Financial Commissioner Sumita Misra Conducts Dual Inspections in Chandigarh
In a comprehensive oversight visit, Sumita Misra, the Financial Commissioner for Revenue and Disaster Management in Chandigarh, undertook detailed inspections at two critical public facilities on Friday. Her agenda focused on assessing wheat procurement operations at the Barwala Grain Market and evaluating healthcare services at the Batour Primary Health Centre, demonstrating a hands-on approach to governance.
Barwala Grain Market: Ensuring Efficient Wheat Procurement
At the Barwala Grain Market, Misra meticulously reviewed the ongoing wheat procurement and lifting operations. She conducted a thorough assessment of the facilities available to farmers and arhtiyas, emphasizing the importance of a seamless process during the peak procurement season.
Key findings from the grain market inspection included:
- Wheat arrivals totaled 1.56 lakh quintals, with 1.27 lakh quintals procured and 46,700 quintals already lifted.
- Procurement and lifting operations were reported to be progressing smoothly without major disruptions.
- Biometric verification systems and gate pass issuance mechanisms were functioning effectively to streamline farmer access.
Misra personally cross-checked the weight of wheat sacks and found the measurements to be satisfactory. She interacted directly with farmers and arhtiyas to gather feedback, ensuring their concerns were heard and addressed promptly.
Focus on Farmer Amenities and Payment Timelines
During her visit, Misra issued clear directives to officials regarding farmer welfare. She mandated that payments for procured crops must be credited to farmers' bank accounts within 72 hours to prevent financial delays. Additionally, she emphasized the need to provide all necessary amenities to farmers in the mandi, instructing officials to avoid any inconvenience to them.
The procurement at Barwala grain market is being managed by HAFED and the Haryana State Warehousing Corporation. Misra directed these agencies to expedite the lifting process, with officials assuring her that lifting would exceed 80% by the following week.
Atal Canteen: Quality Food at Nominal Prices
In a notable demonstration of her commitment to grassroots assessment, Misra inspected the Atal Canteen established for farmers and laborers at the grain market. She evaluated the quality of food being served at the nominal price of Rs 10 per meal.
To experience the service firsthand, she dined at the canteen as an ordinary citizen and made the due payment. Misra appreciated the canteen operators for maintaining good food quality, highlighting the importance of affordable and nutritious meals for agricultural workers.
Surprise Inspection at Batour Primary Health Centre
Later in the day, Misra, who also holds the charge of Additional Chief Secretary for Health and Family Welfare, conducted an unannounced inspection of the Primary Health Centre at Batour. This visit aimed to assess the quality of healthcare services provided to the local community.
During the health centre inspection, Misra:
- Interacted with patients to gather feedback on healthcare services and patient experiences.
- Examined the doctors' attendance register and reviewed daily patient footfall in the Outpatient Department.
- Inspected the in-house pharmacy, verifying medicine stocks and directing that there be no shortage of essential medications.
Improvements Directed for Healthcare Facilities
Misra provided specific instructions to enhance the functionality of the health centre. She directed that a separate entry route be established for emergency ward patients to ensure ease of access and avoid inconvenience. Additionally, she ordered the installation of a clearly visible signboard to help patients easily locate the emergency ward.
Her inspection extended to various departments, including the general OPD, Ayurvedic OPD, nursing station, labour room, and dental OPD. Through interactions with patients, doctors, and paramedical staff, Misra gathered comprehensive insights into the operational challenges and successes of the facility.
These dual inspections underscore the government's proactive approach to monitoring critical public services, from agricultural procurement to healthcare delivery, ensuring accountability and efficiency in Chandigarh.
