• Winners to clash in final on February 26

KATHUA: The semi-final matches of the Open District Cricket Tournament, organized by District Administration Kathua in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, were played today here at the Sports Stadium  amid enthusiastic participation of youth and presence of senior officers.

Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma felicitated the winning teams and appreciated the players for their discipline, sportsmanship and competitive spirit. He reiterated that such tournaments provide a constructive platform for youth engagement and strengthen the campaign against drug abuse under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.

In the first semi-final, Sub-Division Hiranagar defeated Sub-Division Bani. After winning the toss, Bani elected to bat first and scored 89 runs in the stipulated overs. The target was successfully chased by Hiranagar in 12.1 overs with the loss of five wickets, securing a place in the final. In the second semi-final, Sub-Division Billawar registered a convincing 67-run victory over Sub-Division Basohli to book their berth in the final.

ADC Kathua Vishavjeet Singh and Chief Planning Officer Kathua Ranjeet Thakur, DSWO Varun Chaudhary were also present on the occasion. The tournament is being organized to channelize the energy of youth towards constructive activities and to reinforce the message of a drug-free society through sports-based initiatives.

Refreshments were provided to the participating players and officials at the venue. The winning teams will now compete in the final match scheduled to be held at Sports Stadium Kathua on February 26, 2026.

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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