Government Decision Announced

Odisha has taken a significant step by deciding to reopen 70 previously locked liquor shops that had remained closed for extended periods across various districts. The announcement was made in the Assembly session by Prithviraj Harichandan, Excise Minister, in response to a query raised by MLA Akhil Chandra Nayak.

Modernisation and Revenue Focus

The state government aims to modernise the liquor trade and boost excise revenue through this initiative. In addition to reopening old outlets, proposals for four new premium liquor shops and three new liquor manufacturing units have been received by the Excise Department.

District-Wise Reopening Plan

The reopening of liquor shops is planned as follows:

• Balasore: 17 shops (highest)

• Ganjam: 10 shops

• Nayagarh: 9 shops

• Mayurbhanj: 8 shops

• Cuttack: 7 shops

• Rourkela: 5 shops

• Brahmapur: 4 shops

• Kendujhar: 3 shops

• Kandhamal: 3 shops

• Balangir: 2 shops

• Malkangiri & Sambalpur: 1 shop each

Proposals for New Outlets and Breweries

The Excise Department has received proposals for:

• Four new premium liquor outlets: Three in Puri, one in Bhubaneswar

• Three new liquor manufacturing units: Two in Dhenkanal, one in Cuttack

These proposals are under review, and approvals are expected once compliance with regulations and local administrative protocols is ensured.

Policy Implications and Public Reaction

The government expects this move to increase state revenue and allow better regulation of the liquor trade. At the same time, public health and social impacts remain a sensitive topic. The Excise Department has assured that all reopened and new outlets will be strictly regulated.

Excise Minister Harichandan highlighted that this step is also part of the state’s strategy to curb illegal liquor sales, ensuring that alcohol trade remains legal, controlled, and monitored.

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