In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
  • Top officials emphasize safe, regulated pilgrimage with focus on infrastructure, surveillance, and public awareness

JAMMU: Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar alongside Inspector General of Police Bhim Sen Tuti, on Thursday chaired a meeting to review the arrangements for smooth and secure conduct of Shree Machail Mata Yatra 2025. The meeting was attended by DIG Traffic, Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, SSP Kishtwar, MD JPDCL, Secretary Culture, officials from Tourism, Transport, Health and other line departments.

The Divisional Commissioner and IGP   took a detailed appraisal of the arrangements made for the annual yatra by the civil and police administration as an elaborate PowerPoint presentation was given by the Deputy Commissioner and SSP Kishtwar.

Reviewing the preparations, the Div Com inquired about   the civic amenities put in place for the pilgrims en-route to the holy Pilgrimage. Point wise discussion was held on accommodation capacity at places designated for night halts including Darmshaals, homestays and guesthouses. He took feedback on arrangements for power, water supply, medical facilities, illumination, mobile connectivity and sanitation arrangements en-route from Kishtwar to Gulabgarh to the holy shrine.

The Divisional Commissioner directed for installing sufficient numbers of mobile toilets along the route. He further asked the administration to ensure the pilgrims don’t digress from the designated route to the holy shrine. Strict directions were issued for adhering to the cut off timings for   crossing the specific location of the pilgrimage route. The District Administration was asked to give wide publicity to the cut off timings and the Dos and Don’ts for pilgrims.

The IGP Jammu, while reviewing the security arrangements, directed for movement of the pilgrims under proper regulation and with full security. He suggested for mini-convoy of vehicles of the pilgrims and restricting any kind of movement after the cut-off timings.

Directions were also issued for a robust queue management system, CCTV camera coverage at the Shrine and at vulnerable spots along the route. Further stress was laid on ensuring Fire and Emergency services and wide publicity of the annual holy yatra through print, electronic media and hoardings by the Tourism Department.

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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