BARAMULLA: All preparations are in place for the launch of the “Aakanksha Haat”, a week-long exhibition being organized by the District Administration Baramulla under the national initiative "Vocal for Local campaign". The event will officially commence tomorrow at 10:30 AM at the waiting area of the Gulmarg Gondola.

The initiative is part of the countrywide ‘Aakanksha’ brand launched by NITI Aayog, aimed at promoting local products, artisans, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) from Aspirational Blocks across India. The goal is to strengthen the rural economy, support traditional skills, and connect local entrepreneurs to national and global markets.

The Aakanksha Haat will feature a wide array of local products including traditional crafts, Kashmiri carpets, handloom items, organic produce, local delicacies, and herbal goods, among other region-specific offerings. The event will also host live craft demonstrations, cultural performances, skill-building workshops, and sessions on marketing and entrepreneurship.

Special recognitions and awards will be given to the best stalls, most innovative products, and artisans with the highest sales, to encourage excellence and healthy competition. The District Administration Baramulla invites all residents and tourists to visit the Haat, explore and purchase local products, and enjoy the cultural vibrancy of the region. 

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