Himfed introduces cement delivery service in Sirmaur

In a significant move to provide relief to consumers, Himachal Pradesh State Cooperative Marketing and Consumer Federation Limited (Himfed) has introduced an affordable cement delivery service in and around Nahan. The initiative aims to supply cement directly to consumers’ doorsteps at a price significantly lower than the market rate, eliminating the need for any additional effort or transportation charges.

Himfed has partnered with Cement Corporation of India (CCI) to make this service operational. Consumers can now purchase CCI cement at just Rs 365 per bag, a substantial saving compared to the Rs 400 or more charged by private companies. What sets this initiative apart is the convenience of home delivery without any additional transportation costs.

Initially, this service has been launched in Nahan and nearby areas, including Banog, Jarja, Jabal Ka Bagh, Amwala, Sainwala, Kanshiwala, Shambhuwala and Bankala. Plans are underway to expand the facility to other parts of Sirmaur district soon.

In Sirmaur, Himfed operates nine stores in locations such as Nahan, Sarahan, Jamta, Dhamla, Giripul, Nauradhar, Sangrah, Timbi and Paonta Sahib. These stores cater primarily to farmers and horticulturists, offering chemical fertilisers, organic fertilisers, and animal feed at affordable prices. Additionally, Himfed supplies items like plastic crates and baskets to support the agricultural community.

Madan Thakur, Himfed’s in-charge for Sirmaur, explained the significance of the initiative “We are supplying CCI cement to consumers at just Rs. 365 per bag, which is far cheaper than the market rate. This service is designed to relieve customers from the hassle of transportation and additional costs. For now, we aim to sell 200 tonnes of cement this month and will soon expand the service to other parts of the district.”

This isn’t the first time Himfed has ventured into cement distribution. The federation had successfully supplied cement from 2005 to 2010 before the service was discontinued due to unforeseen circumstances. The reintroduction of this facility comes as a welcome move for consumers, especially in areas where private cement suppliers dominate the market with higher prices.

Himfed’s affordable cement delivery service is expected to have a far-reaching impact on rural and semi-urban communities in Sirmaur. By ensuring accessibility and affordability, the initiative supports local construction activities, which often suffer due to high costs of building materials.

Consumers in Nahan and the covered areas have already begun placing orders and reaping the benefits of this cost-effective service. With Himfed’s commitment to quality and affordability, the initiative has the potential to set a benchmark for cooperative marketing in Himachal Pradesh.