The Government of Goa has introduced a significant policy update regarding changes in the licence fees for the licenses near educational institutions and places of worship, as stipulated under Rule 90(4) of the Goa Excise Duty Act and Rules,
1964.
Rule 90(4) explicitly states: “No licence can be granted to an applicant if the premises in which he proposes to open a liquer shop is within a radius of 100 meters from an Educational Institution or a place of worship”. However, as per the proviso in the rule, the licence may be granted by the Commissioner with prior approval of the Government in derogation of this restriction to a liquor shop which the Government consider proper with a view to promote Tourism in the State.
In alignment with this rule, a new Government Notification issued on June 25, 2024, mandates that 100 percent additional license fees shall be charged for licenses issued under this relaxation. This policy applies to both new licenses and the renewal of existing licenses granted under these exceptional circumstances.
All licenses granted or renewed under the relaxation of Rule 90(4) will incur an additional fee of 100 percent.
The above Notification has been issued by the Government in view of increase of revenue by doubling the renewal fees of the existing licences and also if any licences are approved by the government hence forth.
The Excise Department urges all license holders and applicants to familiarize themselves with the new policy and its implications. The public can rest assured that the Government remains dedicated to upholding the integrity of educational and religious spaces.
This notification has been issued solely to make changes in the license fees, and the Government has no intention of relaxing any rules for the grant of licenses within 100 meters of educational institutions and religious places.
