Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Dec 19: The Karnataka state excise department has recorded a significant increase in revenue during the current financial year. While there had been a slight decline earlier in beer and hot drinks sales, the profit margins have now risen sharply. According to information shared by the excise department, a total revenue of Rs 24,287 crore has been collected from the sale of hot drinks and beer up to the end of November in this financial year.

Sources in the excise department said that with New Year celebrations and the Christmas festival approaching, liquor sales are expected to rise further, leading to a substantial increase in revenue by the end of the year.

In the ongoing 2025–26 financial year, revenue from hot drinks sales alone stood at Rs 20,614.08 crore up to the end of November, while beer sales contributed Rs 3,673.75 crore. This takes the total revenue to Rs 24,287 crore, marking a significant increase compared to the previous year. In the 2024–25 financial year, revenue from hot drinks amounted to Rs 5,783.58 crore, while beer sales generated Rs 34,636.11 crore. Notably, the current year has witnessed record-level revenue collection within the first eight months itself.

With the festive season of Christmas and New Year setting in, liquor sales are expected to surge sharply in December. Based on previous years’ trends, sales usually rise during December and January. In this backdrop, the government is confident of collecting additional revenue. The excise department has tightened monitoring of liquor sales and is taking steps to prevent illegal sales.

Excise revenue continues to play a crucial role in strengthening the state’s economy. The income generated is being utilised for guarantee schemes and various development works. However, criticism has also emerged over the rise in liquor sales, with concerns that it is contributing to social problems. Issues such as health damage due to alcohol consumption and increasing family disputes have become matters of concern.

While some have welcomed the rise in government revenue, several organisations are also demanding liquor prohibition. Even though liquor sales are expected to rise during the New Year season, voices stressing the importance of social responsibility are also being heard.

The excise department has exceeded its revenue targets, providing a boost to the state’s financial budget. At the same time, discussions have begun on the social impact behind this growing revenue. With Christmas and New Year festivities already underway and celebrations gaining momentum, the excise department is likely to see its revenue rise by several more crores in the coming days.