GANDERBAL: District Development Commissioner (DDC) Ganderbal, Shyambir, today chaired a high-level meeting in the Conference Hall of the Mini Secretariat here to discuss the comprehensive work plan for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2025. The meeting commenced with a review of the action plan from the previous year's Yatra, with a strong emphasis on enhancing the quality of services and infrastructure. Discussions revolved around key focus areas, including improvements in health services, sanitation, flood protection measures, solar lighting, parking facilities, mobile connectivity, transport services, contingency plans, and other vital infrastructure to ensure a seamless Yatra experience for pilgrims.

Heads of Departments provided updates on their respective preparations and ongoing projects related to SANJY-2025. The DDC underscored the importance of submitting finalized work plans by January 24, 2025, to enable the timely execution of development works critical to the successful conduct of the Yatra. The Animal Husbandry Department was tasked with identifying suitable locations along the Yatra route for hot water facilities for ponies, while the Jal Shakti Department was directed to ensure the availability of hot water at these identified points.

The Rural Development Department was instructed to prioritize the maintenance of toilet facilities, and BEACON was asked to make provisions for repairing utilities that may require attention during the Yatra. In addition, the ARTO Ganderbal proposed the establishment of a separate SRTC ticket counter and merging of parking areas to streamline transportation and parking management.

Addressing the critical issue of mobile connectivity, the DDC directed telecom companies to submit a detailed plan in advance, with a special focus on strengthening connectivity at the Base Camp Baltal and along the Yatra track from Domail onwards. Officers shared their insights and experiences from the previous year's Yatra, contributing valuable suggestions to further enhance the services provided to pilgrims.

The DDC assured immediate redressal of the issues raised by officers and issued specific directions to concerned departments to address them promptly. Concluding the meeting, the DDC directed all departments associated with the Yatra via the Baltal route to update their action plans and prioritize upgrades in infrastructure and services. The meeting was attended by SSP Ganderbal, Ragav S; Additional Deputy Commissioner Gulzar Ahmad; SDM Kangan, CEO SDA, Executive Engineers from various departments, DFO Sindh Forest Division, and officers from other line departments.

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 👇

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