SRINAGAR: The Private Schools’ Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK) has requested the J&K Government to declare four-day holiday — from June 6th to 9th June, 2025, on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha, including the Day of Arafah (June 6), to ensure the smooth observance of the festival and to avoid commuter disruptions.

In a statement issued to the media, PSAJK State President G.N. Var highlighted that the Day of Arafah, which directly precedes Eid, is marked by heavy traffic congestion and significantly reduced student attendance due to Eid preparations and shopping, especially affecting school operations and transportation.

“On June 6 the Day of Arafah movement across the city and towns becomes extremely difficult due to severe traffic jams. Both parents and school authorities struggle to pick up and drop off children. Under such conditions, continuing academic activities becomes impractical,” said Var. He further noted that attendance remains drastically low during the Arafah and the third day, of Eid leaving schools nearly empty. Teachers are often compelled to repeat lessons due to poor turnout.

“In this important religious occasion and to avoid confusion for parents, teachers and students, we respectfully appeal to the J&K Government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Education Minister Sakeena Itoo Ji to declare holidays from June 6th to 9th. This clarity will allow all stakeholders to plan accordingly and celebrate with peace of mind,” he added.

PSAJK stressed that since Eid-ul-Adha involves rituals spread over three days, with Qurbani often performed up to the third day, a four-day break is both practical and culturally considerate.  PSAJK hopes that the J&K Government will give due consideration to this request in the larger interest of students’ well-being, public convenience and religious harmony.

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