Liquor Auction in Solan Nets ₹135.42 Crore, Generating Profit of ₹3.36 Crore
Solan, March 21: In a significant development, the auction of nine excise units in the district of Solan for the financial year 2025-26 has been completed successfully, generating a total revenue of ₹135.42 crore. This auction, which took place on March 20, 2025, marks a substantial financial achievement for the region. The process was overseen by the District’s State Tax and Excise Department, led by Deputy Commissioner Shilpa Kapil.
Shilpa Kapil confirmed that the auction included 147 retail liquor shops spread across the nine excise units in Solan. The reserve price for the nine excise units had been set at ₹132.05 crore, and the final bids exceeded this amount, culminating in a total sale of ₹135.42 crore, resulting in a profit of ₹3.36 crore.
The auction was conducted under the chairmanship of Solan’s Presiding Officer and Deputy Commissioner, Manmohan Sharma. Key officials involved in the process included Vivek Kumar, Collector Excise and Additional Commissioner of State Tax & Excise (South Zone), Himachal Pradesh; Avinash Chauhan, Assistant Commissioner of State Tax & Excise from District Sirmaur (Supervisor); and Shilpa Kapil herself, who is the Deputy Commissioner of State Tax and Excise for Solan.
Boost for Revenue Generation
This auction process is part of the ongoing efforts by the Himachal Pradesh government to regulate and generate revenue from the liquor trade in the state. By auctioning excise units, the government aims to ensure that the distribution and sale of liquor is managed efficiently, while also boosting the state’s financial resources.
The outcome of the auction is expected to significantly contribute to the local economy, particularly in Solan, which is known for its role in the state’s excise revenue generation. The profit of ₹3.36 crore is an indication of the healthy interest in these excise units and could potentially provide a boost to other sectors reliant on the state’s excise policy.
Strengthening the Excise System
This auction is an important step towards further strengthening the excise system in Himachal Pradesh. The excise units sold in the auction will now be operated under new agreements, and retail liquor shops will continue to serve consumers across the district. The auction process ensures transparency and accountability in the management of liquor distribution, with the financial success highlighting the strong demand and consistent revenue generation from the liquor trade.
The successful completion of this auction also reflects the effective governance of the State Tax and Excise Department and the commitment of local officials in achieving optimal financial outcomes. With a reserve price that was slightly exceeded, the process is also seen as an indicator of the positive market conditions for excise-related businesses in Himachal Pradesh.
Looking Forward to Continued Success
The outcome of this auction not only contributes to the fiscal strength of the district but also sets a precedent for future auctions. Officials are hopeful that the success of this process will encourage more bidders in subsequent rounds, generating consistent revenues for the state. With the continued development of the excise system in Himachal Pradesh, the state government aims to further streamline operations and maximize economic benefits.
As the financial year progresses, the revenue generated from such auctions will likely play a key role in funding essential public welfare projects and supporting the development of infrastructure within the region.
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