DANSAL: In a significant outcome of the strong protest led by MLA Nagrota, Devyani Rana, against the acute water crisis in the constituency, the Jal Shakti (PHE) Department has accorded administrative approval for the restoration of the long-defunct dug well at Hurlani (Kapotha) in Dansal. The dug well had remained non-functional since August 2025 following flood damage, causing severe hardship to local residents who have been grappling with an acute shortage of drinking water for months.

Taking serious note of the situation, Ms. Rana had raised the issue during her protest and demanded immediate restoration of all defunct water supply systems, particularly highlighting the plight of people in the adjoining areas. Responding to the pressure created by the public outcry and the MLA’s intervention, the department has now sanctioned the required funds and initiated steps for the restoration of the dug well. The repair work has been directed to be taken up on priority.

Ms. Rana welcomed the move but stated that such urgent actions should not require public protests. She stated that the Government has allocated nearly Rs 3500 Crores to the PHE department in the 2026-2027 budget. The J&K Government has also received flood restoration funding from the Centre upto nearly Rs 3000 Crores. However the funding is not reflecting on the ground in Jammu division which was adversely impacted during the floods.

She reiterated that the ongoing water crisis is a result of prolonged negligence, lack of planning, and failure in timely maintenance by the PHE department. “This action clearly shows that when issues are raised strongly, the administration is compelled to respond. However, people should not be forced to come on roads for their basic rights like drinking water,” she said.

She further emphasized that while the approval for Hurlani dug well is a positive step; many other PHE stations and dug wells across Nagrota constituency are still lying defunct and require immediate attention. Ms. Rana urged the department to ensure quality repair works, proper technical supervision, and accountability to prevent recurrence of such failures.

Reaffirming her commitment, she stated that she will continue to raise the voice of the people and ensure that essential services are restored in a time-bound manner. “The people of Nagrota deserve reliable access to drinking water, and I will not allow administrative lapses and lethargy that has crept into the system to deprive them of this basic necessity,” she asserted.

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