In a move aimed at enhancing employee welfare and strengthening state enterprises, the Karnataka government is planning to set up supermarkets for its staff through the state-owned Mysore Sales International (MSIL) — similar to the canteens available for police, paramilitary and defence personnel.
The initiative seeks to make essential daily-use items available to state government employees at discounted prices, benefiting nearly six lakh employees and their families. A preliminary round of discussions has already been held, and MSIL has been directed to submit a feasibility report within a month.
In the first phase, four to five outlets are expected to be launched in Bengaluru, with plans to expand to district headquarters in subsequent phases. The Finance Department will also be consulted to explore the possibility of subsidies or tax exemptions to ensure the scheme’s long-term sustainability.
Beyond employee welfare, the move is designed to revitalise MSIL by broadening its operational scope and creating new revenue streams. The initiative is also expected to generate a significant number of direct and indirect employment opportunities across the state.
To ensure that the plan meets employee expectations, MSIL will engage with associations representing state- government employees before finalising the structure and operational model.
If implemented, Karnataka will become one of the first states in India to offer a dedicated supermarket network exclusively for its government workforce.
