Himachal Earns Rs 90 Crore from Milk Cess on Liquor, to Boost Milk Sector

The Himachal Pradesh government has earned a substantial amount of Rs 90.78 crore from the milk cess imposed on liquor bottles. This revenue collection is a result of the state government's decision to levy a cess of Rs 10 per bottle on liquor, with the aim of utilizing the funds for the betterment of the milk sector and supporting milk producers.

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Milk Cess Revenue to Reach Rs 100 Crore

As per the information shared by Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan during the Question Hour in the Vidhan Sabha, the state government has already collected Rs 90.78 crore from the milk cess on liquor up until January 31, 2024. It is anticipated that the total revenue from this cess could reach the Rs 100 crore mark in the near future.

Funds to Boost Milk Producers' Income and Infrastructure

The revenue generated from the milk cess will be strategically utilized to enhance the income of milk producers and strengthen the infrastructure of the milk sector in Himachal Pradesh. This initiative demonstrates the state government's commitment to supporting the dairy industry and ensuring the welfare of milk producers.

Increased Revenue from Liquor Auction

In addition to the milk cess revenue, the state government has also witnessed a significant increase in income from the auction of liquor vends. Through the Auction-cum-Tenders process, the government allotted liquor vends for the year 2023-24. The reserve price for these vends was set at Rs 1,446 crore, but the actual auction amount reached an impressive Rs 1,815 crore. This represents a substantial 40% increase compared to the previous year, 2022-23.

Excise Revenue and Overall Tax Collection

The new excise policy implemented by the state government has resulted in a notable increase in excise revenue. As of January 31, 2024, the government has collected Rs 2,187 crore in excise revenue, against a target of Rs 2,350.81 crore. Furthermore, the total tax collection by the state Excise and Taxation department during the financial year 2023-24 has reached Rs 8,533.17 crore up until the end of January.

Stipend for Ayurvedic College Students

In response to a question raised by Satpal Singh Satti (BJP), Ayush Minister Yadevendra Goma informed the house that students admitted to government Ayurvedic colleges through the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) are provided a stipend of Rs 10,000 during their internship.

Government's Commitment to Compassionate Job Appointments

Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan assured the assembly that the government is dedicated to providing jobs on compassionate grounds to all eligible individuals. A Cabinet Sub-committee has been formed to address any complexities in the process, and the committee's report is expected to be submitted soon. The government is actively collecting information on compassionate job appointments and will make it available as soon as the data is compiled.