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
  • Road reconstruction, health camps & Mission YUVA tagged as key focus areas

KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, today conducted an extensive tour of Billawar Sub Division to review developmental works, inspect restoration measures and take stock of service delivery initiatives. At PWD Guest House Billawar, the Deputy Commissioner chaired an introductory-cum-review meeting with district and sectoral officers. He called upon officers to work with full dedication to ensure timely completion of works and responsive public service delivery. Revenue authorities were directed to expedite relief cases under SDRF and complete documentation in a time-bound manner, while BDOs were asked to accelerate developmental works in their respective blocks.

MLA Billawar Satish Kumar Sharma, ADC Billawar Vinay Khosla, ADC Kathua Vishavjeet Singh, ACD Kathua Akhil Sadotra, SE PWD Kathua-Samba Circle, XEN PWD Billawar, XEN PMGSY, XEN Jal Shakti Kathua, XEN PDD, Tehsildars of Billawar, Lohai Malhar and Ramkot, BDOs of Billawar and Mandli, CDPO Billawar other sectoral officers were also present.

On Mission YUVA, the DC instructed ALC Kathua to work in close coordination with CDPOs and BDOs for effective outreach to youth. The DSWO Kathua was asked to conduct awareness drives in schools and colleges. The SDAO Billawar and Horticulture Officer were directed to submit damage assessment reports by Monday. The BMO Billawar was tasked with organising health camps and conducting water testing at healthcare centres, while EO MC Billawar was directed to carry out fogging in vulnerable areas. He also apprised that there are no pending cases under PMAY-U in the town.

The Deputy Commissioner later visited CHC Billawar to review the ongoing construction of the new hospital building. The BMO along with XEN PWD informed that the work is progressing as per schedule and is targeted for completion by December 2025. The DC also inspected roads and other public assets along the Billawar–Sukrala stretch besides Katli and Lakhri areas to assess damages caused.

At Ramkot, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the physical status of land transfer for the newly sanctioned Kendriya Vidyalaya. Earlier in the day, the DC inspected the bridge and approach road over Pedu Nallah to oversee the pace of restoration work. He also visited the Dhanni area and directed the concerned officers to ensure quick restoration of road connectivity for the convenience of the public.

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