Srinagar, Nov 07 (KNS): Chairman Jammu and Kashmir People’s Democratic Front (J&KPDF) and former Minister Hakeem Mohammed Yaseen on Sunday urged Central government to extend the free ration under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKAY-3) beyond November 30.

He said recently government declared snowfall as the natural calamity in Kashmir that devasted hundreds of families in south Kashmir but on other hand they are stopping free ration under PMGKAY.

"From the past several years, the ape industry in the region suffered massive blow following the climatic conditions. This year too snowfall damaged the fruit laden orchards in Kashmir," Hakeem said.

The senior leader said If govt declared themselves as snowfall as natural disaster in Valley and it is not proper time to stop the ration.

Hakeem urged Central government to revert its decision and provide free ration to people in view of pandemic and economic conditions.

"The scheme should work as it was till next 6-7 months, so that it will be sigh of relief to common people in the Valley," he said.

Earlier following the pandemic, free ration was provided by the government after the nationwide lockdown was announced last year was a huge difference-maker in the lives of millions of people, who were left struggling due to the pandemic.

J&K PDF Chairman said the government's decision to discontinue the free ration is a setback to hundreds of poor families, who are still struggling due to COVID-19 pandemic.

"Narendra Modi led centre government should review the decision and so that poor people will not suffer anymore in the pandemic," he said. (KNS)