Residents of Jammu and Kashmir are currently facing distress and uncertainty as their food ration quota has been reduced by 50percentover the past three years. This decrease in the allocation of rice has left individuals feeling marginalised and deprived. The situation has sparked discontent among the people, who are expressing their concerns about their ability to meet their fundamental need for an adequate food supply.
There is a clear disparity in rice allocation between Jammu and Kashmir and many other States/UT like Karnataka. While Karnataka is reportedly receiving an average of 10 kg of rice per person, Jammu and Kashmir is receiving ration quota of 5 kg only. Indeed, the continuous fall in rice quota over the past three years in Jammu and Kashmir is a serious matter. It raises concerns about the availability of an essential food item in the region and its potential impact on the residents’ access to an adequate food supply. The reduction in rice quota can have significant implications for the nutritional needs and overall well-being of the people, particularly those belonging to the Priority Household(PHH) category, who now receive only 5 kg of rice instead of 10 kg. It can lead to feelings of marginalisation and deprivation among the residents, as expressed by the locals. The situation becomes more challenging when coupled with the rising prices of essential items and already strained household budgets.
Authorities need to address this issue promptly, even if it requires some additional rice provision by the local administration. Adequate measures should be taken to evaluate the reasons behind the decline in rice quota for three years and work towards finding a resolution that ensures sufficient food grain distribution in Jammu and Kashmir. It is vital to prioritise the needs of the affected population and take steps to alleviate their plight and restore their confidence in accessing an ample supply of food grains.
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