SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday inaugurated the Almond Bloom Festival-2025 at Badamwari (Almond Alcove) in Srinagar’s historic old city, heralding the arrival of spring in Kashmir.  “With blossoms in full glory, their fragrance fills every corner, marking the arrival of spring in Kashmir. This festival is not just a celebration of nature’s beauty but also an effort to boost tourism and promote our cultural heritage,” Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said.

The event was organized by the Tourism Department in collaboration with the Floriculture Department and witnessed participation from top officials, artists and a large number of visitors, including students and tourists. Minister of Transport Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Director Floriculture, Director Tourism, and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

The highlight of the festival was a grand cultural and musical show, featuring mesmerizing performances by renowned Kashmiri artists. Their soulful music captivated the audience, adding to the charm of the event. The festival also included traditional folk performances, handicraft exhibitions and stalls showcasing Kashmiri handicrafts giving visitors a taste of the Valley’s rich cultural heritage.

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