In a bid to increase state revenue and address consumer complaints, the Uttarakhand government has announced a series of measures across key departments. Following directives from Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the Excise Department will now conduct lab testing of locally produced liquor to curb adulteration and restore consumer confidence.
Excise, the state’s second-largest source of revenue after GST, had achieved only 31 per cent of its Rs 5,060 crore target in the first four months of the financial year 2025-26. Officials now estimate collections at around Rs 4,800 crore. Similarly, GST targets of Rs 11,221 crore face challenges following recent rate reductions, prompting sector-wise allocation of collection targets.
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The Forest Department will explore new revenue streams, including leasing forest areas to private partners for mining, medicinal herb assessments through specialist agencies, eco-tourism development, and resin extraction. Mining revenue is projected to exceed its Rs 950 crore target, with Rs 1,150 crore now expected this year.
The Transport Department also hopes for improved collections, with vehicle sales boosting prospects against a Rs 1,504 crore target, while the Energy Department has been urged to accelerate the collection of tax and non-tax revenue to meet its Rs 1,100 crore goal.
Chief Minister Dhami emphasised that “continuous and planned efforts are being made to expand revenue resources, ensuring funds for state expenses, particularly development works, while departments are tasked to explore new income sources.”