Omar Abdullah Reviews Essential Supplies in J&K Ahead of Eid and Navratras
Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday chaired a high-level meeting to review the availability of essential commodities and petroleum products across the Union Territory.
The meeting was held in view of the upcoming festivals of Eid and Navratras, as well as the current geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which could affect supply chains.
Senior Officials Attend High-Level Meeting
The meeting was attended by several senior government officials and ministers including Sakina Itoo, Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, and representatives of oil companies.
Deputy Commissioners from all districts of Jammu and Kashmir also joined the meeting through online mode.
Officials from the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, the Information Department, and oil marketing companies such as Indian Oil Corporation Limited were also present.
Review of Fuel and Essential Commodities
During the meeting, the Chief Minister reviewed the stock and supply position of petrol, diesel, LPG cylinders and other essential commodities across the region.
Officials informed the meeting that adequate reserves of fuel and LPG are available at storage facilities and distribution centres across Jammu and Kashmir despite global disruptions.
Warning Against Hoarding and Black Marketing
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah directed district administrations to remain alert and proactive to ensure that no hoarding, artificial shortage, or black marketing takes place.
He asked all Deputy Commissioners to closely monitor supply chains in their districts and ensure fair distribution of essential goods.
“The administration must stay alert. We do not know how long the current situation may continue, so we must ensure there is no artificial scarcity,” the Chief Minister said.
Public Communication to Prevent Panic Buying
The Chief Minister also instructed the Information Department to regularly update the public about the stock position and availability of essential items.
According to him, timely information will help prevent rumours and unnecessary panic buying among people.
Monitoring LPG Supply During Festivals and Tourist Season
Special focus was also given to the availability of commercial LPG cylinders, particularly because of the ongoing Navratras, the upcoming Eid festival, and the beginning of the tourist season.
The Chief Minister asked officials to consult stakeholders such as hotel owners and restaurant operators before making any decisions regarding LPG supply adjustments.
Strict Action Against Violators
Minister Satish Sharma, who heads the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, warned that strict action would be taken against anyone trying to exploit the situation through hoarding or profiteering.
Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo also directed Deputy Commissioners to support enforcement teams in monitoring markets and preventing illegal practices.
Measures to Ensure Fair Distribution
Officials informed the meeting about several steps taken to ensure smooth supply of LPG and fuel.
These include:
- Introduction of Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) to ensure LPG cylinders reach genuine consumers.
- e-KYC verification campaign to identify inactive or duplicate LPG connections.
- Temporary cap on non-domestic LPG supply while ensuring uninterrupted supply to essential institutions like hospitals and schools.
Additional Kerosene Allocation
The meeting was also informed that the Government of India has provided an additional allocation of 468 kilolitres of PDS Superior Kerosene Oil (SKO).
This allocation will mainly support vulnerable families, including Antyodaya Anna Yojana beneficiaries, for cooking and lighting purposes.
Officials said the administration will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure stable supplies and prevent market manipulation across Jammu and Kashmir.
You Might Also Like:
Mehbooba Mufti Expresses Solidarity With Iran, Urges Kashmiris to Pray for Iranian People
Baramulla Police Hold Training Programme on UAPA and NDPS Cases for North Kashmir Officers
Centre Revokes NSA Detention of Sonam Wangchuk, Calls for Peace and Dialogue in Ladakh
