JAMMU: A deputation of farmers from Jammu border district, led by Rakesh Pant, General Secretary of BJP Kisaan Morcha, called on BJP President Sat Sharma CA to submit a memorandum seeking his help in exemption from the tax levied on tractors used for agricultural purposes.

The deputation expressed concern over the imposition of a 9 percent tax on Indian-made tractors used for agricultural activities within Jammu and Kashmir. According to the memorandum, the farmers pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been consistently promoting the use of India-made machinery to boost domestic manufacturing and support the 'Make in India' initiative. However, they argued that the current policy in Jammu and Kashmir contradicts this vision.

The farmers noted that the government has provided rebates on foreign-made tractors, while Indian-made tractors face heavy taxation, a practice not observed in any other state or union territory across the country. This disparity, the deputation stated, places an unfair burden on local farmers who are striving to make a livelihood through agriculture.

Sat Sharma CA assured the members of the deputation to take up the issue with the UT government to reconsider its stance and provide tax exemptions for tractors used exclusively for agricultural purposes, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision of promoting indigenous machinery.

He assured the deputation that the matter would be actively pursued to seek a favorable resolution. He reiterated the party’s commitment to the welfare of farmers and highlighted various schemes implemented by the central government aimed at improving the agricultural sector.

Rakesh Pant said that the farmers are sure that their concerns will be addressed promptly, paving the way for a policy that supports their interests and promotes the use of Indian-made machinery. BJP Spokesperson Balbir Ram Rattan, Media Incharge Dr. Pardeep Mahotra and other party leaders were present on the occasion.

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