- CM reviews Excise Department, orders GPS tracking for liquor transport, faster recruitment and technology-driven monitoring
Jharkhand News : Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Friday directed officials to intensify action against the illegal manufacture, storage, transportation, sale and smuggling of liquor across the state. Chairing a high-level review meeting of the Excise and Prohibition Department at the Jharkhand Ministry, he said illicit liquor not only causes significant revenue losses to the government but also poses a serious threat to public health and safety. He instructed officials to ensure swift and effective action against those involved in the illegal trade.
The meeting reviewed the department’s performance, revenue collection, enforcement measures and the progress of various schemes. Excise and Prohibition Minister Yogendra Prasad was also present.
Revenue exceeds target
Officials informed the Chief Minister that the department surpassed its revenue target of ₹3,885.11 crore in the financial year 2025-26, collecting ₹4,013.53 crore. For 2026-27, the state has set a revenue target of ₹4,500 crore. By mid-July 2026, the department had already collected ₹1,376 crore, achieving 30.57% of the annual target.
Technology-driven monitoring
Emphasising the use of modern technology, Soren directed officials to strengthen inspections and surveillance of excise operations. He ordered the installation of GPS tracking systems and digital (DG) locks in all liquor transport vehicles to enable real-time monitoring of routes, stoppages and destinations, enhancing transparency and curbing illegal activities.
Focus on local employment and recruitment
The Chief Minister instructed officials to give priority to local tribal communities in the construction of excise department warehouses across the state, saying it would create employment opportunities and strengthen the rural economy.
Reviewing vacancies in the department, Soren directed officials to expedite recruitment through the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC). He stressed that adequate and skilled manpower is essential for efficient implementation of departmental schemes, stronger enforcement and improved administrative functioning.
Officials informed the meeting that the appointment process for 583 excise constables selected through the JSSC is in its final stage.
New policy on industrial alcohol
The Chief Minister also directed officials to undertake a comprehensive study of spirit consumption in the state, including current and future demand, industrial usage and revenue potential. He asked the department to formulate a comprehensive policy for liquor manufacturing and a separate regulatory framework for industrial alcohol.
He further instructed officials to simplify the label registration process to ensure the availability of popular liquor brands in the state while maintaining transparency and regulatory compliance.
