JAMMU: In a significant step towards enhancing women welfare coupled with improving public transportation, Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Chowdhary, today launched a free bus service for women across the region. The initiative included both the electric buses and Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) buses. This will ensure safe, accessible and cost-free travel for women, including working professionals, students and daily commuters.

The launch event, held in Jammu, was attended by the Commissioner Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC), along with senior officers from the concerned departments. The Deputy Chief Minister flagged off the service, marking fulfilment of yet another key promise of the present government.

Speaking to media persons at the event, the Deputy Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment towards addressing the needs of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “Since formation of present government, we have worked tirelessly to deliver on our promises, including restoration of statehood, protection of jobs and land, provision of free electricity and now this free bus service for women,” he stated. He added that the initiative reflects the administration’s efforts towards alleviating the travel burdens faced by women besides promoting their empowerment.

During the flag-off ceremony, the Deputy Chief Minister interacted with the women passengers, reiterating the government’s dedication towards resolving longstanding issues in the region. “This is a step towards ensuring women’s safety, convenience and inclusion in public spaces. We are committed towards addressing all genuine concerns of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.

To avail the free service, the women only need to show their Aadhaar cards to the bus conductor upon boarding any government-operated bus, including e-Buses. The JKRTC has streamlined the process by equipping the conductors with POS machines to register passengers efficiently by entering their Aadhaar details. This pioneering initiative is expected to set a benchmark for women-centric policies in the region, fostering greater mobility and independence for women across Jammu and Kashmir.

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