Digital news hub: Real news, real people, no hype, just facts
Contribute to keep unbiased news alive. Scan the QR code to donate.
Share your story and shine at JK Monitor!🌟 Welcome to JK Monitor, where every story matters and every achievement is celebrated! We invite you to share the remarkable journey of your life and showcase your accomplishments to the world. Join our exclusive interviews that honor exceptional individuals just like you. HOW TO PARTICIPATE: 👉Send us your bio-data and a summary of your achievements. 👉GET FEATURED: Your story could be featured in our special interviews, inspiring countless others. 🌟 Whether you’re an inspiring entrepreneur, a dedicated professional, or a talented freelancer, your journey deserves to be told. Let your experiences inspire others and leave a lasting impact. We believe in the power of diverse voices and unique experiences. Come, join our community, and let’s celebrate your success together. Inspire the world with your journey.
📧Email: jkmonitornews@gmail.com 📱 WhatsApp: (+91-9906103001).
JAMMU: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu, as part of its vibrant outreach programme and steadfast commitment to nurturing young minds for a brighter and more empowered society, welcomed students and teachers from Rich Harvest School, Jammu, for an enriching educational visit to its state-of-the-art Jagti Campus on 28th May 2025. Guided by the visionary leadership of its Director, Prof. B.S. Sahay, this initiative reflects IIM Jammu’s broader mission of community engagement, national development, and cultivating intellectual curiosity among school students through exposure to world-class academic environments.
The delegation comprised 38 students (15 female and 23 male) from Classes XI and XII, accompanied by four faculty members. The visit commenced at the Grand Reception Area, where the guests were given a warm welcome, followed by a guided tour of the institute’s architectural and academic landmarks—including the Clock Tower, Courtyard, Nalanda Library, Smart Classrooms, Mandapam Auditorium, Vedanta MDP Block, Rangmanch, Amphitheatre, and Jalpan Kendra. A specially curated audio-visual presentation showcased the genesis, evolution, and key milestones of IIM Jammu, highlighting its commitment to excellence, innovation, and public service.
Welcoming the young visitors, Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Chairperson, Anandam: The Centre for Happiness and the Media and Publication Committee, IIM Jammu, delivered an inspiring address that blended intellectual reflection with national purpose. He urged the students to anchor their aspirations in the profound civilizational ethos of India, while aligning their personal goals with the vision of a resurgent and self-reliant Bharat, as envisioned by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Emphasizing the need for autonomous academic choices,
Prof. Lal encouraged the students to cultivate self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and inner clarity, rather than merely relying on digital tools and external validations. Drawing deeply from the wisdom traditions of Indian philosophy, he highlighted the transformative power of reading, the importance of harmonizing material ambition with spiritual integrity, and the necessity of living with passion and purpose. He concluded by reminding the students that in nurturing their own potential, they participate in the larger journey of nation-building and the making of a truly great India.
Brigadier Neeraj K Soni (Retd.), faculty, IIM Jammu, delivered an inspiring session on personal discipline and national vision. Emphasizing the triad of physical health, emotional resilience, and time management, he urged students to envision their contribution to a Viksit Bharat by 2047. With powerful analogies—such as Arjuna’s unwavering focus during his archery test—Brigadier Soni reinforced the values of routine, integrity, and character-building, encouraging students to see spirituality not as abstraction but as the inner compass that energizes meaningful action.
Dr. Mahesh Gadekar, Chairperson, Centre for Diversity and Inclusion and Associate Professor, IIM Jammu, engaged the students with practical life lessons on developing focus and perseverance. Using the metaphor of an ECG to highlight the natural ups and downs of life, he reminded students that purpose, clarity, and organization are crucial for success. He further underscored the importance of early riser routines, communication skills, and making informed use of India’s diverse scholarship ecosystem to overcome socio-economic barriers to higher education.
The visit also featured an interactive career counselling session, offering insights into career trajectories, pathways to premier institutions like IIMs and IITs, and the dynamic academic opportunities available at IIM Jammu. Students actively participated in this session, posing thoughtful questions and demonstrating a keen interest in shaping their futures. This educational outreach initiative reflects IIM Jammu’s unwavering commitment to democratizing access to knowledge, fostering a culture of leadership and aspiration, and nurturing the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and nation-builders. The visit was meticulously coordinated by the Public Relations Office of IIM Jammu and stands as a testament to the institute’s deep engagement with the broader educational ecosystem.
AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), through its Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction (CDRR), has been selected by the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), Government of Jammu and Kashmir, to lead an ambitious capacity-building programme on disaster preparedness and risk reduction for key stakeholder communities across the Union Territory. This initiative marks a significant milestone in building a resilient Jammu and Kashmir, vulnerable to multiple hazards such as earthquakes, floods, landslides, avalanches, climate extremes, and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs).
The programme involves a series of targeted workshops and trainings scheduled throughout the year (2025), focusing on diverse groups including government officials, urban planners, engineers, academics, NGOs, and community representatives. These multi-day sessions aim to enhance disaster literacy, technical preparedness, and inter-agency coordination across the region. Experts from national institutions and leading universities will facilitate the sessions through interactive modules, field visits, and simulations.
Speaking about the program, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice-Chancellor, IUST, stated that given Jammu and Kashmir's disaster vulnerability, risk reduction is not just a policy concern but it is an existential necessity. He added that this initiative reflects our deep commitment to strengthening the capacity of institutions and communities to better prepare for and respond to disasters and help build a safer and more resilient Jammu & Kashmir.
Prof. Romshoo said that this initiative positions IUST as a pioneering academic institution not only in disaster research but also in directly supporting governance and community resilience in one of India’s most disaster-prone regions. The capability building workshops will cover disaster-specific themes and will combine scientific insights with practical tools and community-based preparedness frameworks.
SRINAGAR: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, today conducted an extensive inspection of the ongoing development and construction works at SKIMS Medical College and Hospital Bemina, Srinagar. The works included construction of 250 bedded IPD block and College Laboratory block to be raised at an estimated cost of Rs 83.94 crore and Rs 88.23 crore respectively.
The visit was aimed at assessing the pace and quality of the construction activities being undertaken to upgrade the hospital's infrastructure. It was informed that IPD block will have 7 stories with facilities like wards in Orthopedic, Medicine, Psychiatry, Labour, Obstetrics, General Surgery along with administrative block, medial record section, board room and lecture theatre.
While inspecting the construction work on the IPD block, the Dy CM exhorted upon the executing agency to expedite the pace of work and ensure that all pending tasks are completed without further delay. The Dy CM directed the concerned officials to complete all the pending works within three months.
Highlighting the significance of infrastructure development in health sector, the Dy CM asked the officials to ensure strict adherence to set deadlines besides addressing any bottlenecks hindering the timely completion of such vital projects. He asked for ensuring strict adherence to all quality parameters while maintaining the timeliness for project completion.
The Deputy Chief Minister also called for regular monitoring and evaluation of ongoing works to ensure transparency and accountability. He emphasized the need for proper coordination among the executing agencies and called for close monitoring to avoid unnecessary delays. Director SKIMS, Professor Mohammad Ashraf Ganai; Principal MCH Bemina Dr. Fazal Kadir Parray; Chief Engineer (R&B), Sajad Naqeeb; CE MED Kashmir Bodh Raj besides senior doctors and staff members were also present on the occasion.
SRINAGAR: In a dramatic and life-threatening situation, 92 Base Hospital, BB Cantt under aegis of Chinar Corps served a baby girl who was born nearly three months premature, at just 26 weeks and 5 days of pregnancy, weighing only 750 grams. Her mother, a 30-year-old woman battling a blood disorder called immune thrombocytopenia, had dangerously low platelets and suffered from placental abruption, a severe pregnancy complication that can be fatal for both mother and child. The mother had bled almost 1.5 litres in her abdomen and was in 'shock'. To save the life of the mother and give the fetus a chance, the mother was rushed into an emergency C-section at 92 Base Hospital, Srinagar.
The newborn baby arrived in the world fragile and barely clinging to life. She was immediately taken to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of 92 Base Hospital, where a team of tireless doctors and nurses sprang into action. With a birth weight of merely 750 grams, she had breathing difficulty soon after the birth, requiring support for her breathing efforts. The next 65 days were a duel; a tussle of uncertainty and relentless vigil by doctors and nurses. This baby was fighting her own battle, and the only thing constant was the honest intent and will to win.
The baby received round-the-clock care for more than two months, including specialired breathing support and lifesaving medications. The baby would frequently stop breathing and had to be resuscitated. The baby was also noted to have a hole in the heart, which was managed using multiple courses of oral medications. Against all odds, this little warrior grew stronger each day, eventually breathing on her own and reaching a healthy discharge weight of 1.89 kg. The hospital staff grew very fond of her and nicknamed her ‘Veerangana’ with affection.
Her miraculous survival is not just a story of hope, but also a shining example of the unwavering dedication and expertise of the medical staff at 92 Base Hospitalwho continue to perform miracles even under the challenging conditions of operationalsituation.This is a story of Chinar Warrior by birth, a story of science, struggle and a soul too strong to give in, or a “Veerangana”.
PAHALGAM Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today announced to establish a memorial in memory of the 26 victims of last month’s tragic terror attack at Baisaran near Pahalgam. “We have been discussing this from day one — a memorial will be set up in Baisaran for the 26 innocent lives lost, as a lasting tribute and a reminder that they will never be forgotten,” the Chief Minister said.
Addressing a gathering of travel & tour operators from across the country, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of reviving tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. “In today’s cabinet meeting, held here in Pahalgam, the Public Works Department was authorized to grant in- principle approval for this memorial,” he announced. He added that suggestions would be sought to ensure that the memorial is not only magnificent but also dignified and respectful.
Extending heartfelt gratitude to the visiting tour operators, the Chief Minister said, “I thank each one of you for coming to Pahalgam and supporting the revival of tourism. I recognize many of you as those who reignited tourism in the Valley during the most challenging times — when even the locals feared venturing out.”
He recalled the early 1990s when tourism first resumed in the Valley with the arrival of groups from Mumbai and Gujarat. “They helped restart tourism and brought it to its peak— until the events of April 22. No matter how strongly we condemn what happened that day, it will never be enough. We lack words to comfort the families of those 26 victims. We can only bow our heads in their memory.”
While acknowledging security challenges, Omar Abdullah stressed the need for strict measures. “Although we do not fully control the security apparatus, I believe what happened should never have happened. And we must do everything possible to ensure it never happens again.” On the reopening of tourist destinations post-Baisaran incident, he urged for transparency and openness in communicating with tourists. “Let’s not focus on what’s closed, but on what’s open. I believe it’s better to speak the truth rather than have tourists feel misled.”
He added, “The process of reopening will begin in a phased manner in the coming days. I visited Betaab Valley myself to assess the situation and to build confidence. Not all destinations will reopen at once, but some will gradually become accessible.” The Chief Minister assured tour operators that they would be consulted throughout this process. “Together with the administration, we will ensure destinations are reopened responsibly, in a timely manner.”
On attracting international tourists, the CM said, “In our experience, international guests arrive after domestic tourism shows signs of recovery. The first sign of normalcy is when school children and domestic tourists begin visiting picnic spots again. Once this wave is visible, international bookings will follow. While we must continue to promote globally, I believe a strong focus on domestic tourism will build the right momentum.”
Reaffirming his confidence in the revival process, he said, “We have come a long way. What happened, happened. But with your courage and commitment, I am certain we will overcome this and bounce back.” He acknowledged that certain shortcomings exist and assured these would be addressed moving forward. “We are aware of the gaps — and we will act on them.”
Tour operators who interacted with the Chief Minister represented a cross-section of travel & operators and bodies such as Raja Rani Travels, Pooja Travels, Heena Travels, Veena World, Off Beat Destinations, KK Tours, Jai Mata Di Travels, Arihant Travels, Madhuchanda Travels, TAFI, Kass Travels, ADTOI, Beckon Tours Pvt Ltd, Trans Global Travels, SHR Harshil Travels (representing OTOAI), Golden Tours (under ETAA), Ajay Modi Travels (Gujarat), Travel Munk (Jain Travel Associations), Thomas Cook, Tamarind, Kraft Vacations, and Travel Lounge.
Delegates from national print and electronic media also interacted with the CM, alongside local tour operators, hoteliers, travel and tourism stakeholders. Present during the session were former Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, MLAs from Pahalgam and Bijbehara, Director Tourism, MD JKTDC, and other senior officials.
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister chaired a cabinet meeting in Pahalgam. He described it as more than a routine 'Council of Ministers' session, calling it a strong message against terrorism. “The enemies of peace will not deter our resolve. Jammu & Kashmir stands firm, united, and unafraid.” The Chief Minister also met local delegations led by MLA Pahalgam. “Valuable insights were shared about local issues and aspirations. The support extended by locals during the recent tragedy — to both tourists and the administration — was exemplary,” he said.
He also visited Nunwan Base Camp to review preparations for the Amarnath Yatra, interacted with officials on the ground, and emphasized the importance of coordination for ensuring pilgrims’ safety and comfort. The visit to Betaab Valley was followed by an impromptu cycling tour by the Chief Minister from a local hotel to Nunwan Base Camp and back, to promote new initiatives taken by Tourism Department towards sustainable tourism and eco-tourism, a message strongly advocated by CM Omar Abdullah who also holds the portfolio of Minister for Tourism in J&K.
Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇
Bridging the World: In this category, we bring you a curated selection of extraordinary news stories from every corner of the globe. Whether it's groundbreaking developments, inspiring human interest stories, or pivotal events shaping our world, we cover it all with a global perspective. Our coverage offers insightful analyses and diverse viewpoints, ensuring you stay informed and connected with both national and international affairs.