Bali seeks explanation on mustard oil price hike

Tribune News Service

Dharamsala, July 20

Transport Minister GS Bali has sought explanation from department officials for increasing the mustard oil prices. The government had announced to procure mustard oil for distribution under the public distribution scheme (PDS). In the first tender floated for the purpose, the price was Rs 84 per litre. However, the officials decided to re-tender the contract and the price was hiked by Rs 15.

GS Bali said though the government was committed to providing mustard oil to the people of state under the PDS, the officials would be asked to explain the price hike.

Bali said the government would involve the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) to check private institutes in the state. He said there was a set procedure to be followed before opening such institutions and it must be registered with the Technical Education Department.

“However, it has come to our notice that in most of cases owner or managers of these institutes do not follow the rules,” Bali said.

“Now, we are planning to involve the PRIs in the process to keep a check on the bogus institutions,” said the minister.

“We will also carry out a 15-day drive to tighten the noose around the institutes which are without affiliation,” said he. The HRTC would introduce 20 Volvo buses connecting towns with key destination in other states. He said a drive was being conducted against private Volvo buses plying illegally.