In response to rising concerns about food security in Jammu and Kashmir, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Satish Sharma, confirmed today that there is no shortage of food grains in the Keran and Jamgund areas of Kupwara district. This announcement came during a Legislative Assembly session, where he addressed questions raised by MLA Mir Saifullah.
During the session, Mir Saifullah had expressed his worries regarding the unavailability of essential food commodities in these remote regions, particularly during the harsh winter months when heavy snowfall often isolates these areas. The MLA pointed out that residents of Keran and Jamgund can remain cut off for nearly six months, leading to severe shortages.
Minister Sharma assured the Assembly that the government proactively addresses these concerns by ensuring that there is a systematic supply of essential food grains. He emphasized that the government implements advance dumping and supply mechanisms for a span of eight months, from November through June, to sustain these areas well ahead of winter and road closures.
Providing specific figures, Sharma highlighted the efficient food grain distribution in Jamgund. For the upcoming winter period of November 2025 to June 2026, the region requires 536.14 quintals of food grains, and he reported that the government has successfully delivered 100% of this requirement.
In terms of the Keran area, the situation remains equally reassuring. Sharma reported that out of the required 2774.43 quintals of food grains, 800 quintals have already been successfully transported and received. Furthermore, an advance supply of 346.80 quintals has been deposited at designated locations to preempt any shortages once the winter begins.
“The remaining quantity will be delivered and stocked by or before October 31, 2025,” assured Sharma. He reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring uninterrupted food supply chains for all remote and border regions in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly during harsh weather conditions.
This collaborative approach aims not only to safeguard food security but also to bolster the confidence of residents living in these inaccessible areas, reassuring them that their needs will be met despite formidable climatic challenges.
