Guwahati: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has launched a programme to provide essential commodities to the people of Manipur – who have been enduring prolonged unrest for over 16 months and faced numerous challenges – at affordable prices.
The initiative involves extending the Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandar (KPKB) facilities to the general population of the state.
Originally introduced by the MHA in 2006, the KPKB system was designed to supply essential goods at concessional prices to the retired personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), Central Police Organisations (CPOs) and state police forces across the country.
In view of the unceasing violence in Manipur, the facility has now been extended to benefit the local population, ensuring that essential goods are available at fair prices, despite the restrictions on travel and supplies caused by the unrest.
Manipur Home Commissioner Ashok Kumar confirmed the approval by the MHA to extend KPKB services to the people of the restive state.
He emphasised that this step has been taken to maintain a transparent and equitable supply of essential commodities to the public during these difficult times.
“There are 16 new outlets – eight each in the valley and hill districts – established in addition to the 21 existing KPKB outlets in Manipur. These outlets have already started supplying goods to the local population as of today,” the Home Commissioner said.
On the first day of operation, from 8 am to 1.30 pm, the KPKB outlets saw a steady flow of people buying their daily necessities, including soap, shampoo, detergent, toothbrush, toothpaste and other essential items.
A customer at the newly opened KPKB outlet in Imphal East district’s Lamlai, Sorokkaibam Inaocha Meitei, expressed his gratitude for the initiative, particularly given the challenges posed by the ongoing unrest.
“Prices of essential commodities have skyrocketed and many items are scarce. This new KPKB outlet ensures easy access to essential goods at lower prices than in the market. It is a highly commendable move,” Meitei said.
BSF head constable Kirori Mal, who is managing the Lamlai outlet, reported brisk sales with products worth Rs 27,300 sold by midday on the first day.
He highlighted the high demand among the public for reasonably priced essentials.
To further support the people of Manipur, the state government has also launched mobile sales units, providing essential items, including rice, potatoes, onions, pulses, cooking oil and salt in 16 centres.
This initiative will be expanded to district headquarters in Senapati, Kangpokpi, Noney, Tamenglong, Tengnoupal, Ukhrul, and Kamjong by September 18.
With the opening of KPKB outlets to the public and the additional mobile sales units, the people of Manipur now have much-needed access to essential goods at concessional rates, easing their economic burden amid the unrest.