#News | The Government of Assam has notified the Assam Excise (Amendment) Rules, 2026, introducing major changes in liqu#r sale, licensing, revenue collection and promotion of heritage alcoh*lic beverages. The new rules mandate Minimum Guaranteed Revenue (MGR) for IMFL, beer and country liquor wholesale and retail “OFF” shop license holders. New distance norms have also been introduced for liquor outlets — 500 metres in Kamrup (Metro), 1 km in municipal areas and 2 km in rural areas. Under the revised rules, liquor shops must follow new packaging and serving guidelines. Retail “OFF” shops can sell only sealed bottles of minimum 180 ml, while “ON” shops must use bottles of minimum 750 ml. One full peg has been fixed at 60 ml. The amendment also brings changes in license shifting rules and introduces special provisions to protect and promote Assam’s traditional heritage alcoholic beverages. Manufacturing rights will be reserved for indigenous communities, with reduced license fees and a production limit of 1,000 litres per day. A new category of “Assam Made Liquor” has also been introduced with separate licensing provisions.