RAMBAN: Ahead of the finalisation of the Master Plans for Ramban and Banihal towns, the Deputy Commissioner, Mohammad Alyas Khan today chaired a meeting of concerned officers and officials to review the draft proposals and issued necessary directions for incorporating locally identified aspects before submission for final approval.

The meeting was attended by Chief Planning Officer Dr. Shakeeb Ahmed Rather; ACR Shokat Hayat Mattoo; SDM Banihal Mohammad Naseeb Bajran; Chief Executive Officer Municipal Council Ramban Surdeshan Jamwal; Tehsildars, Executive Officer Municipal Committee Banihal and other concerned officers.

The Deputy Commissioner discussed the objectives, methodology and salient features of the draft Master Plans. He stated that the plans aim to make Ramban and Banihal vibrant and future-ready towns by rationalising land use, curbing haphazard growth, addressing infrastructure gaps and promoting sustainable and systematic urban development. “Parnote land subsidence area and the likely impact of the upcoming Sawalkote Hydro Power Project on low-lying areas identified under the Ramban Master Plan be carefully factored into the plan proposals,” the Deputy Commissioner directed.

Emphasising inclusive and realistic planning, the Deputy Commissioner instructed the Town Planning Organisation to consider all genuine suggestions and inputs of concerned stakeholders so that the final Master Plans truly reflect local aspirations and set a strong foundation for sustainable growth and improved quality of life in both towns.

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