Chandigarh Auctions All 97 Liquor Vends, Records Rs 563.78 Crore in Bids
Chandigarh's Excise Department successfully auctioned all 97 retail liquor vends for the 2026-27 policy year, generating record bids totaling Rs 563.78 crore, about 24.4% above the reserve price of Rs 453 crore. This marks the first full allotment in a decade, reversing previous years' challenges including unsold vends and legal scrutiny. Revenue collections reached Rs 199.78 crore by May 31, nearly 20% of the Rs 1,000 crore annual target. Authorities credit improved policy measures, enforcement, and compliance for this performance.