SRINAGAR: The second day of the cleanliness awareness campaign for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Ganta Ghar (Clock Tower) Lal Chowk, here. Pilgrims were welcomed with a grand reception marked by cultural performances and a strong commitment to cleanliness. The event was graced by the chief guest Commissioner Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Department, Mandeep Kaur.

Among others present were Keshav Verma, Advisor to J&K Government on Smart Cities besides senior officials from SMC, LCMA, ULB, CTP and line departments. The celebration beautifully blended tradition and modernity to promote a clean pilgrimage experience.

The Housing and Urban Development Department has mobilized a dedicated Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) team in collaboration with 'Swaaha,' an IIT Indore startup, and the artists' group Hanuman Dhvaj Pathk. Their one-hour performance, "Swachhta ka Shiv Naad," used drums, cymbals and tambourines to convey a message of environmental responsibility to thousands of pilgrims.

Mandeep Kaur highlighted the significance of the awareness campaign, aiming to encourage pilgrims to minimize plastic usage and maintain cleanliness. The efforts of Srinagar Municipal Corporation and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in SANJY-2024 have been pivotal in achieving this goal. Speaking on behalf of Swaha, Shri Sameer Sharma highlighted the comprehensive cleanliness campaign led by the Housing and Urban Development Department, Jammu and Kashmir.

 Cleanliness camps have been established along the yatra route, complemented by educational programs promoting a litter-free pilgrimage. The inclusion of Nukkad Natak performances has further bolstered enthusiasm among pilgrims, fostering a collective commitment to uphold cleanliness standards and reduce plastic waste. These street plays will continue to engage pilgrims across various ULBs along the entire yatra route throughout the pilgrimage period.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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