MP gets record Rs 16,413 cr in liquor auctions despite outlet closures near religious sites

Among all the 52 districts, Bhopal has emerged as the highest revenue offer receiver, with Rs 1,119 crore in bids, surpassing its records

- SATYAPRAKASH SHARMA

BHOPAL: Despite the decision to shut liquor shops near religious sites, the Excise Department of the Madhya Pradesh government has received record revenue offers of Rs 16,413 crore from wine outlet auctions under its new policy for 2025-26.

Among all the 52 districts, Bhopal has emerged as the highest revenue offer receiver, with Rs 1,119 crore in bids, surpassing its records.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav had announced to shut liquor shops at 17 religious places, which was later approved by his cabinet on January 24. After the government decision, 48 outlets will be closed at these sites from April 1 under the new excise policy.

The auction for the 3,552 composite outlets from across the state has been conducted through the e-tendering process, where offers totalling Rs 1,66,13,24,47,047 from bidders were received and successfully disposed of, an official said.