Maharashtra’s lottery system, operational since 1969, currently runs 15 different lottery schemes. BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar has called for a detailed study of the revenue generated by the lottery department, highlighting that the state’s earnings are significantly lower compared to other states. He raised this demand in the state assembly last week.

In the financial year 2023-24, Maharashtra earned Rs24.43 crore from lottery sales. However, after deducting prize money, GST, and other taxes, the state’s net income was only Rs3.52 crore. Addressing the state assembly, Mungantiwar questioned why Maharashtra was not maximising its lottery revenue, especially when states like Kerala and Sikkim were earning thousands of crores from the sector.

Mungantiwar criticized the regulatory disparity, arguing that if Maharashtra allows paper lotteries, other states should permit Maharashtra’s paper lotteries in their regions. He also stressed that if Maharashtra lacks an online lottery system, other states shouldn’t operate online lotteries here. Despite this, states like Kerala and Sikkim continue selling online lotteries in Maharashtra.

He pointed out that Kerala, with a population of just 3 crore, has successfully generated Rs 12,529 crore, while Maharashtra, with over 11 crore people, struggles to generate even a fraction of that amount. He estimated that Maharashtra could earn around Rs25,000 crore if a similar model were implemented.

Additionally, Kerala has linked its lottery revenue to social welfare schemes for the handicapped and economically weaker sections, ensuring that the money benefits those in need. Mungantiwar urged Maharashtra to adopt a similar approach.

Mungantiwar also suggested forming a special committee of MLAs to study Kerala’s lottery system and propose a roadmap for increasing Maharashtra’s lottery revenue. He criticised the government for blaming a budget deficit of Rs 45,000 crore while failing to explore ways to boost income.