Diamond Jubilee of CBI

CBI

Technical Data

Date of Issue April 3, 2023
Denomination Rs. 5
Quantity 301,700
Perforation 13 x 13¼
Printer Security Printing Press, Hyderabad
Printing Process Wet Offset
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Credit (Designed By) Ms. Nenu Gupta Sh. Brahm Prakash
Catalog Codes

Yvert et Tellier IN 3544

Stanley Gibbons IN 3851

Colnect codes IN 2023.04.03-01

Michel IN 3885

Themes

Origins in Wartime India

The roots of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) lie in the Special Police Establishment (SPE), which was created in 1941 by the Government of India to probe cases of bribery and corruption in the War & Supply Department during World War II. With war-related expenditure rising, corrupt practices flourished, prompting the need for a dedicated agency to investigate such offences. Initially confined to war supplies, the SPE’s jurisdiction was soon expanded to cover corruption in the Indian Railways.

Institutional Evolution

Recognizing its importance even after the war, the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946 was enacted. This Act enlarged the functions of SPE to cover all departments of the Government of India, while allowing extension to States with their consent. On 1st April 1963, through a resolution of the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Central Bureau of Investigation was formally established, with SPE as one of its core divisions. Over time, its scope expanded to include employees of Public Sector Undertakings and later, Nationalized Banks after 1969.

Expanding Mandate

From 1965 onwards, CBI was also entrusted with the investigation of economic offences and, selectively, serious conventional crimes like murder, kidnapping, and terrorism. Today, its jurisdiction extends to corruption, bank frauds, financial crimes, organized crime, cyber offences, wildlife crimes, art smuggling, human trafficking, and more.

National and International Role

CBI also acts as the National Central Bureau (Interpol India), serving as the nodal point for coordination between Indian and foreign law enforcement agencies. It plays a vital role in international police cooperation and handles requests related to the United Nations Convention on Transnational Organized Crimes (UNTOC) and its protocols.

A Trusted Institution

With functions ranging from investigation and prosecution to preventive vigilance, training, and research, the CBI has evolved into a multidisciplinary investigating agency. Over the past 60 years, it has earned credibility as a professional and impartial body, trusted by the executive, legislature, judiciary, and citizens alike.

Stamp of Honor

On the occasion of its Diamond Jubilee, the Department of Posts is proud to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on the Central Bureau of Investigation, saluting its contribution in preserving integrity in public life and safeguarding the nation’s economic and social fabric.

First Day Cover