SRINAGAR: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today chaired the 29th meeting of the Executive Body of the Mubarak Mandi Jammu Heritage Society (MMJHS), focusing on the adaptive reuse of the restored heritage structures and creating allied infrastructure for the increasing footfall to the conserved site.  The meeting addressed the crucial agenda points concerning the ongoing conservation, adaptive reuse and development of the Mubarak Mandi Royal Palace Complex, a significant heritage site in Jammu.

Present in the meeting were Principal Secretary, Culture; Secretary, Law; Executive Director, MMJHS; MD, Cable Car Corporation and Director, Archives, Archaeology & Museums.

The Chief Secretary impressed upon the MMJHS to take proactive measures towards expeditious completion of the ongoing works besides focusing on adaptive reuse of the structures restored till date. He observed that the heritage complex is an iconic tourism project in the heart of the Jammu city and its potential should be optimally utilized in attracting the heritage lovers towards this site. He emphasized that this place should be made a culturally vibrant place as the culture and heritage are closely interlinked.

Earlier, Principal Secretary, Culture, Brij Mohan Sharma, gave an outline of the Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex (MMHC) conservation measures and the achievements made so far, in this direction. He also threw light on the objectives of the department in conserving this complex and the future roadmap for its rejuvenation as the thriving tourist hub in the Jammu region.

Executive Director, MMJHS, Deepika Sharma, gave a detailed overview of the progress made on ongoing conservation works besides the status of other infrastructure required to make this complex much more attractive for the tourists.

The meeting discussed an updated adaptive reuse plan for Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex, developed in collaboration with INTACH. The plan proposes innovative uses for conserved structures, including museums, educational spaces, and awareness initiatives, for buildings like Raja Ram Singh Palace, Raja Amar Singh Palace, Darbar Hall and Dogra Museum.

The Executive Body deliberated on the adaptive re-use of the Old Library Building as a cafeteria, a project restored by JSCL at an allotted cost of ₹3.14 crore.

The meeting also discussed the construction of a multi-level parking facility for the complex. This facility, estimated to cost Rs 20-25 crore, will be executed by the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) with a two-year completion target. JMC has identified an area of 1517 sqm to accommodate 200-230 four-wheelers and 130-150 two-wheelers in a 4-5 storey structure.

 Other important projects that were part of today’s Executive Body agenda constituted construction of a 250 metre span bridge connecting the Circular Road with Mubarak Mandi. The project estimated at Rs 23.50 crore is being executed by PWD (R&B) Div Jammu East, the meeting was informed.

The progress on vertical lift from Peer Kho to Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex assigned to JKCCCL in 2021, was also discussed. Additionally, the hiring of transaction advisors for MMJHS projects would be taken up under PPP mode.

The meeting also deliberated on expediting Phase II works for Royal Courts/Gadvai Khana/Badi Deodi, revamping Andheri Gali and surrounding areas, bolstering the in-house conservation team and addressing the security concerns due to multiple access points

The meeting concluded with directives for expedited action on pending issues and continued efforts towards comprehensive development and preservation of the Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex as a landmark tourism hub inside Jammu city.

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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