Rise in Goa Excise Revenue: Balancing Economic Growth with Environmental Responsibility

The increase in excise revenue in Goa undoubtedly marks a positive economic development for the state. However, the critical question that arises is whether this economic growth is being achieved at the expense of environmental sustainability. Indeed, as the excise revenue soars, the state has been grappling with the issue of pollution caused by liquor companies and the littering of alcoholic beverage containers, mainly glass bottles and plastic glasses, by tourists and locals on the pristine beaches of Goa.
One of the pressing concerns is the lack of adherence to the polluter pays principle by the Goa government. While excise revenue from liquor sales contributes significantly to the state’s coffers, it is essential to ask who bears the cost of environmental damage caused by the extensive consumption of alcoholic beverages.
The absence of a mechanism that holds liquor manufacturing companies accountable for the waste generated from their products raises significant environmental justice concerns.
The impact of this unchecked pollution is strikingly visible on the beaches of Goa, with glass bottles causing injury to both locals and tourists.
The idyllic beaches, which are a major attraction for tourists, are marred by the unsightly litter of glass and plastic, detracting from their natural beauty.
Despite the presence of an initiative for beach cleaning by Drishti Marine, reports suggest that the efforts may be insufficient to address the magnitude of the problem, indicating an urgent need for enhanced measures to tackle beach litter and pollution.
Central to addressing this issue is the need to impose taxation or regulatory measures on liquor manufacturing companies.
These companies should bear the responsibility of managing the waste generated by their products. The principle of extended producer responsibility can be effectively applied, wherein manufacturers are mandated to either take back the bottles for recycling or contribute towards a dedicated fund for mitigating the environmental impact of their products.
By holding these companies accountable for the life cycle of their products, the Goa government can ensure that economic growth does not come at the expense of environmental degradation.
While excise revenue is undeniably crucial for the state’s economy, the government must take proactive steps to ensure that liquor manufacturers do not escape accountability for the detrimental environmental impact of their products. Balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility necessitates a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of pollution and waste generation related to liquor consumption.
Hence, while the rise in excise revenue in Goa presents an opportunity for the state to reevaluate its approach to the environmental impact of liquor consumption.
By incorporating the principles of environmental stewardship and sustainable practices, the state can promote a model of economic growth that is in harmony with environmental preservation.
The Goa government must consider the long-term consequences of unchecked pollution and institute measures that hold liquor manufacturers responsible for their environmental footprint. Only through such concerted efforts can the state ensure a sustainable and thriving future for both its economy and its natural ecosystems.