SRINAGAR: Sat Sharma, President, J&K BJP and Rajya Sabha MP, accompanied by Ashok Koul, J&K BJP General Secretary (Organization) and other senior party leaders inaugurated the Swadeshi Mela at Polo View, Srinagar.

J&K BJP General Secretaries Sanjita Dogra, Anwar Khan, Secretaries Mudassir Wani and Arif Raja, District President Srinagar Salman Sheikh, Bilal Parray, and other party leaders were present on the occasion. Thousands of enthusiastic people from all walks of life thronged the venue, showcasing overwhelming public support and appreciation for the initiative.

In a strong push towards realizing the vision of a self-reliant India, the two-day Swadeshi Mela is being organized on December 20 and 21 with the objective of promoting indigenous products, local artisans, traditional skills, and cultural heritage.

The Swadeshi Mela featured an impressive display of Kashmiri handicrafts, artworks, Pashmina products, dry fruits, spices, pherans, carpets, silver jewelry, local cuisine, and vibrant folk music. The event aims to promote local culture, boost indigenous industries, and pave the way for an economically sustainable and self-reliant local society.

Addressing the gathering, while inaugurating the Mela, Sat Sharma said that the Swadeshi Mela is a living example of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, where local production, local markets, and local talent are strengthened to build a robust national economy. He said that Jammu and Kashmir has immense potential in handicrafts, handloom, agriculture-based products, and traditional arts, and such platforms provide much-needed market exposure to local artisans and entrepreneurs.

When we buy local, we empower families, preserve our culture, and contribute to the economic growth of our society, he emphasized, urging people to actively support Swadeshi products.

Ashok Koul, speaking on the occasion, said that Swadeshi Melas play a crucial role in connecting artisans directly with consumers, eliminating middlemen, and ensuring fair returns for their hard work.

He highlighted that the BJP remains committed to strengthening grassroots economy and promoting traditional skills, especially among youth and women. He said that cultural and economic revival go hand in hand, and initiatives like these help in preserving Jammu and Kashmir’s rich heritage while generating sustainable livelihoods.

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