excise commissioner

Lucknow's excise department witnessed a significant revenue surge in April, generating Rs 4,319 crore, a Rs 1,000 crore increase compared to last year, after adopting a new retail liquor trade structure. Excise Minister Nitin Agarwal emphasized the department's crucial role in boosting the state's economy through public infrastructure and social welfare schemes.

Malayalam cinematographer Sameer Thahir was arrested by the Excise Department in Kochi under the NDPS Act after a drug bust at his flat led to the detention of directors Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamsa. Thahir, later released on bail, claimed unawareness of any substance use. The flat owners' association has asked Thahir to vacate, and FEFKA has suspended Rahman and Hamsa.

Excise officials in Alappuzha questioned reality show star Jinto and film crew member Joshy regarding their connections with Tasleema, the prime suspect in a major ganja smuggling case. The questioning, which lasted for eight hours, focused on WhatsApp chats and financial transactions. While both admitted to financial dealings with Tasleema, authorities clarified that these transactions were unrelated to the ganja trade, and both were cleared of any involvement in the smuggling operation.

Tamil Nadu is set to conduct a civil defence exercise at Madras Atomic Power Station (MAPS) in Kalpakkam and Chennai Port Trust on Wednesday, following a Union home ministry advisory. The mock drill aims to assess the operational efficacy and coordination of civil defence measures, including handling simulated air raids.

Kolkata's rooftop restaurant owners are heading to court after facing closure notices from the KMC and police due to alleged building rule violations. The KMC cancelled leaves and continued serving notices, while police initiated fire audits. The NRAI opposes the blanket closures and supports legal action for compliant establishments, citing job losses and questioning the initial license approvals.

Uttar Pradesh is set to allow beer sales at 3,138 additional country liquor stores, aiming to boost revenue and cater to rising demand. This initiative, part of the new excise policy, expects to generate ₹150 crore in license fees and ₹1,000-1,500 crore in excise duty.