Punjab Newsline | Shimla
The Himachal Pradesh government has officially notified the Himachal Pradesh State Lottery Regulation Rules, 2026, bringing lottery operations under a comprehensive regulatory framework and direct government oversight.
Under the new rules, the minimum price of a lottery ticket has been fixed at ₹2, while the first prize in any lottery scheme cannot be less than ₹10,000. The regulations, prepared by the Directorate of Treasuries, Accounts and Lotteries, aim to ensure transparency, consumer protection, and tighter control over lottery activities in the state.
According to the notification issued by the Finance Department’s Directorate of Treasuries, Accounts and Lotteries, the administrative headquarters for lottery operations will be established in Shimla. The government has also imposed strict restrictions on draw timings, prohibiting any lottery draw after 9:00 PM. Additionally, a maximum of 24 draws across all schemes will be permitted in a single day.
The rules allow only six special bumper draws in a year. Lottery draws will remain suspended on national festivals and public holidays. To enhance security and prevent fraud, every ticket must carry the state government logo, the director’s digital signature, a barcode, QR code, and the exact printing time. Physical tickets will prominently display the message: “For Sale in Himachal Pradesh Only.”
The draft framework includes weekly, monthly, and bumper draw options. Ticket prices may range between ₹10 and ₹500, while prize money can vary from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 crore. However, the final decision on lottery size, draw frequency, and ticket pricing will rest with the Chief Minister.
The rules also impose strict conditions on lottery operators and distributors. Companies awarded lottery contracts must conduct their first draw within 60 days of receiving the tender and signing the agreement. Failure to do so will result in forfeiture of their entire security deposit.
Furthermore, distributors who fail to lift printed tickets without a valid reason may be required to compensate the government for the resulting financial losses through penalties, ensuring greater accountability within the lottery system.
