JAMMU: On the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri, also celebrated as Herath in Kashmir, Minister for Agriculture Production and Rural Development, Javed Ahmad Dar, today extended his hearty greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Highlighting the significance of the festival, which is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm across both Kashmir and Jammu regions, the Minister said that the festival hold deep cultural and spiritual importance for devotees, symbolising faith, unity and the spirit of togetherness.

He emphasized that such festivals reinforce the values of peace, harmony and the idea of co-existence among different communities. “These occasions remind us of our rich cultural heritage and the need to uphold communal harmony. Such auspicious occasions serve as a unifying force, bringing people together beyond religious and regional boundaries,” he said.

The Minister also underscored the role of traditional celebrations in fostering goodwill and mutual respect among all sections of the society. He expressed hope that the festival would bring happiness, prosperity and well-being to every household in Jammu and Kashmir. He urged upon the people to pray for lasting peace, development and brotherhood in the region. “May this festival strengthen the bonds of love and mutual understanding among us and inspire us to work towards a more peaceful and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir,” the Minister added.

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