Adil Khan reviews excise operations in Barak Valley

The high-level meeting witnessed the presence of senior officials, including L.N. Baruah, Deputy Commissioner of Excise, Assam; Phyllis V.L. Hmunsiami Hrangchal, Additional Deputy Commissioner in charge of Excise, Cachar; Santonu Hazarika, Superintendent of Excise, Cachar; Himan Jyoti Baruah, Superintendent of Excise, Hailakandi; Siddhartha Sankar Dutta, Superintendent of Excise, Sribhumi; along with all other key officials of the department.

During the review, the Secretary stressed the importance of meeting revenue targets while maintaining strict compliance with excise regulations. He analyzed current revenue trends, discussed strategies to bridge shortfalls, and underlined the need for innovative measures to boost state revenue without compromising on enforcement. The meeting also focused on simplifying licensing and permit procedures to encourage transparency and efficiency in excise operations.

Adil Khan also expressed concern over the persistent problem of illicit liquor in rural pockets and directed the officials to intensify raids in tea garden areas, which have often been identified as vulnerable zones for illegal brewing. He further instructed the teams to strengthen naka checking at all major interstate check gates across Barak Valley to prevent the inflow of liquor from neighboring states. The Secretary reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance approach towards smuggling and directed the department to maintain a strict vigil through frequent field inspections.

Highlighting the importance of coordinated action, Adil Khan called for better inter-district collaboration and real-time reporting of enforcement activities. He urged officials to take a proactive stance, ensuring that no gap is left in monitoring and enforcement. “The focus must be on curbing illicit trade while simultaneously creating an environment that promotes compliance among legitimate stakeholders,” he stated during the interaction.

The review also addressed the pending licensing cases and discussed ways to expedite approvals through simplified procedures, which would not only ease business operations but also strengthen revenue inflows for the state.

The meeting concluded on a note of accountability and determination, with the Excise Department committing to an intensified drive against illegal liquor trade and renewed efforts to optimize revenue collection. This move is seen as part of the Assam Government’s broader vision of ensuring transparency, enhancing state revenue, and safeguarding public health by eliminating the circulation of illicit liquor in the region.

This is stated in a press release issued from Regional office of Information & Public Relations Barak valley Zone Silchar Assam.