Officials Discover Insect-Infested Bags, Larvae and Pest-Damaged Wheat During Inspection; Quality of Public Distribution Ration Raises Serious Concerns
Kishtwar, October 19, 2026 | By Asif Iqbal Naik
In a major development raising concerns over the quality of foodgrains supplied under the Public Distribution System (PDS), the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA) Department in Padder, Kishtwar, has rejected seven consignments of wheat after officials reportedly discovered severe insect infestation, larvae and signs of deterioration during an initial inspection.
According to an official communication dated October 18, 2026, the Tehsil Supply Officer (TSO), Padder, directed the Manager, Food Corporation of India (FCI), PWS Kishtwar, to take back the entire consignment after the wheat was found unsuitable for acceptance.
Insects, Larvae and Damaged Grains Found
During the inspection, officials reportedly discovered crawling insects and larvae on the exterior of the gunny bags. The wheat grains also showed visible signs of pest damage and deterioration, producing a heavy powdery residue when handled.
The department described the condition of the supplied wheat as unacceptable and attached photographic evidence of the allegedly contaminated bags and damaged grains to support its decision.
Seven Challans Rejected and Returned
The rejected shipment covered seven challans dated October 17, 2026, bearing numbers 56, 57, 59, 63, 64, 65 and 66, issued under FCS&CA/PEG.
The wheat was transported in seven vehicles bearing registration numbers JK17-9486, JK02CR-7086, JK06A-4705, JK02BK-2027, JK06-1671, JK02CG-9916 and JK02AL-1197.
Following the inspection, the TSO ordered the return of the entire consignment to the supplying agency on October 18.
Serious Questions Over Foodgrain Quality
The incident has raised concerns regarding the storage, transportation and quality-control procedures followed before foodgrains are delivered to government ration stores.
Wheat supplied through the public distribution network is intended for eligible households, making its quality and safety particularly important.
The reported presence of insects, larvae and pest-damaged grains has highlighted the need for stronger inspection mechanisms and accountability throughout the foodgrain supply chain.
Report Forwarded to Senior Authorities
Copies of the official communication have been forwarded to the Assistant Director, FCS&CA Department, Kishtwar, and the FCI-PWS Supervisor, Kishtwar, for information and necessary action.
However, the communication does not disclose the total quantity of rejected wheat, whether any part of the consignment had already been distributed, or when replacement stock would be supplied.
It also remains unclear whether a formal inquiry has been initiated or responsibility fixed for the condition of the foodgrains.
FCI Response Awaited
As of the information available in the official communication, the Food Corporation of India’s response to the reported contamination had not been received.
The rejection of seven wheat consignments has brought renewed attention to the need for strict quality checks, proper storage practices and effective monitoring to ensure that foodgrains supplied through government channels meet prescribed standards before reaching beneficiaries.
