POONCH: In a significant public outreach initiative, Deputy Commissioner Poonch Ashok Kumar Sharma conducted a comprehensive tour of Tehsil Mendhar on Sunday, where he held a public interaction meeting with local residents and prominent citizens. Additional District Development Commissioner Pankaj Magotra, along with other district officers, attended the meeting.

During the interaction, various developmental issues concerning the region were highlighted by the public. Key demands included development of a Playway ground at Mankote, flood relief and proper assessment for affected families, blacktopping of important roads, completion of the Mini Secretariat at Mendhar, functionalizing of JJM schemes and receiving station at Ghani, installation of electric poles in border areas, development of a drainage system for Mendhar market, opening of a J&K Bank branch in Mankote, enrollment of genuine BPL beneficiaries, construction of community bunkers in sensitive areas, and ensuring quality and timely execution of all developmental works.

The Deputy Commissioner gave a patient hearing to all issues and directed the concerned officers to take swift action on genuine concerns. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to transparent and effective governance. He also informed the public that initial relief has already been provided to flood-affected individuals and that further assessments are underway to ensure no genuine case is left out.

Local residents expressed their gratitude to the Deputy Commissioner for his responsive approach and for providing them a platform to voice their concerns. Later, the Deputy Commissioner visited the Ramkund Mandir, where he paid obeisance, interacted with the committee members and discussed developmental issues related to the shrine.

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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