BHADERWAH: District Development Council (DDC) Chairman Doda Dhananter Singh Kotwal today flagged off the annual Chandi Mata Yatra from Cheka Gurakha to the revered shrine of Chandi Mata located at Dudu Basantgarh. The yatra marks a significant spiritual journey undertaken by hundreds of devotees each year to seek blessings and participate in the sacred tradition.

The flag-off ceremony witnessed the participation of a large number of enthusiastic pilgrims, local residents and community leaders. The air was filled with chants of devotion as devotees, dressed in traditional attire, began their journey amid spiritual fervor. The shrine of Chandi Mata at Dudu Basantgarh is considered a powerful centre of faith and devotion, attracting pilgrims from various parts of the district and neighboring regions.

While addressing the gathering, the DDC Chairman emphasized the spiritual, cultural and unifying significance of the yatra. He praised the role of local administration, police and volunteers in ensuring smooth arrangements and security during the pilgrimage. He urged the pilgrims to uphold cleanliness, maintain discipline and support the spirit of harmony during the journey.

The Chandi Mata Yatra is not only a religious event but also an occasion that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. It strengthens communal bonds and brings together people from different walks of life in a shared expression of faith and devotion. The DDC Chairman extended his heartfelt wishes for a safe, peaceful and spiritually fulfilling yatra to all the participants.

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