Jammu Kashmir: Unsafe Samples Rise as Enforcement Figures Raise Questions | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Food adulteration and enforcement gaps came under discussion in the Assembly as the government laid detailed data on food sampling, prosecutions, laboratory infrastructure and border surveillance mechanisms in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

According to the figures tabled, a total of 9,046 food samples were lifted during 2023–24, of which 34 were declared unsafe. In 2024–25, 7,251 samples were collected and 33 were found unsafe. However, in 2025–26 (till January 31, 2026), while the number of samples lifted dropped to 5,682, the number declared unsafe rose sharply to 130.

The data indicates a declining trend in overall sampling over the past three years, accompanied by a significant increase in unsafe findings during the current financial year. The development has raised concerns about the prevalence of adulterated food items in the market and the effectiveness of preventive mechanisms.

On enforcement, the government reported 1,467 prosecutions in 2023–24, 994 in 2024–25, and 967 in 2025–26 (till January 31). The number of cases decided with conviction was reported as 1,682 in 2023–24, 1,296 in 2024–25 and 1,528 in 2025–26, with conviction rates stated at 114.65 per cent, 130.38 per cent and 158.01 per cent respectively. The figures suggest that disposals during these years included cases instituted in previous periods.

Regarding laboratory infrastructure, the government informed that there are two National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) accredited and Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) notified food testing laboratories in the UT—one each in Jammu and Kashmir divisions.

The Jammu laboratory is currently notified for 27 parameters, while approval for 327 additional parameters is awaited. The Srinagar laboratory is notified for 354 parameters, limited to cereal and cereal products, spices and condiments, milk and milk products, fats and oils, and fruits and vegetables, including heavy metals and other quality and safety parameters.

On border surveillance, the government stated that under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, Food Safety Officers (FSOs) are posted at the block level to implement the provisions of the Act. Presently, 101 blocks across Jammu and Kashmir, including border areas, are covered by FSOs either on substantive postings or additional charge.

While the official response emphasised coverage and infrastructure, the rise in unsafe samples and declining sampling numbers are likely to intensify debate on the adequacy of enforcement and monitoring mechanisms to curb food adulteration in the region.