SAMBA: The District Administration Samba, in collaboration with the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages and the Civil Society Samba, organized a grand Baisakhi Mela at the historic Samba Fort. The event was celebrated under the impactful theme "Say No to Drugs", promoting a message of a healthy, drug-free, and clean society.

The celebrations saw enthusiastic participation from children amid vibrant cultural performances including traditional dances and folk music. Local artists added to the energy of the event through engaging nukkad nataks (street plays) and soulful singing, all focused on the central theme of Nasha Mukt Bharat (Drug-Free India). The performances convey powerful messages on drug prevention, cleanliness, and civic responsibility.

In addition to promoting cultural heritage, the event also emphasized the importance of maintaining hygiene and cleanliness. The artists incorporated these themes in their performances, encouraging the public to keep their surroundings clean and avoid littering.

The Mela was graced by the presence of several dignitaries from the District Administration including Deputy Commissioner Samba, Rajesh Sharma, Additional Deputy Commissioner Jagdish Singh, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, District Information Officer, and other officers. Representatives from Civil Society Samba, including retired ZEO Shiv Charan Singh, President Amardeep Singh, General Secretary Dr. Jagdeep Singh, and a large number of local residents also attended the event, enjoying the festivities and appreciating the meaningful cultural showcase.

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