Lucknow: UP excise minister Nitin Agarwal on Monday shared details of the record revenue earned by the excise department in the financial year 2025–26.Addressing a press conference in Lucknow, he said the department generated revenue of Rs 57,722.26 crore in 2025-26, which is the highest annual revenue so far. This is Rs 5,149.19 crore (9.79%) higher than Rs 52,573.07 crore collected in the previous financial year 2024-25.Agarwal mentioned that the production, consumption, and export of molasses in the state have been excellent, and there has also been a continuous increase in ethanol (power alcohol) production. Up to Feb in 2025–26, a total of 2,083.8 million litres of power alcohol was produced, indicating significant progress compared to previous years. This has not only accelerated industrial development but also contributed substantially to revenue growth.He further said for the financial year 2026-27, the renewal of retail liquor and beer shops has been carried out, along with transparent allocation through an e-lottery system. In the first phase, 25,613 shops were renewed, while 811 shops were allotted through the lottery, and the process for the remaining shops is ongoing.To promote industrial investment, the department has signed MoUs with investors, ensuring large-scale investment and job creation. Additionally, the establishment of new distilleries, breweries, and winery units is in progress, which will further strengthen the industry.The minister said strict enforcement action has been taken against the manufacture, sale, and smuggling of illegal liquor. In the financial year 2025-26 (up to March), a total of 109,077 cases were registered, 2.808 million litres of illegal liquor were seized, and 19,935 individuals arrested. He added that the department has implemented the Integrated Excise Supply Chain Management System to ensure transparency and protect revenue. Through this, all processes related to licensing, permits, supply chain, and monitoring have been made online. Additionally, monitoring of liquor sales and transportation is being ensured through GPS-based tracking, digital locks, CCTV, QR codes, and POS machines.Agarwal said that a revenue target of Rs 71,278 crore has been set for the financial year 2026-27.
