Shimla, Apr 30,
Amid growing concerns over the supply of substandard construction materials and agricultural products in rural development projects, the Himachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Department has taken a firm step to enforce quality control mechanisms. In a recent move, the department has issued a notification inviting bids from UGC-accredited universities and certified laboratories to undertake quality testing of materials being distributed under various government schemes. These include fertilizers, biofertilizers, and Him Ira-branded food and wellness products, which are widely used in rural areas as part of development and livelihood initiatives.
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According to sources, this decision comes in response to reports from several districts and blocks pointing to the use of adulterated materials—particularly fertilizers—and inferior construction goods in government-sponsored schemes. The issue has drawn attention in the local media, with multiple instances being reported where farmers and panchayat representatives voiced concerns over the poor quality of inputs negatively impacting agriculture and developmental outcomes.
The Himachal Pradesh Livelihood Mission, which plays a key role in rural upliftment, has also joined the effort by calling for proposals to empanel reputed and registered laboratories, universities, and companies. These entities must have the necessary infrastructure to conduct microbial, chemical, and adulteration testing of the products supplied under rural schemes. The objective is to ensure that all such materials are pure, safe, and comply with FSSAI norms.
Preference in the selection process will be extended to institutions with prior experience in conducting similar work for government departments. The evaluation of bids will follow a two-stage process, starting with technical qualification followed by financial bidding. Only those bidders who meet the technical criteria will be considered for the financial round.
A senior official from the Panchayati Raj Department emphasized that this initiative aims to curb the rampant dumping of substandard materials in villages. By introducing a transparent quality verification system through accredited institutions, the department hopes to safeguard the interests of farmers and reinforce the credibility of state-run development programs.
