Debt-Hit Himachal Bets on Lottery Comeback After Nearly Three Decades
What Happened
The Himachal Pradesh government has decided to reintroduce lotteries after 27 years, aiming to generate around ₹50 crore annually as it grapples with a debt burden of about ₹1 lakh crore. The state has floated a tender to appoint a sole selling agent, with lottery tickets planned to be sold through both online platforms and authorised outlets. The government is targeting a launch around Diwali.
Key Takeaways
The lottery revival is part of Himachal's efforts to raise non-tax revenue without increasing taxes. Officials cite successful lottery models in states such as Kerala and Punjab, while critics warn of potential social impacts associated with gambling.