Minister Satish Sharma Reviews Winter Preparedness, Smart PDS Implementation in J&K
SRINAGAR: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, today held a comprehensive review meeting to assess the department’s preparedness for ensuring uninterrupted availability of essential commodities during the upcoming winter months in Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was attended in person by Commissioner Secretary FCS&CA, Saurabh Bhagat; Director FCS&CA Kashmir, Owais Ahmad; Assistant Directors of Kashmir Division; and representatives from the Food Corporation of India (FCI). Directors of FCS&CA Jammu, Finance (FCS&CA), and all Assistant Directors of Jammu Division joined virtually.
At the outset, the Minister sought a comparative report on foodgrain stocks for October this year versus the same period last year. He directed that adequate stocks be positioned well in advance in snow-bound and remote areas to meet at least six months of public demand, accounting for potential road blockages during peak winter.
Sharma also reviewed the availability of petroleum products, including LPG and kerosene, emphasizing their critical role for cooking and heating. He instructed that sufficient stocks be ensured in remote areas before winter and that priority be given to their uninterrupted supply.
The Minister assessed transportation mechanisms for snow-affected regions, noting that conventional methods often cause delays. He directed the preparation of contingency plans, including alternative transport such as sledges, load carriers, and coordinated RTC vehicle movements, to guarantee smooth supply.
While reviewing the functioning of Smart PDS, Sharma acknowledged its benefits but addressed public grievances over its implementation. He instructed the strengthening of grievance redressal cells at the district level to ensure prompt resolution of consumer issues. He also reiterated zero tolerance for substandard foodgrains, directing regular inspections at depots and Fair Price Shops to ensure only quality-assured stocks reach beneficiaries.
The progress of the e-KYC exercise was also reviewed in detail. Sharma highlighted its importance in eliminating bogus beneficiaries, preventing leakages, and ensuring accurate targeting of subsidies. He urged officers to expedite the process with the support of local administration and conduct awareness campaigns to encourage timely completion by beneficiaries.
Reiterating the Government’s commitment to public welfare, the Minister said, “The primary responsibility of the administration is to ensure that no household in J&K faces a shortage of essentials during winter. All necessary arrangements must be completed well in advance, particularly for those in remote and snow-bound areas.”
Sharma appreciated the Department’s efforts in streamlining supplies but urged officers to work in a mission mode for timely stocking and efficient implementation of reforms. He assured full logistical and financial support from the Government to ensure smooth and effective service delivery.
During the meeting, the Commissioner Secretary provided a detailed presentation on measures being taken to streamline ration distribution and implement new initiatives effectively.
