21-day fuel stock available in J&K, kerosene supply resumed to prevent shortages, help people: Minister Satish Sharma

Srinagar, Mar 16: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Satish Sharma on Monday said the government has around 21 days of fuel and essential commodity stock in Jammu and Kashmir and that kerosene supply has been restarted to ensure people do not face shortages.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the inauguration of the Tulip Show by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Minister Sharma said the administration is closely monitoring supplies and will take strict action against those involved in black-marketing.

“We have sufficient stock for around 21 days. Some people have been found involved in black-marketing and whoever is found guilty—whether it is a petrol pump or gas agency their licence will be cancelled,” he said.

The minister said that although Jammu and Kashmir had earlier become a kerosene-free region, the government has now reintroduced kerosene supply to provide additional relief to consumers during the current situation.

“We were a kerosene-free state, but we have started kerosene distribution again, which will provide significant support to people,” he said.

He said the government’s priority is to ensure that essential commodities remain available and that people do not face difficulties.

“We are servants of the people. Anyone involved in adulteration or hoarding will face strict action, no matter how influential,” he said.

Commenting on the situation, the minister said peace should remain the priority and expressed hope that tensions would ease soon. “We want peace. Hate has always been defeated by love and we hope the situation ends soon,” he said.

Minister Sharma also said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah the government is committed to development and strengthening the region’s tourism sector.

Calling Kashmir “the Switzerland of India” he said the government expects a record tourist footfall this year, especially with the opening of the Tulip Garden.

“We hope tourists will arrive in record numbers and there will be no inconvenience to them. Our focus remains prosperity and progress,” he said.—(KNO)