BENGALURU: Congress is running out of ways to keep word about the extravagant welfare scheme promised before the elections. In the latest move, the Karnataka government has decided to increase the rate of liquor in the state. The government expects a 10% increase in income to reach the state coffers. The reform will be announced in the impending Budget session scheduled to be in July.

To complete all the promises, Rs 60,000 crore is required. Minding the stagnant financial movement in Karnataka, the government has decided to increase the liquor tax which will see the state receiving Rs 40,000 crore surpassing the earlier Rs 35,000. Along with foreign liquors, the rates of beer will also see a hike.

Meanwhile, excise minister R B Timmapur denied finalizing the move and said the talks are just around the corner and it is for the CM to give the yes nod for the reforms to begin.

On another note, CM Siddaramaiah has accused the central government of toppling the touted congress scheme of 'Anna Bhagya 2.0'. CM said BJP is blocking the required quantum of rice to the State for its ‘Anna Bhagya’ scheme, which provides 10 kg for each member of the BPL family and Antyodaya card holders from July 1.