Despite heavy snowfall across several parts of the state, the government has ensured uninterrupted food security for all beneficiaries, Chairman of the State Food Commission Dr. S. P. Katyal said on Wednesday.
Dr. Katyal stated that while severe weather conditions have temporarily disrupted power supply and internet connectivity in some areas—impacting the functioning of Point of Sale (PoS) machines at Fair Price Shops—the State Food Commission, in coordination with the state government and district administrations, has taken timely measures to ensure that no beneficiary is deprived of their entitled ration.
He informed that adequate ration stocks are available at all Fair Price Shops, including those located in tribal and snow-bound regions. As part of proactive planning, beneficiaries in tribal areas have already been permitted to lift their ration entitlement up to March 2026.
In regions where monthly ration distribution has been affected due to snowfall, the Commission has recommended activation of the Backlog Distribution Option, enabling smooth distribution once power supply and connectivity are restored.
Dr. Katyal added that district authorities have been directed to promptly identify and report affected areas, especially those facing power and connectivity disruptions, along with the status of ration distribution. Instructions have also been issued to activate the backlog option without delay wherever required.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to food security, he said the State Food Commission is closely monitoring the situation in real time and working in close coordination with local authorities to address ground-level challenges swiftly.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
