SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Minister Satish Sharma on Thursday held a series of meetings with senior Punjab Government officials to address the long-pending issues faced by mutton dealers, with the neighbouring state issuing immediate directions to concerned departments for resolving their concerns.
Sharma, who holds the portfolios of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, met Punjab’s Animal and Sheep Husbandry Minister, Chief Secretary, Secretary Science & Technology, and Secretary Rural Development & Panchayati Raj.
The discussions primarily focused on ensuring smooth movement of livestock and addressing challenges faced by mutton traders, who have been seeking a practical solution to issues affecting their business operations.
During the meetings, Sharma raised the concerns of mutton dealers and stressed the need for better coordination between Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab to facilitate hassle-free livestock transportation while maintaining compliance with regulatory norms.
Following the discussions, the Punjab Government directed its departments to initiate measures for resolving the issues. Officials said the steps are expected to ease difficulties faced by traders and strengthen coordination between the two governments.
Sharma said protecting the interests of traders and ensuring an uninterrupted supply of essential commodities remains a priority for the government. He welcomed Punjab’s response, describing it as an example of inter-state cooperation.
The meetings also covered collaboration in animal husbandry, including livestock management, disease control, scientific breeding practices, and improvement of veterinary services through the exchange of expertise.
In separate discussions with senior officials, Sharma explored cooperation in science and technology, innovation, digital governance, and research, highlighting the role of technology in improving public service delivery.
The issue of drug abuse was also discussed, with Sharma reviewing Punjab’s anti-drug measures, including its community-based approach involving Village Defence Committees and a dedicated 24×7 monitoring mechanism.
The minister said such initiatives would be examined for possible implementation in Jammu and Kashmir to strengthen anti-drug efforts and protect youth from narcotics.
Sharma thanked the Punjab Government for its cooperation and assured mutton dealers that the J&K Government would continue engaging with stakeholders to resolve their concerns in a time-bound manner.
