Odisha's New Excise Policy Endorses Tetra Pack Liquor Sales
Odisha's 2026-29 Excise Policy allows liquor sales in tetra packs. Excise Minister Harichandan highlights priority on regulation to prevent illegal sales. Tetra packs, permitted since 2014 but unused, require certification and explicitly marked shelf life. The decision faces opposition, labeled 'unethical' and 'anti-youth'.
- Country:
- India
The Odisha government, under its new Excise Policy for 2026-29, has sanctioned the sale of liquor in tetra packs, according to Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan. In a press briefing, Harichandan noted that while this packaging method has been included since 2014, it is yet to reach Odisha's market.
Harichandan clarified that licensed liquor manufacturers and vendors are now free to utilize tetra packs for selling their products, with the administration focusing on regulating the manufacturing and sale of alcohol. Regulatory measures ensure legal sales, the minister emphasized, dismissing concerns over unlawful selling.
The revised policy, effective from April 1, specifies that India-made foreign liquor can be packaged in 180 ml tetra packs or glass bottles of designated sizes. Each tetra pack must feature six protective layers and have clearly indicated consumption dates. Opposition leaders argue against the decision, criticizing it as 'unethical' and potentially harmful to youth.
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