Chief Secretary Dr Kotwal reviews winter stocking preparedness in Ladakh.

Chief Secretary Dr Kotwal reviews winter stocking preparedness in Ladakh.
Leh, Oct 30, 2025: The Chief Secretary of UT- Ladakh, Dr Pawan Kotwal, chaired a meeting at the DC Conference Hall, Leh, to review the preparedness for winter stocking across various departments in view of the approaching winter season.
The meeting focused on ensuring uninterrupted essential supplies and services to residents, particularly in snow-bound and remote regions of Ladakh. Detailed discussions were held on department-wise action plans, availability of basic commodities, and measures to meet emergency requirements during winter.
During the review, the Chief Secretary assessed the winter stocking status of the Food Corporation of India (FCI), including the availability of food grains and the mechanism for advance disbursement of rations to consumers in snow-bound areas. He directed officials to ensure timely supply and distribution so that no household faces shortages during the peak winter months.
The Power Development Department briefed the Chief Secretary on the availability of diesel for operating DG sets, the status of power supply in remote villages, maintenance readiness, and the stock position of spare parts and batteries to tackle any contingencies. Dr Kotwal emphasised the importance of uninterrupted electricity supply, particularly in remote areas.
In the review of the Health Department, the Chief Secretary examined the availability of essential medicines, medical supplies, and upcoming procurement plans. He directed the department to expedite the dispatch of medicines and critical equipment to snow-bound regions to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services during harsh weather.
The Chief Secretary also reviewed the status of petroleum supplies with oil companies, including IOCL and the Leh bottling plant. Discussions focused on winter stocking of petroleum products, LPG cylinders, and storage capacities to meet seasonal demand.
Further, the Animal, Sheep Husbandry & Fisheries Department apprised the Chief Secretary of the stocking status of cattle feed, poultry feed, fish feed, and egg supplies. Dr Kotwal emphasised ensuring adequate availability of livestock nutrition to safeguard animal health during the winter months.
The meeting also included a review of the Forest Department regarding the availability and procurement of firewood, as well as the Cooperative and Agriculture Departments. Discussions centred on strategies for sustainable winter vegetable availability and measures to stabilise and control vegetable prices in the market.
Dr Kotwal directed all concerned departments to finalise their contingency plans, complete winter stocking on priority, and maintain close coordination to ensure smooth delivery of essential services throughout the winter season.
The meeting was attended by the Administrative Secretary, Cooperative Department, Bhupesh Chaudhary; Administrative Secretary, Power Development Department, Rahul Sharma; Deputy Commissioner, Leh, Romil Singh Donk; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Leh, Ghulam Mohd; and senior officers from various concerned departments.