Rajasthan Excise Department Launches Liquor Vend Renewal Process for Financial Year 2026-27
The Rajasthan State Excise Department has officially commenced the renewal process for liquor vends across the state for the upcoming financial year 2026-27. This initiative encompasses a total of 7,665 shops statewide, marking a significant administrative step in regulating the alcohol retail sector.
Online Application Deadline and Fee Structure
Existing licence holders have been directed to submit their renewal applications exclusively through online channels. The deadline for submission is set for midnight on February 11. Along with the application, licensees must pay a prescribed fee, which varies based on the shop's minimum reserve price.
- For shops with a minimum reserve price of up to Rs 2 crore, the renewal application fee is fixed at Rs 60,000.
- Shops with a minimum reserve price exceeding Rs 2 crore are required to pay Rs 1.2 lakh.
An official from the department emphasized, "Applications submitted without exercising the renewal option will be rejected, and the deposited fee will be adjusted according to established rules."
Cluster-Based Renewal System and Security Deposit
The renewal process will be conducted under a cluster-based system. This approach ensures that all licence holders within a specific group or cluster are given the first opportunity to renew their respective shops. If some operators within a cluster choose not to renew, the remaining shop holders in the same cluster will be permitted to apply, thereby maintaining operational continuity and minimizing disruptions.
To streamline the procedure, the department has enabled online submission through the IEMS 2.0 module. Applicants can access this via SSO ID login under the dedicated 'Shop Renewal for 2026–27' section.
In addition to the application fee, licensees are mandated to deposit a security amount equivalent to 8% of the annual guarantee amount. This deposit must be completed by February 28, adding another layer of financial compliance to the renewal framework.
Implications for the Liquor Retail Sector
This renewal process is crucial for the stability and regulation of Rajasthan's liquor retail industry. By implementing a structured, online system with clear deadlines and fees, the Excise Department aims to enhance transparency and efficiency. The cluster-based model not only prioritizes existing operators but also provides a fallback mechanism to ensure that shops remain operational, supporting both business continuity and state revenue streams.
