• Also reviews developmental scenario of Mendhar Constituency

MENDHAR: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana today laid the foundation stone for the construction of approach roads to the downstream bridge over the Mendhari Nallah. The vital infrastructure project, sanctioned at a cost of ₹339.20 lakhs, will be executed by the Roads & Buildings (R&B) Department.

During the foundation-laying ceremony, Rana directed the Executive Engineer of the R&B department to ensure the project is completed within the stipulated timeline. He stressed the importance of adhering to high quality standards and technical specifications, emphasizing that durable road infrastructure is essential for long-term public convenience and regional development.

Reaffirming Omar Abdullah Government’s commitment to enhancing road connectivity in remote and underserved areas, Rana noted that improved infrastructure is a key driver of socio-economic growth and accessibility in rural areas Later, the Minister chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the overall developmental scenario in Mendhar Constituency.

Highlighting the crucial role of horticulture and agriculture in bolstering the rural economy, Rana called for increased outreach and awareness among farmers and the general public regarding various government schemes and welfare initiatives. He directed the concerned departments to organize awareness camps, workshops and field demonstrations at the village level to ensure that information reaches the grassroots, enabling maximum public participation and benefit.

The Minister also held a detailed review of ongoing and proposed works under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) and the Public Works Department (PWD). He instructed officials to expedite the tendering process, monitor progress rigorously, and ensure timely completion of all infrastructure projects.

He also reviewed the status of road restoration efforts following recent landslides and directed the timely preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for new road projects under various schemes. In the education sector, Rana called for swift implementation of developmental initiatives aimed at improving educational infrastructure, teaching standards and learning outcomes.

He emphasized the need for optimal utilization of existing human resources and integration of digital learning tools to enhance the quality of education, particularly in rural schools. Addressing the healthcare situation, the Minister highlighted the importance of improving healthcare access and service delivery in underserved areas.

He directed health officials to undertake outreach programs to enhance community awareness and ensure equitable access to primary healthcare services. The Minister underscored the importance of interdepartmental coordination, proactive governance and transparency in the execution of development works. “The Government is committed to ensuring inclusive and holistic development that reaches every section of society, especially those in far-flung and rural areas,” Rana stated.

The meeting was attended by senior officers from Agriculture, Horticulture, Education, Health, Rural Development, PWD and PMGSY departments, along with field-level officers and representatives from various line departments.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇

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