The Excise Department Himachal Pradesh, on March 31, 2026, has issued a notification amending the Punjab Distillery Rules, 1932 as applicable in Himachal Pradesh under the powers of the Himachal Pradesh Excise Act, 2011 and the Punjab Excise Act, 1914. The amendments are effective from April 1, 2026.
The notification mandates installation of integrated IP-based CCTV systems with internet connectivity (Wi-Fi) by wholesalers (L-1 IMFL and L-13 country liquor licensees) and liquor manufacturing units, including bottling plants. The system must cover key operational areas such as bottling halls, storage areas, and entry/exit points. Continuous live feed access must be provided to designated excise authorities, and recording storage of at least 30 days is required with monthly backup submission.
Additionally, ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras must be installed at entry and exit points of distilleries, warehouses, and breweries, with 24×7 live feed to control rooms at district, zonal, and headquarters levels. Failure to install such systems within April of the policy year will attract a penalty of ₹1 lakh per month. A district-level control room will also be established for monitoring operations and dispatches.
[Notification No.: 7-1/2026-EXN-9607]
