JAMMU: Member Legislative Assembly Jammu East Yudhvir Sethi on Tuesday inaugurated a series of heritage and urban up-gradation projects in different parts of Jammu city, including the statue of Raja Jambu Lochan, theme-based cultural statues at Indira Chowk and the upgraded Brigadier Rajinder Singh Rotary. The projects have been executed by Jammu Smart City as part of its vision to integrate heritage conservation with modern urban development.

MLA Yudhvir Sethi, accompanied by CEO Jammu Smart City Dr. Devansh Yadav unveiled the statue of Raja Jambu Lochan, the legendary founder of Jammu, at Old Mandi Park. The statue commemorates the historical legacy of Raja Jambu Lochan, after whom the city derives its name. Additionally, theme-based cultural statues installed at Indira Chowk were also unveiled by the MLA.

These installations depict traditional Dogra art forms and cultural expressions, including folk musicians and performers, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. The initiative aims to transform Indira Chowk into a cultural landmark, while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of one of the city’s busiest traffic junctions.

The MLA also inaugurated the upgraded Brigadier Rajinder Singh Rotary, redeveloped as a memorial to honour the first recipient of the Maha Vir Chakra. A hero of the 1947 conflict, Brigadier Rajinder Singh is remembered for courageously delaying enemy advances with a small contingent of soldiers, an act widely credited with safeguarding Jammu and Kashmir during a critical period.

Addressing the gathering, the MLA lauded the efforts of Jammu Smart City and the Jammu Municipal Corporation for reviving and showcasing Jammu’s history and culture through public art and urban renewal projects. He said such initiatives strengthen the city’s cultural identity, instill pride among residents and contribute to heritage-based tourism.

He further added that development projects rooted in history and culture can help boost tourism, support local businesses, and provide new economic opportunities for traders, while giving Jammu a distinct and recognisable identity. Prominent citizens, senior officials of the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) and Jammu Smart City Limited (JSCL) along with local residents 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