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Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandars
Context:
The Union Home Minister stated that the Ministry of Home Affairs will set up 16 new Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandars in Manipur to provide essential goods to the public at reasonable prices.
About KPKB:
- The Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandar (KPKB), also known as the Central Police Canteen, is a welfare initiative launched by the Ministry of Home Affairs in India in 2006.
- It aims to support active and retired personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), Central Police Organisations (CPOs), and various state police forces, along with their families.
Key Features of KPKB:
- Welfare Initiative: KPKB serves as a crucial support system for approximately 3.5 million beneficiaries, providing them with essential consumer goods at affordable prices.
- This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to the well-being of security personnel and their families.
- Retail Network: The KPKB operates through a network of 119 Master Bhandars (large stores) and over 1,800 Subsidiary Bhandars (smaller stores) across India.
- These outlets offer a variety of products, including food, clothing, and household items, often at lower prices than regular retail stores.
- Central Purchase Committee: A Central Purchase Committee negotiates with suppliers to secure good deals and discounts for the KPKB stores, ensuring that beneficiaries can save money on their purchases.
- Modernisation Efforts: KPKB is undergoing modernisation to enhance its services by incorporating new technologies and streamlining operations for better efficiency.
- Promotion of Indigenous Products: In line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, KPKB is also focusing on promoting Indigenous products to support local industries.
- Tax Status: Unlike the Canteen Stores Department (CSD) under the Ministry of Defence, products sold at KPKB are not tax-exempt, which has been a point of discussion among various police organisations advocating for similar benefits.