Minister for Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs, Satish Sharma, addressed the Legislative House today, affirming that there is no shortage of food grains in the Keran and Jamgund areas of Kupwara district. His remarks come in response to a Calling Attention Motion raised by MLA Mir Saifullah, who voiced concerns regarding the availability of essential food supplies in these remote regions.
MLA Mir Saifullah highlighted significant challenges faced by the local population, particularly noting that the regions of Keran and Jamgund remain completely cut off for nearly six months each winter. Heavy snowfall often leads to stark shortages of essential commodities, amplifying the necessity for reliable supply.
In a detailed response, Minister Sharma elaborated on government initiatives to ensure food security in these challenging circumstances. He stated that the government implements a strategy to dump and supply food grains under various schemes in advance, specifically for an eight-month duration spanning from November to June. This proactive measure ensures that the necessary provisions reach these inaccessible and border areas well ahead of the winter road closures.
Providing clear statistics, Minister Sharma detailed the food grain distribution for the upcoming winter season. For Jamgund, he reported that while the total required quantity stands at 536.14 quintals for the period from November 2025 to June 2026, 100% of this quantity has already been successfully delivered. This reflects the government’s dedication to meeting the dietary needs of residents.
Similarly, regarding Keran, Minister Sharma noted that from the required 2774.43 quintals of food grains, 800 quintals have already been transported and received at designated locations. Furthermore, an additional 346.80 quintals have been stockpiled in advance to prepare for the winter. He stressed that the remaining quantity will be delivered by or before October 31, 2025, reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring a continuous food supply.
Experts in food security have highlighted the importance of these measures, particularly for remote areas like Keran and Jamgund. Dr. Neeta Kumar, a renowned food security analyst, stated, “The government’s proactive approach in ensuring that these areas receive adequate food supplies before winter is crucial. It alleviates potential crises and addresses the challenges posed by geographical isolation.”
In his address, Satish Sharma also reassured lawmakers and citizens that the government continually monitors these supply chains to ensure their effectiveness. The welfare of individuals living in marginal areas remains a priority, and significant efforts are underway to bolster food security in Jammu and Kashmir.
The government’s focus on food grains and overall supply stability emerges as a vital aspect of its rural development strategy. As winter approaches, such assurances are essential not only for the residents of Keran and Jamgund but also for similar remote regions throughout the state.
