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Andhra Pradesh May Permit Lotteries and Real Money Gaming to Increase Revenue

Andhra Pradesh is exploring the possibility of lifting the ban on state lotteries and online gaming to boost tax revenue. The government aims to raise ₹13,100 crore through various additional taxes and cesses. The Finance Department has circulated proposals among relevant departments, and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is expected to make a decision soon. 

The Andhra Pradesh government is exploring several revenue-boosting measures to strengthen its finances. A proposed one per cent cess on State GST is expected to generate ₹4,700 Crore, while an increase in VAT on liquor and certain products could bring in ₹6,500 Crore. The legalization and taxation of state lotteries and online gaming, currently banned, may create new income streams.

Additionally, the government is considering excise duty hikes and revisions to the motor vehicle tax, which could generate ₹600 Crore. A green tax on polluting industries has been proposed to address environmental concerns while contributing to revenue. Surcharges on property transactions are also likely to be introduced to enhance tax collection.

Furthermore, an increase in professional tax is estimated to bring in ₹1,000 Crore, while stamp duty revisions could add ₹500 Crore. Lastly, an entertainment tax on amusement parks and recreational facilities has been proposed to boost revenue from tourism and leisure activities.

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In India, the legal status of poker varies across states due to differing interpretations of gambling laws. While gambling is primarily regulated under the Public Gambling Act of 1867, individual states have the authority to frame their own laws regarding games of skill and chance. Poker, often debated as a game of skill, has been legalized in a few states that recognize skill-based gaming.

Nagaland was one of the first states to explicitly legalize poker through the Nagaland Prohibition of Gambling and Promotion of Online Games of Skill Act, 2016, allowing licensed operators to offer online poker. Similarly, West Bengal recognizes poker as a game of skill under the West Bengal Gambling and Prize Competitions Act, 1957, making it legal in the state. Sikkim, which has a regulated online gaming industry, also permits poker through licensed operators. Goa and Daman are known for their casino-friendly policies.

Meanwhile, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have seen legal battles over poker, with courts at times ruling in favour of the game as skill-based. However, legal challenges continue in several states, making poker’s status fluid in different regions of India. It remains to be seen how this plays out and whether Andhra Pradesh will become another state in India to legalize poker and real-money gaming.

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