Shimla
The newly constituted governing board of Kailash District Federation held its first meeting on Wednesday under the chairmanship of Federation Chairman Baldev Thakur.
The meeting discussed the federation’s future action plan, business expansion, employment generation and several measures related to opening petrol pumps, LPG gas agencies and ration shops.
Board members Karm Chand, Jaillal Danta, Prem Singh, Naresh Sharma, Prem Dogra, Trilok Bhaluni and Lalit Kumar Sharma attended the meeting.
Survey planned for new petrol pumps
The board decided to conduct a district-wide survey to identify suitable locations for setting up new petrol pumps. A committee has been constituted to visit Shimla Rural, Theog, Rampur, Rohru and other areas and assess the feasibility of potential sites.
The committee has been asked to submit its report within about a week. Further action will be taken in consultation with Indian Oil Corporation based on the findings.
Move to explore new LPG gas agencies
The federation also discussed the possibility of obtaining LPG gas agency licences from Indian Oil Corporation. A committee will survey areas with high demand for LPG and a sufficient consumer base. The findings will form the basis for further action to establish new gas agencies.
Loss-making ration shops to be reviewed
The board also took a decision to review ration shops operating at a loss. Chairman Baldev Thakur directed the concerned officials to examine such outlets and initiate the process of closing those that are consistently unviable.
At the same time, the federation will consider opening new ration shops in areas where there is demand from 400-500 or more consumers. Creating employment opportunities for local residents through such outlets will also be a priority.
The federation aims to ensure that its ration shops operate at least on a no-profit, no-loss basis, enabling them to meet staff salaries, electricity bills and other operational expenses.
Vacant posts to be filled
The meeting also reviewed vacancies in the federation, particularly the long-pending post of Accounts Officer. It was decided to seek government approval and fill the post through the prescribed recruitment process.
A proposal will also be sent to the government for filling vacant posts of clerks, drivers, Class-IV employees and other staff. The federation management will take up the appointments on priority after receiving the required approval.
Employment generation to remain a key focus
Employment generation, particularly for local youth, will remain a major focus of the federation’s future activities. Baldev Thakur said the objective was not merely to expand business but also to create local employment opportunities and provide better services to farmers, orchardists and consumers.
The board also discussed the possibility of expanding activities through the federation’s CS stores and other initiatives aimed at farmers, horticulturists and consumers. Officials were directed to conduct surveys and prepare action plans for these initiatives.
Baldev Thakur said the newly constituted board was committed to strengthening the federation, developing new sources of revenue, expanding employment opportunities and ensuring better facilities for farmers, orchardists and the general public.
