Ensure No Artificial Scarcity Of Essentials: CM To Officials

2026-03-18 01:15:03

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) ** Srinagar-** Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday directed officials to ensure that there is no artificial scarcity or black marketing of essential commodities across the Union Territory ahead of the upcoming festivals of Eid

Fitr and Navratri.

Chairing a meeting to review the stock position of essential commodities and petroleum products in J&K, the Chief Minister stressed the need for strict monitoring at the district level, particularly in view of the festive season and prevailing tensions in West Asia.

He asked all Deputy Commissioners to maintain close oversight to prevent hoarding and black marketing of petroleum products, including LPG, and to ensure smooth supply and fair distribution of essential commodities.

“I think the administration as a whole is well aware of the situation and is on top of things. While the Food and Supplies Department does its work, this must be complemented and supplemented in the districts,” Abdullah said during the meeting.

He said the administration must remain vigilant as the duration of the present crisis remains uncertain.“We don’t know how long this will last. It could last a couple of days, it could last a few weeks. Let us assume it may last longer than we are comfortable with. Therefore, we must continue to ensure that there is no artificial scarcity or black marketing,” he said.

The Chief Minister also asked the Information Department to regularly update the public about the availability of essential commodities to prevent rumours and panic buying.

He further directed officials to closely monitor the availability of commercial LPG, particularly in view of the ongoing Navratras, the upcoming Eid festival and the start of the tourist season.

Abdullah asked the administration to consult stakeholders such as restaurant owners and hoteliers before any rationalisation of commercial LPG supply is undertaken, considering the expected tourist inflow and festive demand.

An official spokesperson said several regulatory measures have been put in place to ensure sustained availability and prevent misuse of LPG supplies.

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These include the introduction of the Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) system to ensure LPG cylinders are delivered only to genuine consumers. Oil marketing companies have also launched an e-KYC campaign to verify customers and identify inactive or duplicate LPG connections.

For non-domestic LPG supplies, a temporary cap of 20 percent of the average monthly consumption has been imposed, while ensuring uninterrupted supply to essential institutions such as hospitals and educational establishments.

The meeting was attended by ministers Sakina Itoo and Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, and Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, among other officials.

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