JAMMU: The Jammu & Kashmir unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) extended a heartfelt welcome to the devotees undertaking the sacred Amarnath Yatra, which began on July 3 and will continue till August 9.

Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters in Trikuta Nagar, Jammu, BJP Spokesperson Rajni Sethi and BJP Media Incharge Dr. Pardeep Mahotra reaffirmed the party’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and memorable pilgrimage for all Amarnath Yatris. BJP Secretary Anju Dogra was also present during the interaction.

Rajni Sethi stated that Jammu and Kashmir is renowned not only for its natural beauty but also for its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and the spirit of brotherhood among its people. As the sacred Amarnath Yatra begins from July 3 to August 9, BJP Jammu & Kashmir extends a heartfelt welcome to all devotees from across India and abroad.

Recalling the tragic terror attack of April 22, 2025, in which innocent tourists were targeted by Pakistan-sponsored terrorists, she noted that such acts have failed to weaken the people’s resolve. Despite the attack, over 4 lakh pilgrims have already registered this year, reaffirming that faith is stronger than fear. She appreciated the strong security arrangements, efficient facilities, and the overwhelming support from local Kashmiris, who are actively helping and welcoming yatris. The post-Article 370 era has brought a visible change, yatris are now respected and protected by all communities.

Sethi called on all political parties to support the yatra beyond politics and promote communal harmony. She emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir stands as a symbol of unity, peace, and shared spirituality. Dr. Pardeep Mahotra highlighted that every stakeholder must play a proactive role in making the yatra a spiritually fulfilling and logistically sound experience. He praised Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for initiatives like the Tawi Aarti and acknowledged the efforts of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the Kashmir valley. However, he urged for more robust, year-round measures to promote tourism across all regions, particularly Jammu, which he said had been ignored for decades.

Dr. Mahotra urged CM Omar Abdullah to take personal initiative in leading the tourism department and other allied services to ensure flawless arrangements for the yatris. He stressed the urgent need to focus on power, water, health, transportation, cultural programming, and digital information systems. Highlighting the yatris as ambassadors of goodwill, he said their satisfaction can significantly enhance J&K’s image as a premier spiritual and tourist destination.

He concluded by urging the government to optimally utilize the Modi government’s infrastructure and tourism-boosting initiatives, with special focus on developing and showcasing the rich yet underexplored tourist sites of Jammu.

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