JAMMU: With the union finance budget for 2024-25 approaching, the Jammu and Kashmir Border Area Development Conference (JK-BADC), a group focused on helping border area residents and tribals  has asked the Union government to provide special tax relief to people living in Jammu and Kashmir's border regions. BADC wants these provisions included in the upcoming budget, noting that residents near the Line of Control (LoC) and the International border have faced hardships for over 75 years and need relief through special tax rebates.

Dr. Shazad Ahmed Malik, former Vice Chancellor and Chairman of BADC, pointed out that border area residents lack many of the facilities and resources available to those in mainland India.  Therefore, BADC is asking for special tax rebates in GST and Income Tax for employees, businessmen, and entrepreneurs in these areas. Dr. Shazad appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to consider this request, given the tough conditions faced by border area residents.  

He also emphasized that local contractors and suppliers in these areas should get priority for minor work contracts to help them earn a livelihood locally. Additionally, he advocated for students from border areas to receive reservations and discounts on admission fees to national universities and institutions of eminence to ensure they have equal and fair opportunities.

Dr. Shazad also called for sufficient budgetary provisions for the tribal population of Jammu and Kashmir, which has increased from 10 percent to 20 percent. This growing population needs more support and resources to meet their needs.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇