Dikhyaa Mohanty 
The state Excise Department is sending three teams of top officials to examine the excise frameworks of Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu in advance of the implementation of Odisha’s new three-year liquor policy. The goal of the program is to reform the state’s alcohol laws, and it is anticipated to go into effect by mid- to late July.
Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan announced Monday that the new strategy, which deviates from earlier ones that gave priority to revenue-driven development, will not permit the creation of any new liquor stores. The goal of the study visits is to learn more about the four states’ successful enforcement strategies, regulatory procedures, and public health initiatives.
The teams are expected to return by July 7–8, at which point the proposed policy will undergo final revisions. The updated framework aims to address persistent issues, including smuggling, illegal booze manufacturing, lax enforcement, and antiquated sanctions. Harichandan underlined that the new regulation will strengthen monitoring mechanisms, eliminate current loopholes, and impose harsher sanctions. The three-year strategy seeks to provide a uniform and long-lasting approach to liquor control in Odisha, as opposed to band-aid solutions.
