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.), who treated me like a brother and mentor. 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

KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, today visited Lakhanpur to take a detailed review of the status of infrastructure and assets available for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY) 2026, in the aftermath of last year’s floods.

During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner conducted a comprehensive inspection of assets belonging to the Tourism Department, Animal Husbandry Department, DDC Office, State Taxes Department and Excise Department that were affected by the floods. He assessed the extent of damage and reviewed the scope for restoration, strengthening and optimal utilisation of available infrastructure during the Yatra period.

The DC also examined the government buildings and logistics facilities to explore their effective use for accommodation, service delivery and facilitation of pilgrims during SANJY 2026.

Later, the Deputy Commissioner visited the Lakhanpur Yard area and took stock of the arrangements to be put in place for establishment of the Lakhanpur Yatra Felicitation Centre. He directed the concerned departments to ensure timely repair, restoration and augmentation of essential infrastructure including power, water supply, sanitation and approach roads to ensure seamless arrangements well ahead of the Yatra. He also directed XEN PWD to ensure blacktopping of the entire entry point including the Yard area.

Besides, the DC directed the Animal Husbandry department to shift its makeshift office to a suitable location at the earliest. Emphasising inter-departmental coordination, the DC instructed officers to prepare a detailed action plan with clear timelines for completion of works and close monitoring of progress on the ground.

The Deputy Commissioner further directed the Executive Officer, Municipal Committee Lakhanpur to undertake comprehensive facelift and beautification of the Lakhanpur entry point, terming it as the gateway of Jammu and Kashmir. He stressed the need to maintain cleanliness, proper signage, landscaping and illumination to ensure that the entry corridor presents a welcoming and aesthetically appealing view to the pilgrims and visitors entering the Union Territory.

The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner State Taxes Joginder Jasrotia, CPO Ranjeet Thakur, XEN PWD, XEN PDD, EO Lakhanpur, CAHO, DIO and other concerned officers.

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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