Chandigarh: The Punjab government has approved a new excise policy aimed at generating ₹12,800 crore in revenue while ensuring that alcohol prices remain unchanged. Alongside, the government announced measures to strengthen the health sector, economic planning, and law enforcement.
The government also announced special weightage for COVID-19 volunteers in nursing recruitment and approval of 361 new staff nurse posts, emphasizing public welfare and institutional strengthening.
Special Weightage for COVID-19 Volunteers in Nursing Recruitment
Punjab has decided to reward volunteers who served during the COVID-19 pandemic by giving them extra marks in nursing and paramedical recruitment:
- Volunteers with less than one year of service will receive 5 extra points
- Volunteers with more than one year of service will receive 10 extra points
These points will provide priority in future recruitment processes, ensuring recognition for their contribution to public health during the pandemic.
Additionally, the government has approved 361 new staff nurse positions in Group-C, which will help address staff shortages in hospitals and improve healthcare services across the state.
Read also: Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Launches ‘Meri Rasoi’ Scheme to Provide Food Kits to 40 Lakh Families
Strengthening Economic Planning
The Punjab government has decided to expand the Economic Policy and Planning Board under the Department of Planning. The number of non-governmental experts has been increased from three to five, and new appointments will be made soon.
The Chief Minister serves as the Chairman, and the Finance Minister is the Vice-Chairman. The government believes that the addition of experts will improve policy implementation and support the state’s economic growth initiatives.
Tough Measures Against Crime and Drug Trafficking
Punjab has enhanced rewards for capturing gangsters, economic offenders, and drug traffickers to strengthen law enforcement:
- SSP level: ₹1 lakh
- IG/DIG level: ₹1.5 lakh
- ADGP level: ₹2 lakh
- DGP level: ₹2 lakh or more
The move is expected to accelerate police and intelligence operations and curb organized crime and drug-related activities.
New Excise Policy and Revenue Growth
The new excise policy has already shown results, with Punjab’s revenue from alcohol projected to reach ₹12,800 crore for 2026-27, a 50% increase over previous years.
- Fiscal year 2022-23 revenue: ~₹6,200 crore
- FY 2025-26 revenue: ₹11,200 crore
The policy introduces:
- 6.5% renewal option for existing license holders
- E-tendering process for non-renewals
- First-time rules for malt manufacturing and single malt production, allowing distilling and production within Punjab, boosting investment and employment
The licensing process has been made more transparent and technology-driven to reduce human intervention and curb corruption.
Crackdown on Illegal Liquor
Punjab has intensified action against illegal alcohol:
- 4,006 FIRs registered
- 432 arrests
- 455 vehicles seized
- 2,628 raids conducted
- 1,76,552 bottles of illegal liquor seized
- 82,990 liters of ethanol and 6,794 liters of illicit liquor confiscated
- 304 illegal distilleries shut down
The government claims these measures have curbed illegal operations and directly benefited the state treasury. Additionally, properties and licenses issued by previous governments are under investigation, with crores of rupees’ worth of assets attached.
Budget Session and Future Plans
The Punjab Assembly Budget Session will be held from 6 March to 16 March, during which the government will present plans and initiatives for the upcoming financial year. The administration asserts that its transparent policies, strict enforcement, and administrative reforms have significantly increased revenue and established effective control over crime and illegal activities in the state.
