for the e-auction of the 14 leftover vends scheduled for March 25. Officials emphasize that this auction aims to complete the allotment process under the new excise framework, ensuring all vends are operational for the fiscal year.
Features of the New Excise Policy
The Excise Policy 2026-27 is designed to enhance transparency and boost revenue through technological integration. Key features include:
- Re-introduction of liquor licences for departmental stores.
- Procurement of liquor by bar licensees from the two nearest vends.
- Increased security deposits for retail vends.
- Mandatory installation of GPS systems in liquor transport vehicles.
These measures are expected to streamline operations, reduce malpractices, and increase government earnings from the liquor sector.
Impact on Revenue and Governance
The successful auction of 83 vends has already contributed substantially to Chandigarh's revenue, with the upcoming auction poised to add further funds. The policy's focus on e-auctions and technology aims to eliminate corruption and ensure a fair bidding process, aligning with broader governance reforms in the UT.
Officials state that the new excise regulations will not only maximize revenue but also promote responsible liquor distribution and consumption across Chandigarh.
