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: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, today interacted with the representatives of Fruit Mandi Associations from Kashmir Division at the Civil Secretariat here to discuss issues concerning the functioning of fruit mandis and strengthening of horticulture market infrastructure.

The meeting was attended by Director Horticulture Marketing and Planning, Ghulam Jeelani Zargar; Managing Director, JKHPMC, Mohammad Farooq Dar; Director Horticulture Kashmir, Vikas Anand; Presidents of Fruit Mandi Associations from Kashmir Division besides other senior officers.

During the interaction, the representatives apprised the Minister of various issues concerning the functioning of fruit mandis. They highlighted the need for strengthening the basic infrastructure and improving essential facilities for traders, fruit growers and labourers associated with the horticulture sector.

 Javid Ahmad Dar assured the representatives that their genuine concerns would be examined and resolved on priority basis. He directed the concerned officers to maintain close coordination with the mandi associations and take necessary measures for addressing their issues in a time-bound manner.

The Minister emphasized that the government is committed to create a conducive and efficient working environment in fruit mandis, which play a vital role in facilitating horticulture trade and supporting the livelihoods of thousands of growers, traders and workers.

Javid Dar stressed the need for strengthening the basic infrastructure and improving essential facilities in fruit mandis to facilitate smooth trade operations and ensure better working conditions for all stakeholders. He called for coordinated efforts by the concerned departments to identify infrastructure gaps, address operational bottlenecks and ensure timely execution of necessary improvement works.

Highlighting the importance of the horticulture sector to Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, the Minister underscored the need for sustained efforts to strengthen market infrastructure, improve trade facilitation and safeguard the interests of fruit growers and other stakeholders.

He also emphasized the importance of regular interaction with the Fruit Mandi Associations to ensure that their concerns are promptly brought to the notice of the concerned authorities and resolved effectively.

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