Excelsior Correspondent
KUPWARA, Dec 18: In continuation with the Government’s public outreach programme, Minister for FCS&CA, Transport, Youth Services and Sports, IT, Science and Technology, Satish Sharma, along with Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani today reviewed the progress and performance of several departments during a meeting held at Kupwara.
The meeting was attended by MLA Kupwara Mir Mohammad Fayaz, MLA Karnah Javid Ahmad Mirchal, MLA Langate Khurshid Ahmad Sheikh, Deputy Commissioner Kupwara Shrikant Suse, ADC Handwara, RTO Kashmir, Joint Director FCS&CA and Joint Director Youth Services & Sports, Chief Planning Officer and other concerned district officers.
While reviewing the Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department, the Minister was informed that a total of 6,67,755 beneficiaries have been registered under NFSA and non-NFSA categories in the district. It was further informed that 267.81 metric tonnes of rice have currently been stocked at the main FCS&CA depot at Bumhama. Adequate stock of rice, atta and sugar have already been pre-positioned in border and snow-bound areas, including Karnah, Machil, Keran, Budnamal, Jumgund and Kumkadi, which are being serviced through 170 centres.
The Minister emphasized the need to ensure an uninterrupted supply of essential commodities, particularly in snow-bound and hard-to-reach areas, so that the residents do not face any inconvenience during harsh weather conditions.
Reviewing the Transport Department, the ARTO Kupwara apprised the Minister of the number of passenger buses, trucks and cabs operating in the district. It was informed that Rs 15.91 crore have been realized during the ongoing financial year 2025-26 through fees, taxes, fitness and passenger tax. Additionally, Rs 5 lakh have been disbursed under the Road Accident Victim Fund during the current year.
Responding to demand of public representatives, the Minister announced the issuance of Government buses to all Assembly Constituencies of the district to facilitate daily commuting for the public.
Regarding solarization of government buildings, it was informed that 398 buildings have been solarized so far, and smart meters have been installed in 17 buildings. Additionally, 2,798 solar street lights have been installed during the financial year 2024-25 while 344 more have been proposed for installation in the current financial year.
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