Advisor Pawan Kotwal assessed the stocking status of essential commodities in Leh and Kargil districts in preparation for the upcoming winter season on October 11.

In a comprehensive discussion during the meeting, representatives from various departments, including Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), Food Corporation of India (FCI), Cooperatives, Health, Power Development, Forest Division, Animal/Sheep and Fisheries, as well as Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), presented detailed item-wise stocking reports.

It was informed that Leh and Kargil districts possess sufficient stockpiles of essential items, encompassing food grains, petroleum products (petrol, diesel, kerosene), medicines, animal feed, and fodder, to meet the demands of the winter season.

Advisor Pawan Kotwal had earlier stressed the importance of timely dispatch of essential commodities to remote areas such as Zanskar and other far-flung regions to preempt potential delays caused by winter road closures, with a goal to have ample stocks in place until April 2024.

Advisor Kotwal directed the Deputy Commissioner to craft a comprehensive distribution plan, ensuring equitable distribution across both districts. Additionally, he advised concerned officers to establish inspection squads for regular market monitoring, with a focus on rates and the sale of expired or substandard products.

The meeting was attended by Secretary, FCS&CA, Ladakh; Secretary, Cooperatives, Ladakh; Chief Conservator of Forest, Ladakh; Deputy Commissioner of Leh and Kargil, along with heads of various departments from both Leh and Kargil districts. Representatives from IOCL, HPCL, Merchant Association, Leh/Kargil, and Cooperative Consumer Societies, Leh, also participated.

This proactive approach to winter preparations underscores the Ladakh administration's commitment to ensuring the well-being and supply stability of its residents during the challenging winter months.