the goan I network
PANAJI
The restrictions on liquor trade, which were imposed during the model code of conduct, and a few other factors have resulted in a Rs 4 crore decline in excise collections in the month of April 2019 as compared to
April 2018.
Reliable sources informed that the State Government earned Rs 21 crore from excise in April 2019, which was Rs 4 crore less than Rs 25 crore excise collections in April 2018.
When model code of conduct was in force, bars and restaurants were not allowed to serve liquor after 11 pm even if they had a license to do so. This was to maintain decorum in the wake of general elections, which happened in Goa on April
23.
Due to such restrictions, the late night party scene was affected and there was a decline in the number of tourists visiting the State as well. Even otherwise, fewer people chose to travel in April as general elections were happening in several parts of the
country.
As a result, the sale of alcohol declined in April, which affected April’s excise collections also. Historically, excise revenue in April tends to be lower compared to other months.
This is because bars, restaurants and liquor shops have to renew their licenses in April for the new financial year. Similarly, labels have to be registered in April
as well.
Due to this, liquor trade is slow in April every year and 2019 was no different. The only difference was restrictions on liquor business due to model code of conduct this time.
Sources further informed that the government earned Rs 60.5 crore from excise
in March 2019, which was more or less at par with Rs 59 crore excise collections in March 2018.
