Shimla
In the cheap ration distribution system of cheap depots, the depot operators of the state are distributing ration to the consumers by running POS machines by spending Rs 470 every month from their pockets. The SIMs of the POS machines installed by the department to distribute rations by thumb impression have been lying defunct for many years. The depot operators are running these machines by taking internet connections at their own expense, but now the depot operators have refused to bear this expense. The depot operators of the state say that the SIMs of the POS machines are defunct.
Wi-Fi connections have been taken to run the machines, on which internet and Wi-Fi facilities are being availed of by paying Rs 470 per month to each depot holder, whereas according to the MoU, all this expense was to be borne by the company. The State Depot Operators Committee says that this matter was also raised many times before the department and the government, but no action was taken by the government and the department. Committee President Ashok Kavi has again demanded from the government and the department that strict orders should be issued to the company in this regard or else the company should be blacklisted.
The committee officials have demanded from the state chief minister to give 20,000 thousand monthly salary to PDS depot holders in the budget of the next financial year. The committee officials said that after assessing the pitiable financial condition of the depot holders before the general assembly elections, the Congress Party had promised in its election manifesto to make arrangements to give a 20 thousand rupee monthly salary to the depot holders in the state if the Congress Party government is formed in the state, but this promise has not been fulfilled yet. Committee President Ashok Kavi said that the promise made to the depot holders should be fulfilled soon; otherwise, on the foundation day to be celebrated by the depot operators on April 14, the depot operators across the state will be forced to take a decision to protest against the government.
The government has also increased the fee for renewal of the depot license. Earlier this fee was Rs 200 per year, but now this fee has been increased to Rs 700. The committee has also demanded from the government to make a system of one-time licenses.
