DODA: A meeting to review and finalize the arrangements for the Diwali festival 2025 was held today under the chairmanship of Additional Deputy Commissioner Doda, Anil Kumar Thakur in the Conference Hall of the DC Office Complex.

The meeting was attended by ASP Mohammad Aslam; Superintending Engineer Hydraulic Division, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Assistant Commissioner Development, Chief Medical Officer, Medical Superintendent GMC Doda, Executive Officers of Municipal Committees and functionaries from PHE, PDD, Food Safety, Transport, Fire and Emergency Services, FCS&CA and Legal Metrology. The functionaries of local administration and Executive Officers from Bhaderwah, Thathri, Assar and Gandoh attended the meeting through virtual mode.

 Detailed discussions were held regarding arrangements related to uninterrupted power and water supply, traffic regulation, sanitation and cleanliness drives, fire safety, medical facilities and law and order management to ensure a peaceful and joyous celebration of the festival of lights.

The stakeholder departments were directed to take measures for uninterrupted power and water supply during the festival days, maintenance of cleanliness in markets and religious places and illumination of streets and public areas. Fire and Emergency Services were instructed to remain alert near crowded places, while the Health Department was directed to keep medical teams and ambulances on standby to handle any emergency situation. The Police and Traffic Departments were asked to regulate vehicular movement for smooth traffic flow, particularly around marketplaces, temples and to maintain law and order during the celebrations.

The Additional Deputy Commissioner emphasized the need to check and identify safe zones for setting up firecracker stalls and directed the SDMs and Tehsildars to designate appropriate locations for the same. It was decided that the Sports Stadium in Doda town would be used for the sale of firecrackers this year. The ADC also reviewed the deployment of magistrates and security personnel in sensitive areas to ensure safety during the celebrations. Executive Officers of the Municipal Committees were instructed to install new streetlights and repair damaged ones, while the business community was encouraged to decorate their shops and business establishments to enhance the festive atmosphere across the district.

The Chief Medical Officer was asked to ensure adequate medical facilities and round-the-clock ambulance services during the festival. The availability of essential commodities was also reviewed, and the Food Safety Department was directed to conduct regular market inspections along with the FCS&CA Department.

Flying squads were constituted to monitor market rates, quality and hygiene of food items. The Fire and Emergency Department was asked to deploy fire tenders in sensitive areas, while the PDD was instructed to ensure uninterrupted power supply. The District Information Centre Doda was directed to publish safety advisories related to firecrackers and other precautionary measures for public awareness.

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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