New Delhi, Jan. 1 -- The government has imposed a fresh and comprehensive excise duty framework on cigarettes and other tobacco products, marking a decisive shift in its taxation policy for the sector.
A series of Central Excise notifications have been issued to revise duty rates, clarify product classification, and strengthen compliance provisions, signalling a tougher stance on tobacco taxation.
Under the revised structure, cigarettes will now attract a specific excise duty ranging from Rs 2,050-8,500 per 1,000 sticks, depending on the length and characteristics of the cigarette. Shorter cigarettes fall under the lower duty slabs, while longer cigarettes attract progressively higher excise rates.
This duty is levied in addition to the ...