JAMMU: Baldev Singh Billawaria, General Secretary of Bharatiya Janata Party Jammu Kashmir and former Deputy Mayor, has strongly advocated for lifting restrictions on the inter-state sale of Khair wood, stating that removing such curbs would significantly benefit farmers and strengthen the rural economy of the region. During a meeting with senior leaders from Pahari Zila, including Omakant Basotra, former President of the Municipal Committee Billawar, and Bikram Singh, DDC Billawar, several pressing public issues were brought to his notice. 

Among these, the burning issue of restrictions on the sale of Khair wood outside the Union Territory was highlighted as a matter of serious concern affecting a large section of the farming community.

They informed Billawaria that farmers cultivating Khair trees are facing financial distress due to limitations on selling their produce beyond the UT. They expressed strong resentment over the existing policy, stating that it restricts access to wider markets and deprives growers of competitive and fair prices. According to them, granting farmers the liberty to sell Khair wood across state boundaries would substantially enhance their income and provide much-needed economic stability to hundreds of affected families.

Responding to the concerns, Billawaria assured the leaders that every genuine issue related to the welfare and socio-economic empowerment of the farming community deserves immediate attention and prompt resolution. He emphasized that policies should enable farmers to maximize the value of their produce rather than restrict their economic opportunities.

He further said that the Union Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is deeply committed to farmers’ welfare and is consistently working to ensure that agricultural produce receives adequate market access and remunerative prices. Billawaria underlined that empowering farmers through progressive market reforms and removing unnecessary trade barriers is essential for achieving sustainable rural development.

Highlighting the significance of Khair cultivation in the region, he noted that many rural households depend on it as a vital source of livelihood. Lifting restrictions on inter-state trade, he said, would not only benefit individual farmers but also contribute to overall economic growth and prosperity in the area. Billawaria assured the delegation that he would take up the matter with the appropriate authorities to ensure a positive resolution in the larger interest of farmers and the farming community.

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