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

JAMMU: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today informed the House that the Tourism Department remains committed to strengthening tourism infrastructure and enhancing visitor facilities at major tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir, including the Tral constituency. The Chief Minister was replying to a question raised by MLA Tral, Rafiq Ahmad Naik, regarding tourism development in the area.

He informed that the Government is taking steps to improve visitor facilities in Tral and emphasized that tourism development works are prioritized based on the availability of land, financial resources, and environmental considerations, particularly in ecologically fragile mountain regions. Accordingly, such initiatives are being undertaken in a phased manner in line with approved plans and budgetary provisions.

Highlighting specific interventions, the Chief Minister said that two tourist cafeterias at Faiz Panah, Tral, and Bajwani are presently under construction by the Tourism Department to strengthen local tourism infrastructure.

He further stated that the Department of Culture has undertaken several initiatives for the promotion, preservation, and development of heritage and religious tourism sites across Jammu and Kashmir, including those in Tral constituency. These works are being executed in a phased and time-bound manner under the CAPEX Budget, including works under Capex and the Scheme for Revival, Restoration, Preservation and Maintenance of Architecture and Heritage in Jammu and Kashmir.

“These initiatives aim to preserve the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the region while promoting heritage and religious tourism in a planned and sustainable manner,” he added.

Responding to another query, the Chief Minister said that the Tourism Department is in the process of taking over certain tourism assets from the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation, including four Eco Log Huts and a Tourist Facilitation Centre at Shikargah. He added that these assets will be revived and made operational in a phased manner after their formal takeover.

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

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