Jammu, Apr 22 (KNO): As part of a periodic review a high-level meeting was today convened by Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo to take stock of the availability and distribution of essential commodities across the districts of J&K in the aftermath of the recent West Asia crisis that had initially given rise to the apprehensions of impacting the supply chains.
The meeting was attended by senior officers including Commissioner Secretary, FCS&CA; Commissioner Secretary, School Education; Secretary, IT and, Transport Departments; Divisional Commissioner, Jammu/Kashmir; IG Traffic; and other concerned officials.
The Chief Secretary emphasized the need for continuous monitoring of the situation to ensure ease and convenience for the public. He directed Deputy Commissioners to saturate the e-KYC of all active beneficiaries under the Public Distribution System within the next two weeks, ensuring transparency and efficiency in service delivery.
The Chief Secretary further stressed the importance of closely monitoring the distribution and usage of fertilizers to prevent hoarding or disproportionate consumption by any individual or entity. He directed that mechanisms be put in place to ensure equitable access for all farmers and stakeholders. He also underscored the need to implement an Aadhaar-enabled distribution system for fertilizers to ensure transparency and fair allocation.
Reviewing the supply position, the it was informed that both Kashmir and Jammu divisions currently have adequate stocks of petroleum products and LPG. The Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Ramesh Kumar while aporising about Jammu Division, revealed that the diesel availability stands at about 11 days and petrol around 4 days, with additional supplies in transit improving the overall position. LPG stocks in Jammu are sufficient for 8–10 days, while kerosene reserves remain comfortable, he added.
Similarly for Kashmir Division, the Divisional Commissioner, Anshul Garg divulged that the petrol and diesel stocks provide coverage of around 17–19 days, extendable up to 20–22 days with supplies in transit, while LPG stocks are sufficient for about 15 days.
The meeting also took detailed note of district-wise price trends of LPG and petroleum products, along with enforcement actions taken against violators. It was informed that strict action has been initiated against those indulging in hoarding or attempting to create artificial scarcity in the market, with a clear directive to maintain market discipline and protect consumer interests.
Availability of fuel and LPG to commercial and industrial establishments was also reviewed. The meeting was apprised that adequate arrangements are in place to ensure uninterrupted supply to key sectors. Special emphasis was laid on ensuring availability of food, cooking fuel and other essentials to critical residential institutions such as hospitals, hostels and other care facilities across all districts.
Additional Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production Department, Ashish Chandra Verma, apprised the meeting that fertilizer stocks across J&K remain stable, though continuous monitoring is essential. He advised that consumers should be encouraged to use fertilizers judiciously to maintain balanced availability.
Highlighting enforcement measures, it was informed that extensive inspections are being carried out across districts to curb violations. Necessary action, including issuance of show-cause notices and suspension of licenses, is being taken against erring entities to ensure compliance with regulations.
Commissioner Secretary, FCS&CA, Saurabh Bhagat, informed that the department has issued CTG guidelines in the UT and is actively monitoring the prices of around 40 essential commodities across markets to prevent overpricing and ensure affordability.
The meeting also reviewed grievance redressal mechanisms. It was informed that distress calls and public grievances received from different districts were given prompt attention and addressed within a defined timeframe, ensuring that no inconvenience was caused to the public.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted supply and price stability, the Chief Secretary directed the Divisional and respective district administrations to remain vigilant, strengthen coordination, and take timely measures to address any emerging challenges. The Divisional Commissioners assured that the situation is under constant review and that adequate arrangements are in place to meet public requirements without disruption—(KNO)