Bhubaneswar, Sept 20: Odisha Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan on Saturday informed the State Assembly that the government has granted approval for reopening 70 liquor shops across the state. These outlets, which had remained closed until December 12, 2024, will now resume operations, marking an important move towards strengthening the state’s excise management and revenue generation.

In a written reply to a query raised by Patna (ST) MLA Akhila Chandra Naik, the minister clarified that permission was given for reopening shops located in areas where liquor sales were previously restricted. The decision is expected to streamline supply, regulate sales, and curb illegal liquor trade in these regions.

Harichandan further revealed that the Excise Department is reviewing proposals for four new licensed liquor shops — three in Puri and one in Bhubaneswar. Alongside this, the department is considering applications for setting up three new liquor manufacturing units, including bottling, distillery, and brewery facilities. These proposed units are planned in Cuttack (one) and Dhenkanal (two).

The minister emphasized that such steps are aimed at ensuring regulated trade, enhanced revenue, and stricter monitoring of the excise sector.

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