excise duty

India is considering increasing GST on tobacco products, including cigarettes, after the cessation of the compensation cess in 2026. A proposal to elevate GST to 40% plus additional excise duty aims to maintain tax revenue. A ministerial group will review post-2026 compensation cess scenarios.

BJP leader Kapil Mishra accused AAP of corruption during the Covid-19 period, citing a CAG report that highlights over Rs 2,000 crore loss due to a flawed excise policy. Former Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and his ex-deputy Manish Sisodia allegedly received large commissions, raising concerns about regulatory oversights.

The Bombay high court has issued a notice to the Central government regarding an informer's plea for a reward of Rs 4.73 crore for aiding in recovering over Rs 23 crore in a tax evasion case. The informant, XYZ, was given Rs 25 lakh, much less than the entitled 20%.

Delhi's government experienced a revenue loss exceeding Rs 2,000 crore due to the implementation of the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22, according to a CAG report presented in the Delhi assembly. The policy, withdrawn after nine months, faced criticism for ignoring expert committee recommendations and having design flaws that risked monopolization and cartel formation.

Delhi government incurred a revenue loss exceeding Rs 2,000 crore due to the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22, as per CAG's report. The policy, which was later withdrawn, faced issues like monopoly risks and improper license allocations, leading to significant financial discrepancies.

RBI has mandated agency banks to remain open on March 31, 2025, despite it being a holiday in many states, to ensure accurate financial reporting for FY 2024-25.

Uttar Pradesh's new excise policy allows bars and premium liquor vends in IT parks and SEZs in cities like Noida, Ghaziabad, Agra, and Lucknow. Premium shops must be 3,000 sq. ft., with licences renewable for three years. Distilleries can now operate retail shops and offer tastings; export fees for alcohol base reduced to encourage sourcing from UP.

Kerala has undergone significant changes over the past 25 years, transforming from a greener and less urbanized state to one with blurred rural-urban lines driven by real estate growth and a robust remittance economy. Key issues include fiscal challenges, health concerns, and declining agricultural activities, while positive trends include improved crime management and increasing migrant worker contributions.

Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman urges Karnataka to reduce state-imposed taxes to mitigate inflation and boost consumption. She highlights the Centre's efforts and calls for lowering sales tax on petrol and diesel. Congress functionaries counter, accusing the Union government of financial negligence towards Karnataka and argue against bringing fuels under GST, citing loss of state autonomy.