SRINAGAR: The Chairman of the J&K Contractors Coordination Committee (JKCCC), Ghulam Jeelani Purza, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary on the formation of the new government led by the National Conference (NC)-Congress alliance.
In a statement released today, Purza praised the leadership of Omar Abdullah and the new cabinet, expressing hope for significant development across Jammu and Kashmir under their governance. In addition to congratulating Omar Abdullah, Purza also extended his congratulations to all the newly elected Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from both the Kashmir and Jammu divisions, including J&K Congress chief Tariq Hameed Karra.
"The formation of this government brings a wave of optimism for growth and progress. The contractors' community, which plays a crucial role in infrastructure development, is ready to work hand-in-hand with the government to build a better future for the next generation," Purza said.
He highlighted the essential contributions contractors make in key sectors such as health, education, public infrastructure, roads, and the power system, emphasizing that these efforts are fundamental to the region's development. Purza welcomed the appointment of Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Sogami, and other cabinet ministers. He expressed particular satisfaction with Surinder Choudhary's selection as an Deputy CM, believing it will strengthen the administration's focus on development.
The JKCCC is hopeful that the new NC-Congress alliance will swiftly address longstanding issues faced by the contractors' community. Purza outlined several key concerns, including pending payments, departmental delays, bid management, NOCs for card renewals, and the stabilization of prices for construction materials such as sand, bricks, and soil.
"We trust that this government will prioritize the needs of contractors, especially the unresolved issues left by the previous administration. We remain committed to supporting the new government in addressing these concerns," Purza said. He also called for the release of payments pending since the 2014 floods to 2018 and other challenges that have hampered the region's economic progress.
Purza reaffirmed JKCCC's commitment to contributing to the region's progressive development and economic growth through collaboration with the government. He assured that the contractors' community stands ready to assist in the successful implementation of development projects that will benefit the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
"Every contractor’s work is part of nation-building, and we remain dedicated to improving infrastructure and public services for the welfare of the entire region. We look forward to working closely with the government to achieve this vision," he concluded.
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
I will always remember Dr. Priya Ranjan not only as the Chairman of JK Monitor, but as a mentor, guide and elder brother whose kindness shaped my life and work. Write a tribute at In Loving Memory · Dr. Priya Ranjan
When he appointed me Editor-in-Chief of JK Monitor (www.jkmonitor.org), he never made me feel like an employee. He treated me as a younger brother—with warmth, trust and respect. His guidance was generous, his encouragement sincere, and his door was always open whenever I needed help or advice. I will remain deeply grateful for the confidence he placed in me and for all that he taught me.
Dr. Ranjan was a rare and noble human being: kind-hearted, humble and always ready to help. He was also a visionary intellectual whose ideas reached beyond the immediate moment. He brought together deep knowledge, curiosity and a belief in using one’s abilities to make a meaningful difference.
The tributes from his students and colleagues speak of the same qualities I was fortunate to experience myself: a brilliant mind joined with a compassionate heart, and a mentor who made people feel valued. His influence lives on in the people he guided, the work he inspired and the many lives he touched.
For me, he will always be more than a respected chairman or a remarkable intellectual. He will be the elder brother who welcomed me, believed in me and guided me with affection. I will carry his lessons and his kindness with me always. May his soul rest in eternal peace. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered and never forgotten.
(Ajmer Alam Wani)

