JAMMU: “Today is a historic day in the journey of Viksit Bharat and Viksit Jammu & Kashmir,” said Gaurav Gupta, BJP Spokesperson for J&K UT, reacting to the launch of the first-ever train service to the Kashmir Valley by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He described the moment as monumental, not only in terms of infrastructure but also in the emotional and historical legacy it carries. “This milestone is a living tribute to Maharaja Pratap Singh Ji, the third and longest-serving Dogra ruler of Jammu & Kashmir, who first envisioned a railway link between Jammu and Kashmir in the year 1898,” Gupta stated.

He recalled that Maharaja Pratap Singh had commissioned British engineers to survey the challenging Himalayan terrain for the ambitious project. Between 1898 and 1909, three detailed reports were prepared, but the dream remained unrealised due to the indifference of the colonial government. “Today, 127 years later, that vision has finally become a reality under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Modi Ji,” he said.

“This is not just about a train reaching Kashmir — this is about fulfilling a long-standing dream of national integration and regional connectivity. It is a symbol of inclusive growth, unity, and empowerment for the people of Jammu & Kashmir,” Gupta added.

He also praised the marvellous engineering that made this dream a reality. “Bringing a train to the Kashmir Valley is not only a political and emotional achievement — it is a stunning example of modern engineering overcoming one of the most difficult terrains in the world. The tunnels, bridges, and alignments constructed through the mighty Himalayas are a testament to India’s technological prowess and determination,” he noted.

Gupta emphasized that this milestone also fulfills a much larger national aspiration. “This was once a dream — a train journey from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. And today, under PM Modi’s leadership, that dream has turned into a reality,” he declared.

Gaurav Gupta congratulated the people of Jammu & Kashmir and the entire nation on this landmark achievement. He hailed it as a powerful example of the Central Government’s commitment to transforming even the most remote regions through visionary planning and world-class infrastructure. “This is New India. This is Modi’s India. And this is the era of Viksit Bharat,” he concluded.

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
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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