JAMMU: A delegation comprising office bearers of the Sanskriti Art and Culture Cell called on Rakesh Mahajan, State Vice President, BJP, to raise serious concerns regarding the non-disbursement of State Awards announced by the government over the past three years.

The delegation included Narendra Singh, State Incharge, Sanskriti Art and Culture Cell; Sahil Mahajan, State Co-Incharge, Sanskriti Art and Culture Cell; Raman Singh Salathia, State Awardee and Co-Incharge, Sanskriti Art and Culture Cell; and renowned social activist and singer Sandhya Sharma.

During the meeting, Raman Singh Salathia, a renowned Dogri singer and State Awardee, highlighted that although the State Government has formally announced State Awards for the past three years, the awardees have neither received the prize money nor the official certificates to date. He expressed deep disappointment, stating that artists dedicate their lives to preserving and promoting culture with the hope that governmental recognition will honor and encourage their efforts. However, the absence of tangible recognition has left many awardees disheartened.

Expressing shock and concern over the issue, Rakesh Mahajan termed the matter “deeply unfortunate.” He said it is disheartening that artists who bring pride to the state through their talent are left waiting for basic recognition after being declared awardees. He further stated that the state already lacks structured provisions and institutional support to help artists grow and reach national platforms, and such negligence only adds to their struggles.

Mahajan appealed to the concerned department and the government to immediately address the issue and ensure that the pending prize money and official certificates are released without further delay. He assured the delegation that he would take up the matter at the appropriate level and fight to secure the rightful dues of the artists.

On behalf of the delegation, Narendra Singh and Raman Singh Salathia thanked Rakesh Mahajan for taking up the issue seriously and for assuring support in raising the matter with the government. The delegation expressed hope that the government will act promptly to uphold the dignity and morale of the state’s artists.

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