BARAMULLA: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar, today reviewed the current status and future development roadmap of Sopore Fruit Mandi during a meeting held at Baramulla.

The meeting was convened in pursuance of directions issued during the District Development Board meeting chaired by the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. It emphasised on preparing a holistic plan for modernization of the Sopore Fruit Mandi and augmentation of facilities. Today’s meeting was chaired by the Minister, during which a detailed and threadbare review was held with the concerned officers and stakeholders.

While reviewing the progress, the Minister noted that Sopore Fruit Mandi, recognized as Asia’s second-largest fruit market after Azadpur Mandi, Delhi, occupies a pivotal position in Jammu & Kashmir’s horticulture-driven economy. The focus, he emphasized, is on systematic infrastructure upgradation, improved facilities and operational efficiency, rather than mere expansion in size.

During the meeting, key issues including the need for additional parking space, requirement of land for truck yard, solid waste management, establishment of facilities such as a medical dispensary and labour sarai and widening of the main approach road to the mandi were discussed in detail.

The Minister directed the Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla, to prepare and submit a comprehensive, holistic modernization proposal in light of the deliberations for appropriate decision at the Government level.

Reiterating the Government’s commitment towards strengthening the agricultural marketing infrastructure, the Minister said that modern, transparent and efficient market systems will significantly benefit the farmers and traders alike. He also directed that impetus should be given on development of  cold storage facilities, hi-tech grading lines, portable graders  to strengthen the supply chain from “farm to market,” minimize post-harvest losses and ensure better returns to growers connected to the Mandi.

The meeting was attended by Irshad Rasool Kar, MLA Sopore, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Minga Sherpa, senior officers from the Agriculture Production Department and allied sectors and officers of the district administration.

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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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