In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

JAMMU: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, today informed the House that the process for relaxation of buffer zone restrictions under Srinagar Master Plan-2035 for construction of SDH Hazartbal is ongoing and the matter is currently in General Administration Department (GAD) for its placement before the Council of Ministers.

The Minister stated this in reply to the Calling Attention Notice moved by Salman Sagar in the Legislative Assembly today. She informed that the new hospital site of SDH Hazratbal falls within the 200-meter buffer zone of Dal Lake, requiring clearance from the Lakes Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA).

She added that after pursuing the matter with the LCMA through GMC Srinagar, LCMA has advised the department to place a formal proposal before the Cabinet seeking relaxation of the 100-meter buffer restriction for this project.

The Minister said that, thereafter, the matter of relaxation of buffer zone restrictions under Srinagar Master Plan-2035 for construction of SDH Hazartbal, was taken up with the General Administration Department for its placement before the Council of Ministers. They advised the department to approach the Department of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs for legal opinion prior to the re-submission of the case file to GAD for placement before the Council Ministers. She added that the Law Department suggested proceeding with a draft Memo/Coordination note to be placed before the Council via GAD, after vetting by HUDD and departmental approval.

The Minister added that the matter was subsequently taken up with HUDD and based on their advice, revised draft memo has been prepared by incorporating the opinion. She added that the revised draft memorandum has been submitted to General Administration Department for consideration and placement before the Council of Ministers in the ensuing meeting.

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
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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