PANJIM: Amidst increasing demand for opening up of bars and pubs across the state, Tourism Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Manohar Ajgoankar on Monday said that decision will be taken by the State Cabinet.
Soon after the nationwide lockdown was imposed, the liquor outlets along with bars and pubs had to close down its shutters. At the same time, excise department extended renewal period by two month till May 31 as against annual deadline of March 31.
Speaking to goemkarponn.com, Tourism Minister Manohar Ajgoankar said, “I do not want to comment on the issue of opening up of bars and pubs in the state on an individual level. Whatever decision it is, will be discussed at the cabinet meeting and whatever the decision that will be taken forward.”
The States excise revenue is one of the major contributors to the State’s exchequer. After mining ban since 2012, dependence on Tourism sector increased but with COVID-19 pandemic, Goa’s tourism projects has taken a major beating.
Meanwhile, in April 2020, wherein no sale of liquor was recorded due to the lockdown, revenue was generated only through license fees, fines and other forms of taxes. The corresponding month of last year, on the other hand, recorded Rs 26 crore approx.
