[Letter to Mr R N Singh Deo]

Summary

In this letter dated 9 August 1967, M. R. Masani writes to R. N. Singh Deo about finding a chairperson for an Evaluation Committee. Masani reports that H. P. Nanda has decided he cannot undertake the responsibility and recommends Dr. P. S. Lokanathan, recently retired as Director General of the National Council of Applied Economic Research, as a suitable replacement.

Masani says Lokanathan could be available for two or three months from 1 September and suggests that Singh Deo contact Nanda at his New Delhi address to indicate whether he supports exploring the proposal. The letter is a brief piece of administrative correspondence focused on committee staffing and the practical arrangements for temporary honorary work.

Key points

• The letter is dated 9 August 1967 and is addressed to Mr. R. N. Singh Deo, Chief Minister of Orissa.
• H. P. Nanda has decided that he cannot take on the chairmanship of the Evaluation Committee.
• Dr. P. S. Lokanathan is recommended as an alternative because of his varied experience and former leadership of the National Council of Applied Economic Research.
• Lokanathan is expected to be free for full-time work for two or three months beginning 1 September.
• Masani does not know whether Lokanathan would serve honorarily or expect an honorarium.
• Masani suggests that Singh Deo write to Nanda to indicate whether he wants the proposal explored further.