BUDGAM: Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, today visited the revered Pakherpora Shrine to review the preparations and arrangements being put in place for the upcoming Urs celebration. During the visit, the Speaker held public interaction with the local residents, civil society members and shrine management.

The public raised wide range of issues and demands regarding smooth conduct of the Urs. Main issues raised included uninterrupted electricity, adequate water supply, timely ration distribution and proper transport facilities from major routes like Budgam, Pulwama and Charar-i-Sharief to Pakherpora Shrine.

The Speaker assured the public that all the necessary arrangements will be made well in advance. He directed the concerned departments to ensure that adequate electricity, water and ration supplies are available during the Urs days to avoid any inconvenience to the devotees. Furthermore, he emphasized on the need for hassle-free transport facility from the surrounding districts and towns to facilitate smooth movement of pilgrims.

The Speaker reiterated that the administration is committed to facilitate the religious events with dignity and proper planning. He added that all public grievances would be resolved at the earliest to ensure a peaceful and spiritually enriching Urs at Pakherpora Shrine. The locals expressed gratitude to the Speaker and District Administration for active role and commitment for arrangements for the Urs.  CEO Yousmarg Development Authority, SDM Charar-i-Sharief, BMO, Assistant Director Food, ARTO Budgam and other senior officers accompanied the Speaker during the visit.

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