Srinagar: The government has said that Kashmir is receiving regular supplies of medicines and that there is no shortage in the region.
It said that this clarification is due after a news report has suggested otherwise and reports of hoarding of medicines and panic among the general public as a result of it are being received from different areas.
It said that there are sufficient stocks of all kinds of medicines available for at least one month with stockists in Kashmir — adding that regular supplies are being received from Jammu from where bulk – around three-fourths – of Kashmir’s retail market requirement is catered.
These drugs include both life-saving medicines and those categorised as general drugs. The former include all major kinds ranging from anti-cancer to insulin preparations to respiratory to nephrology to critical care.
It said the remaining requirement of 25-30 percent is being received from Delhi in special Indian Airforce (IAF) flights as and when required.
The government has urged the general public not to heed unofficial sources. It said that such tactics are used to create artificial scarcity which hoarders use to their advantage. Meanwhile the government has issued strict warnings against hoarders of medicines and those indulging in rumours suggesting shortage. It warned that strict action under law will be initiated against offenders