Question : SALE OF LIQUOR IN OPEN MARKET

(a) whether the comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) was denied access to the records of Unit Run Canteens for performance audit of Canteen Stores Department in 2009-2010;

(b) if so, the reasons therefor;

(c) whether the Government has taken cognizance of overdrawing of liquor and sale thereof by army units/personnel in the open market thereby causing huge loss to the exchequer;

(d) if so, the details of such incidents during the last three years and the loss incurred to the Government as a result thereof;

(e) whether the Government has taken any steps to investigate the same and punish the guilty officials; and

(f) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI A.K. ANTONY)

(a) & (b): The Unit Run Canteens (URCs) are established from the non-public fund of the Three Services and are non-government entities. Arrangements already exist for audit of these Non-public funds. C&AG has been informed in the matter.

(c) to (f): The Units of the Defence Services can withdraw liquor as per their authorization. The CIMS (Smart) cards enable issue of liquor as per the authorized entitlement of the bonafide personnel/organisation. The indents are vetted by competent military authority. The drawal of liquor is well below the authorization of entitled personnel.