ANANTNAG: After assuming office, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forests and Tribal Affairs, Javaid Ahmad Rana today held maiden visit of district Anantnag to get first-hand appraisal of  functioning of Gujjar and Pahari Hostels in the district.

The Minister was accompanied by Members of Legislative Assembly Reyaz Ahmad Khan, Altaf Ahmad Wani, Zafar Ali Khatana and Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri. Secretary Tribal Affairs, Deputy Commissioner Anantnag, Senior Superintendent of Police and other senior officers of district administration were also present on the occasion.

During the visit, Javaid Rana interacted with tribal students and patiently listened their concerns and issues. The Minister on the occasion also had a brief meeting with senior officers of district administration, where he advised them to ensure participation of local residents in planning and development activities. He instructed them to be alert and proactive towards peoples expectations and ensure efficient delivery of all government services.

Significantly, during the visit, Javid Rana announced increase in dietary charges  for candidates from rupees 100 to  175 per day. He also announced 100 kanals for Gujjar Hostel which shall be made available  by District Administration. The Minister also called upon the district administration for upgradation of infrastructure  and basic facilities  along with immediate repair and renovation of damaged building due to recent fire mishap.

The Minister also announced that the existing Pahari hostel shall be shifted to a new well furnished building.  The Minister was also informed that the proposal for construction of Pahari hostel is already in advanced stage. Later, delegations from the tribal communities also called on the Minister and presented their demands before him. While interacting with delegations, Javid Rana highlighted that the Omar Abdullah led government is committed towards addressing the demands of tribal communities.

“Empowering our tribal population is our priority and continuing legacy of our founder Sher-e- Kashmir, Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah and our government is committed to uplift the unprivileged and downtrodden communities”, Rana said. He added that we will ensure all necessary funds  are released in consultation with the Ministries of  Union Government. This visit primarily underscores the government’s focus on ensuring a balanced and speedy development of tribal communities.

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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