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

KATHUA: Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Public Works (R&B) Department, Anil Kumar Singh, today visited the border villages of Bobiya and Gajnal in Hiranagar sector of Kathua district under the Vibrant Village Programme Phase-II (VVP-2).

Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma, Additional Deputy Commissioner Mahima Madan, Sub Divisional Magistrate Hiranagar Phulail Singh, Chief Engineers of PWD, Executive Engineers of PMGSY and R&B, Nodal Officers of the respective villages and other officers of the district administration were present on the occasion.

The ACS interacted with eminent citizens and local residents of the border villages and gave a patient hearing to the issues and demands projected by them. Particular emphasis was laid on the need to facilitate cultivation of land located near the border and installation of lift irrigation facilities to support agricultural activities and improve livelihood opportunities for the local population.

Referring to the projects earmarked for Ganjal and Bobiya under Vibrant Village Programme Phase-II, he assured that all identified projects would be completed within the stipulated timelines.

Regarding the demand for construction of the Manyari to Bhalassan-da-Khoo road, the ACS directed PWD Hiranagar to submit the Detailed Project Report (DPR) within two weeks for further necessary action.

Earlier, DC Kathua highlighted the broader objectives and contours of VVP-2 and the developmental interventions proposed for the identified villages. He informed that 6 villages falling under Hiranagar and Marheen blocks have been identified for coverage under Phase-II of the programme.

The Village Development Plans of Bobiya and Gajnal were presented by the respective Nodal Officers, outlining the proposed interventions and development works across key sectors including Rural Development, Jal Shakti, Public Works (R&B), Education, Health and Power Development, besides other areas of local importance.

Anil Kumar assured that all genuine demands projected by the local residents would be examined and taken up with the concerned departments for appropriate action.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇

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