The Jammu and Kashmir government has generated approximately Rs 2,152 crore in revenue by auctioning liquor shop licences over the past two fiscal years, official data released on Sunday shows.
According to figures shared by officials, the Union Territory collected Rs 1,03,462.49 lakh in 2023–24 and Rs 1,11,816.07 lakh in 2024–25 through the e-auction of JKEL-2 liquor outlets.
The Jammu division contributed the lion’s share, with revenue totalling Rs 1,96,830.06 lakh over the two years, while the Kashmir region accounted for Rs 18,448.50 lakh.
Officials provided a district-wise breakdown, showing sustained growth in several key areas. In Jammu district, receipts increased from Rs 48,350.15 lakh to Rs 50,913.93 lakh between the two fiscal years. Udhampur and Kathua also posted higher revenues in 2024–25 compared with the previous year.
In the Kashmir Valley, Srinagar’s revenue rose from Rs 5,489.67 lakh to Rs 6,557.66 lakh, while Anantnag and Baramulla also recorded year-on-year increases.
In a written statement to the legislative assembly, the government said there is no proposal to
open new wine shops or issue fresh JKEL-2 licences in 2026–27, signalling a continued focus on maximising revenue from existing licenses.
Officials emphasised that all licences are allotted in accordance with the J&K Excise Act, 1958, and relevant excise policy guidelines.
Analysts say the strong auction revenues reflect both robust bidding interest and a broader strategy to boost the Union Territory’s finances following reforms in the excise regime. |
