JAMMU:  The Jammu and Kashmir Excise Department today strongly rebutted the news being circulated on various social media platforms regarding the increase in number of vends (Wine Shops) in Jammu & Kashmir, terming it as  fake and baseless.

A communication issued by the department in this regard stated that “As per J&K Excise Policy for the year 2025-26 notified vide SO 38 dated 15th February, 2025, 305 number of vends (Wine Shops) were put to e-auction on 15.02.2025 and after culmination of the bidding process, 271 vends got allotted through the e-auction process (which was conducted by J&K Bank) to the successful H1 bidders and rest of 34 locations are being put to re-auction through Public Notice Issued on 07.03.2025 and bidding process (again to be conducted by the J&K Bank) shall be completed on 17.03.2025 for these 34 vends.”

The document further added that, “It is relevant to mention that the number of JKEL-2 vends (Wine Shops) remained unchanged i.e. 305, since FY 2023-24 and there is no increase in the number of vends, either in Jammu or in Kashmir. The break up of the vends (Wine Shops) is: Jammu-291 and Kashmir - 14).”

All details regarding the Excise Policy along with location of the vends (Wine Shops) etc is available on the official website of the Excise Department i.e. https://jkexcise.nic.in

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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