The Survival Fight of JK Monitor: For 16 years, JK Monitor has chronicled Jammu and Kashmir with integrity. Since 2010, I have steered its newsroom alongside our visionary Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan (IIT Kharagpur alumnus, University of Maryland Ph.D.). His tragic demise in October 2026 left a severe financial and operational vacuum. Without urgent support, our 24/7 news portal risks permanently shutting down after November 2026, remaining only as a static digital archive. We appeal to well-wishers to extend a helping hand to keep our active newsroom alive. Support Us: WhatsApp: +91-9906103001 | Email: journalistajmerwani@gmail.com

SHOPIAN, BARAMULLA: Continuing its sustained crackdown on illegal mining, Police in Shopian seized one JCB, one dumper, two tippers and six tractors involved in the unauthorized extraction and transportation of minerals from different areas of the district. Besides, 06 vehicles were also seized in Baramulla.

In Shopian, a police party from Police Station Shopian intercepted and seized two tippers, one JCB and one Dumper at different locations while they were allegedly engaged in illegal extraction and transportation of minerals without valid royalty documents. In a similar action, police party from Police Station Heerpora intercepted and seized six tractors involved in illegal mining activities without mandatory permissions. In this regard, cases under relevant provisions of law were registered and investigation have been initiated.

In Baramulla, during a special checking drive at Jahama Crossing, police intercepted six vehicles, found involved in illegal mining activities including four tippers bearing Registration Nos. JK01M-1390, JK21B-4050, JK04B-3681, JK01T-4283, and two tractors bearing Engine/Chassis Nos. NTA2TBE0256 and MBNWHBDJ5T. Accordingly, two tippers and two tractors were seized on the spot through the Geology & Mining Department for violation of the prescribed legal provisions. Meanwhile, the remaining two tippers bearing Registration Nos. JK01M-1390 and JK21B-4050 were booked in FIR No. 137/2026 of Police Station Baramulla under relevant provisions of law. Necessary legal action has been initiated against the violators.

In a separate enforcement action at Mirgund, one dumper bearing Registration No. JK01S-2101 was intercepted while carrying illegally extracted sand. The vehicle was seized and action was initiated under the MMDR Act in coordination with the concerned authorities.

Police reiterated its firm commitment to protecting the districts natural resources and taking strict legal action against individuals involved in illegal mining activities. The general public has been urged to cooperate with the police and report any such unlawful activities. The identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential.

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