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

SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reviewed arrangements for the Darbar Move Session 2026–27 at a high-level meeting, directing all concerned departments to ensure a smooth, secure and well-coordinated transition of offices from Srinagar to Jammu, along with adequate facilities for employees.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary, Estates, Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department, Ashwini Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister, Dheeraj Gupta, Administrative Secretaries, Inspector General of Police, Traffic, J&K, Divisional Commissioners of Kashmir and Jammu, Deputy Commissioners of Srinagar and Jammu, Director Information  and other senior officers. Jammu based officers attended the meeting via video conferencing.

At the outset, Commissioner Secretary, General Administration Department (GAD), M. Raju, gave a detailed presentation on transport and logistical arrangements for the Darbar Move convoy.

The Chief Minister directed the Managing Director, JKRTC, and the Traffic Department to ensure adequate bus availability and organise the down convoy over two consecutive days, October 31 and November 1, 2026, for the safe and efficient movement of employees and equipment. He stressed close coordination among all concerned departments to ensure hassle-free transportation.

Reviewing security arrangements, traffic management along the National Highway and residential accommodation for employees moving to Jammu, the Chief Minister directed the Police Department and other agencies to put in place comprehensive security measures, particularly in residential areas where the employees would be staying.

The meeting was informed that medical assistance would be available along the convoy route, with doctors, paramedics and ambulances deployed in both Kashmir and Jammu divisions.

Arrangements for essential services, food, hospitality and other facilities were also reviewed. The Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, was asked to examine traffic management within the city, particularly around major residential areas, and identify suitable locations along the convoy route for food and public convenience facilities, including washrooms, for employees and officials undertaking the journey.

The meeting also reviewed arrangements for the functioning of the Winter Secretariat in Srinagar, which will operate with minimal staff presence. The Chief Minister directed the General Administration Department to issue monthly rosters for Ministers and Administrative Secretaries to be stationed at the Winter Secretariat, beginning with November.

The Chief Minister further directed that special casual leave be granted to Kashmir-based employees moving to Jammu in connection with the Darbar Move. It was informed that an order in this regard would be issued shortly.

Emphasising the significance of the Darbar Move as a distinctive administrative tradition of Jammu and Kashmir, the Chief Minister called for meticulous planning, effective interdepartmental coordination and adequate arrangements for the safety and convenience of employees.

He directed all departments to work in close coordination to ensure that the Darbar Move is completed smoothly and the official work of the Government commences seamlessly in Jammu.

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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