REASI: Deputy Commissioner Reasi, Vishesh Mahajan, who is also  the Vice Chairman of Shivkhori Shrine Board (SSKSB), on Friday chaired a meeting to discuss the arrangements for the  Shivkhori Shravan Mahotsav 2024 with functionaries of Government Departments and representatives of hospitality sector. 

The annual Mahotsav, scheduled to run from 22 July to 19 August, attracts thousands of devotees from across the country to the sacred shrine of Shivkhori. The meeting focused on making all necessary preprations for the smooth conduct of the festival. 

Deputy Commissioner Mahajan highlighted that the Mahotsav would feature different spiritual activities, including  Shiv  kathas, besides devotional songs dedicated to Lord Shiva by renowned singers and local artists.

 Mahajan asked JD Tourism Sunaina Sharma, who joined the meeting virtually, to ensure wide publicity of the Shivkhori Shravan Mahotsav, to attract maximum number of devotees and enhance the overall reach and participation in the festival.

The discussion included robust security arrangements, with adequate police deployment and surveillance to ensure safety of the visitors. The provision of medical camps and emergency response teams was emphasized to handle any health-related issues that may arise during the event. Additionally, strict cleanliness and sanitation measures will be implemented to maintain the sanctity of the shrine and its surroundings. 

Local Self-Help Groups (SHGs) will be provided space to put up traditional food stalls, offering a taste of local cuisine to the visitors. Deputy Commissioner Mahajan emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts among all departments and stakeholders to ensure the festival's success.

The meeting was attended by ADC Kulbushan Khajuria; Executive Officer SSKSB Pardeep Kumar; Xen JPDCL, PWD and Jal Shakti, BMO, BDO HQ, DSP HQ.  President Hotel Association Katra Rakesh Wazir; Vice President Hotel Association Varinder Kesar and Chairman Hotel Association Sham Lal Kesar also attended the meeting. Joint Director Tourism Sunina Sharma and AD Tourism Katra joined virtually.

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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