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: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also holds the Revenue portfolio, today informed the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly that the damage caused by hailstorm in parts of Banakoot Block of Bandipora has been assessed at less than 33 per cent, and therefore does not meet the prescribed threshold for input subsidy under SDRF norms.

The Chief Minister was replying to a Calling Attention Notice moved by MLA Bandipora Nizam-ud-Din Bhat regarding the hailstorm accompanied by rainfall and gusty winds reported in certain areas of Banakoot on September 6, which caused localized damage to agricultural and horticultural crops, including paddy, vegetables and fruit orchards.

As per the report of the Chief Agriculture Officer, Bandipora, the extent of crop damage in the affected areas has been assessed at less than 33 per cent. The Chief Minister informed the House that the damage was mainly in the form of localized lodging and physical injury to paddy, minor damage to vegetable crops and limited bruising, fruit drop and injury to fruits and foliage in orchards.

He stated that since the assessed crop damage is below the prescribed 33 per cent threshold, the affected cases do not qualify for input subsidy under the applicable SDRF norms.

The Chief Minister further informed the House that the concerned Agriculture and Horticulture field functionaries have been advising the affected farmers on appropriate crop-management measures to minimize further losses.

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