Excise Dept allots liquor shops for 2025-26, warns against illicit liquor to avoid health hazards
Ferozepur, March 31, 2025: The allotment of liquor shops for the financial year 2025-26 in Ferozepur district has been completed through an online tendering system. Assistant Commissioner of Excise, Randhir Singh, stated that the district has been divided into three excise groups, with all contracts allotted digitally.
The Ferozepur City Liquor Group has been awarded to Ferozepur Liquor Firm for ₹59.22 crore, the Ferozepur Rural (CAT) Group to Universal Liquor for ₹55.55 crore, and the Jhirak-Jhugian Group for ₹52.52 crore. The total excise revenue for the district has been set at ₹167.31 crore, reflecting an increase of ₹29.55 crore from last year.
Authorities also highlighted strict enforcement measures taken against illicit liquor trade. Last year, the Excise Department, in collaboration with the police, seized 9,18,695 liters of liquor, 9,657 liters of illicit liquor, 3,349 bottles of English liquor, 3,436 bottles of beer, and 103 bottles of country liquor. A total of 97 cases were registered under the Excise Act.
Excise officials assured that the Punjab government is committed to strengthening revenue collection under the leadership of Excise Commissioner Varun Rujam. Deputy Commissioner Excise, Pawanjit Singh, reported a 21.50% increase in revenue during this year’s allotment process. Excise Officer Rajneesh Batra confirmed that Ferozepur district has 222 licensed liquor vends, and each contractor has the option to open a model shop or beer shop under the excise policy.
As a public advisory, officials have urged residents to purchase liquor only from authorized shops to avoid health hazards linked to illicit alcohol. The administration has warned against consuming illegal or illicit liquor, which can be fatal. Authorities emphasized strict action against violators and encouraged public cooperation in ensuring compliance with legal provisions.