New Excise Department Office Building Inaugurated in Shillong

Shillong, India Aug 28, 2026 ALN: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated the new office building of the Excise Department at Lower Lachaumiere on Friday, a significant step in consolidating the department's operations under one roof. This new facility aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the department, which has been operating from temporary structures for over fifty years.

Excise Minister Brening A. Sangma, Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil Ahammad, along with senior officers and staff of the department, attended the inauguration ceremony. The event marked a pivotal moment for the Excise Department, which has long sought a dedicated space to streamline its functions and improve service delivery.

During the inauguration, Chief Minister Sangma emphasized the importance of the new building, describing it as a "significant milestone" for the Excise Department. He expressed joy and satisfaction in fulfilling a longstanding demand of the department, which has been hindered by inadequate facilities for decades. The Chief Minister's remarks reflect a broader commitment to enhancing public administration and infrastructure across the state.

In his address, Sangma underscored the Excise Department's vital role in generating revenue for the state, noting that the new office building is part of a larger government initiative aimed at strengthening administrative infrastructure. Over the past eight years, the government has implemented infrastructure improvements across various sectors, including educational institutions, police facilities, health centres, and administrative offices, thereby enhancing the overall governance framework in .

Excise Revenue Rises from ₹180 Crore to Over ₹500 Crore

Highlighting the department's financial achievements, Sangma disclosed that the Excise Department's revenue has surged from approximately ₹180 crore eight years ago to over ₹500 crore currently. This remarkable increase can be attributed to various strategic decisions made by the government, including the integration of excise and VAT-related arrangements, which are expected to bolster revenue collection further.

He also referenced a significant Cabinet decision made in August 2026, which sought to bring VAT on alcoholic liquor under the Excise Duty regime through amendments to Section 44 and Schedule V of the Value Added Tax Act. This move is anticipated to streamline revenue generation processes and enhance the state's fiscal health.

Sangma expressed confidence that the department could surpass the ₹1,000-crore revenue mark in the future, given its potential for continued growth. This optimistic outlook is grounded in the government's commitment to implementing sustainable reforms that do not disrupt the existing ecosystem while safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders involved.

Excise Revenue Supports Welfare Programmes

Beyond mere financial metrics, the Chief Minister highlighted the broader social impact of the revenue generated by the Excise Department. He noted that the funds collected play a crucial role in supporting various welfare programmes, including the construction of schools, hospitals, and initiatives aimed at promoting safe motherhood. This connection between excise revenue and social welfare underscores the importance of the department's work and its contribution to the state's development.

Sangma urged the officers and staff to recognize the significance of their roles, emphasizing that the revenue collected not only contributes to the state's coffers but also directly impacts the lives of citizens by facilitating education and healthcare. This perspective reinforces the idea that government work is not just about numbers; it is about improving the quality of life for the people of .

As he concluded his address, the Chief Minister encouraged officials to view the new building as their "second home." He called upon them to approach their duties with commitment and dedication, emphasizing the importance of achieving the department's goals and targets in service of the public.

₹14.55-Crore Integrated Office Complex

The new office building, developed at a total project cost of ₹14.55 crore, is designed to house several key operational arms of the Excise Department, including the Excise Laboratory, Enforcement Wing, Integrated Excise Management System, and the Commissioner’s Office. This consolidation of functions is expected to enhance operational efficiency, reduce delays, and eliminate information gaps that often arise when operations are conducted from separate premises.

The integrated campus is also anticipated to improve accessibility for licensees and citizens, as it will centralize related services, allowing individuals to complete transactions without the need to visit multiple locations. This change is expected to enhance the overall user experience and streamline processes, ultimately benefiting both the department and the public it serves.

In summary, the inauguration of the new Excise Department office building in Shillong represents a significant advancement in the state's administrative capabilities. It reflects the government's ongoing commitment to improving infrastructure, increasing revenue, and enhancing public welfare through effective governance. As the Excise Department embarks on this new chapter, the implications of its work will resonate throughout the state, impacting various sectors and contributing to the overall development of .