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-led Government today extended the benefit of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) to thousands of employees appointed against posts advertised or notified prior to December 24, 2009, but who subsequently joined service under the New Pension Scheme (NPS). The Government issued the orders following the decision taken by the Council of Ministers, chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, at its meeting held earlier this month.

Under the decision, employees appointed against posts advertised or notified prior to December 24, 2009 and who joined service under the NPS have been given a one-time option to switch over from the New Pension Scheme to the Old Pension Scheme. The eligible employees will have to exercise the option through the proper channel within three months from the date of issuance of the Government order.

The Government has clarified that the option, once exercised, shall be final. Employees who do not exercise the option within the stipulated period will continue to remain covered under the New Pension Scheme. The decision fulfils the Council of Ministers’ decision to extend the benefit of the Old Pension Scheme to employees whose posts had been advertised or notified before December 24, 2009, providing eligible employees an opportunity to opt for OPS coverage.

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