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

SRINAGAR: Government today informed the Legislative Assembly that it is actively pursuing all necessary clearances and taking sustained measures to facilitate the early commencement of work on the 18.824-km Barnai–Jawdora Link Road under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).

This was stated by Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Kumar Choudhary in reply to a Calling Attention Notice moved by MLA Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi) regarding the commencement of construction work on the Jawdora–Barni road.

Dy CM replied that the Government is actively coordinating with the concerned departments to resolve the pending issues and complete the requisite forest and environmental formalities for the commencement of the project.

He stated that the proposal will be submitted on the PARIVESH portal immediately upon receipt of the required details on tree enumeration and forest land involved, and the work will commence after the requisite forest clearance.

Elaborating, Surinder Kumar said that the project was sanctioned by the National Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (NRIDA), Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, in 2025 at a total cost of ₹4742.38 lakh to provide all-weather connectivity to Jawdora habitation.

It was informed that the work was tendered and allotted within the prescribed timelines and the executing agency has already mobilized the requisite men and machinery, while a temporary diversion across the Kishanganga River has also been constructed to facilitate movement of construction resources.

The Government further informed that, in view of the entire road alignment passing through forest land, obtaining the requisite forest clearance is mandatory before construction can proceed. Recognising this requirement, PIU Bandipora had initiated the clearance process well in advance.

To expedite the process, Dy CM informed that, joint inspections of the proposed alignment have been conducted by the PIU and Forest Department. PIU Bandipora has also been coordinating with the Geology & Mining Department for geological analysis and the Revenue Department for identification of suitable disposal sites for earthwork and muck material, as required for submission of the proposal on the PARIVESH portal.

The Government reiterated its commitment to expediting road infrastructure and ensuring all-weather connectivity to remote and border habitations in accordance with statutory and environmental requirements.

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