Delhi Government Revises Excise Rules, Boosting Churches and Industries
The Delhi government has implemented significant amendments to the Delhi Excise Rules, 2010. These changes provide substantial benefits to religious institutions and industrial units across the capital.
Major Increase in Sacramental Wine Allowance for Churches
Under the revised Rule 20, the Bishop of Delhi now receives permission to purchase or import up to 4,000 litres of duty-free sacramental wine each year. This represents a dramatic increase from the previous limit of just 91 litres.
The wine can be obtained through one or multiple permits from authorized distilleries anywhere in India. All transactions require approval from the Excise Commissioner. This change directly supports churches in conducting religious ceremonies without supply constraints.
The Finance Department's notification clearly states the amendment. It replaces the old provision with new language specifying the increased annual limit and the import option.
Industrial Units Gain Higher Storage Limits for Special Spirit
Beyond religious institutions, various industries also benefit from the rule revisions. The government has substantially raised storage and possession limits for special denatured spirit.
Licensed premises under Form P-6 can now store up to 15,000 kilolitres of this spirit at any given time. This marks a significant jump from the previous ceiling of 6,744 kilolitres.
Additionally, permit holders see their annual authorized possession limit increase from 64,000 kilolitres to 120,000 kilolitres. Industries use special denatured spirit primarily as a solvent in manufacturing processes.
Legal Framework and Implementation Timeline
The Lieutenant Governor made these rules using powers granted under the Delhi Excise Act, 2009. The official notification designates them as the Delhi Excise (Amendment) Rules, 2025.
These amendments take effect immediately upon publication in the official gazette. The government issued the notification on Monday, setting the changes in motion.
This revision demonstrates the administration's responsiveness to practical needs. Both religious communities and industrial operators gain operational flexibility through these updated regulations.
