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Maharashtra extends e-lock system to molasses and liquor transport in Phase 2
The Maharashtra government expands the mandatory e-lock/digital lock requirement to a broader set of excisable goods, including molasses and liquor, as part of Phase 2. A Government Resolution issued on May 5, 2026 sets June 1, 2026 as the start of the new phase, with Phase 1 having been implemented earlier to cover rectified spirit and export consignments.
Why It Matters
The expansion strengthens oversight and surveillance of the movement of sensitive excisable goods, aiming to curb pilferage and ensure regulatory compliance across intra-state, inter-state, and export-import consignments.
Timeline
3 Events
Second phase to come into force; enforcement details
May 5, 2026
The resolution states the second phase will come into force from June 1, 2026 and will be binding on all concerned stakeholders. The expanded deployment covers vehicles transporting molasses, alcohol or liquor en route to other states, those entering Maharashtra with consignments under transport permits, vehicles importing liquor under K-form, and goods moved from ports to other states for export, among others.
Maharashtra govt extends e-lock to Phase 2 (via Government Resolution)
May 5, 2026
The State Home Department issued a Government Resolution on May 5, 2026 extending the mandatory e-lock/digital lock system to a wider set of categories, including molasses, alcohol and liquor, for movements through Maharashtra and for consignments entering or exiting the state, as well as imports via K-form and customs-bonded warehouses.
Phase 1 e-lock system introduced
July 1, 2025
The first phase of the e-lock/digital lock system was introduced and made mandatory from July 1, 2025 for transport of rectified spirit from distilleries and export consignments of liquor and beer from licensed units.