DODA: The sacred Mindhal Chandi Mata Yatra was flagged off today from Doda town by Member Legislative Assembly (MLA) Shakti Raj Parihar and Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh.  A large gathering of devotees from across the district witnessed the auspicious commencement of the annual pilgrimage to the revered shrine of Chandi Mata in Mindhal, Himachal Pradesh.

Addressing the pilgrims, MLA Shakti Raj Parihar extended heartfelt wishes and expressed deep reverence for the holy journey. “This yatra is a symbol of our cultural heritage and unwavering devotion. May Chandi Mata bless all pilgrims with strength, prosperity and protection. I appeal to all yatris to uphold discipline, unity and spiritual decorum during the pilgrimage,” he stated. He also commended the district administration for making comprehensive arrangements to support the devotees.

Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh described the yatra as a shining example of communal harmony and spiritual unity. He offered prayers at the departure point and interacted with the pilgrims. “The district administration has ensured all necessary logistical and safety arrangements for the yatis, including transportation, healthcare, drinking water, and security. Let this sacred journey carry forward the message of peace, devotion, and collective faith,” he remarked.

To facilitate the smooth conduct of the yatra, the administration deployed civil and police officials at the flag-off site, ensuring crowd management and assistance to the pilgrims. The event concluded with spiritual chants, traditional rituals, and a devotional send-off, as yatrees embarked on their soulful journey to seek the divine blessings of Chandi Mata.

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