Thathri, September 29: A delegation of Civil Society Thathri submitted a detailed representation to Director, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA) Jammu, Rajesh Kumar Shavan (JKAS), during his visit to Thathri, highlighting several issues related to the Public Distribution System (PDS), food security, LPG services, and consumer welfare in the Chenab Valley region.
The representation sought immediate attention towards strengthening the Public Distribution System, increasing the number of Fair Price Shops, ensuring the availability of essential commodities at subsidized rates, facilitating the inclusion of eligible beneficiaries under PHH and AAY categories, and improving food security measures in remote and mountainous areas. The memorandum also requested the introduction of a mechanism for making rice and other essential commodities available at government-prescribed rates during marriages, funerals, religious functions, and other important social occasions. 0
During the interaction, the delegation emphasized that residents of remote villages continue to face difficulties due to limited access to ration depots and the non-availability of essential commodities such as pulses, edible oil, sugar, and iodized salt through the Public Distribution System. Concerns were also raised regarding the inclusion of newly eligible beneficiaries and family members under the Priority Household (PHH) and Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) categories, which directly affects access to welfare benefits and Ayushman Bharat Golden Cards.
Responding to the representation, Director Rajesh Kumar Shavan assured the delegation that the department would examine the issues raised and take necessary steps wherever feasible. He informed the delegation that a Model Fair Price Shop would be established in Thathri. The proposed outlet will provide various essential commodities to the public in addition to the routine distribution of wheat and rice under the Public Distribution System.
The issue of LPG services in the region was also discussed during the meeting. Manoj Kumar and Anzer Ayoob, members of Civil Society Thathri, highlighted the difficulties faced by consumers and demanded the establishment of an additional LPG extension counter in Thathri to improve accessibility for residents of the area. They also raised concerns regarding delays and challenges in obtaining new LPG connections.
On the matter, the Director assured the delegation that the issue would be taken up with the concerned authorities for appropriate action. He acknowledged the importance of improving LPG services in remote areas and assured that the concerns conveyed by the delegation would be examined.
Civil Society Thathri welcomed the positive response from the Director and expressed hope that the department would implement the proposed measures in a time-bound manner. The organization stated that improved access to essential commodities, stronger ration distribution infrastructure, better LPG services, and the inclusion of deserving beneficiaries would significantly benefit residents of Thathri and the wider Chenab Valley region.
The representation was submitted on behalf of the residents of Thathri Sub-Division and surrounding areas, reflecting long-standing public concerns regarding food security, consumer welfare, and accessibility of essential services in the mountainous districts of Jammu and Kashmir.
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