JAMMU: A delegation of public representatives from various villages of Udhampur district, including Makyani Chanoonta, Dhannu and Majalta, on Tuesday, met Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, and apprised him of drinking water issues affecting their respective areas. The delegation was led by Abdul Ghani Teli, Chairman OBC Cell of the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (JKNC).

During the meeting, the members raised concerns regarding irregular drinking water supply, the need for upgradation of existing infrastructure and replacement of old and damaged pipelines. They also stressed the importance of augmentation of water sources and preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) to address the long-standing water scarcity and infrastructure-related challenges in their villages.

Senior officers of Jal Shakti Department present on the occasion included Chief Engineer, Jal Shakti Jammu; Superintending Engineer, Udhampur; Executive Engineer, Udhampur, along with Assistant Executive Engineers (AEEs) and Junior Engineers (JEs) of Jal Shakti Division Udhampur.

Taking serious notice of the issues raised, the Minister asked the Superintending Engineer, Jal Shakti, to personally visit all the habitations and ensure regular and adequate water supply. He further instructed for formulation of DPRs for permanent restoration of damaged water supply infrastructure in the affected areas at the earliest.

Meanwhile, the department was directed to put in place appropriate temporary and alternate arrangements to ensure uninterrupted water supply. The Minister also directed the department to immediately prepare a DPR for a comprehensive water supply scheme for Dhannu Thathi, aimed at providing a long-term and sustainable solution to drinking water problems faced by the residents of the area.

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