• Decision to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, improve patient care

SRINAGAR: The Council of Ministers, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has approved the upgradation of Sub-District Hospital Hazratbal by granting relaxation in the buffer zone restrictions under the Srinagar Master Plan–2035. The decision was taken during the 6th meeting of the Council of Ministers, with the objective of strengthening healthcare infrastructure and ensuring improved healthcare delivery in the interest of better patient care.

The project had remained stalled for several years due to various obstacles arising from restrictions under the buffer zone provisions, causing considerable inconvenience to the public. Recognising the hardships faced by the people and the urgent need for enhanced healthcare facilities in the area, the Cabinet headed by the Chief Minister took a historic decision to intervene and relax the restrictions, paving the way for the long-pending upgradation of the hospital.

With the approval, the hospital is expected to be equipped with expanded infrastructure and improved medical facilities, including blood bank services, operation theatres and specialised treatment facilities for various ailments. The move is aimed at reducing the need for patients to seek admissions and treatment elsewhere.

Locals of the area expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for the decision, stating that the hospital currently suffers from severe space constraints and lacks adequate facilities for patients and attendants. They said the upgradation of the hospital would significantly ease public difficulties and provide better healthcare access to the people of Hazratbal and adjoining areas.

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
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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