• Says tourism, Healthcare, Education, and connectivity witnessing upgrades as Govt targets holistic development

JAMMU: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Provincial President for Jammu, Rattan Lal Gupta, said that the Omar Abdullah–led government is actively working to unlock the tourism potential of Bani and transform it into a thriving hub on both the regional and national tourism map. He said Dr. Rameshwar Singh MLA Bani doing his best efforts for the inclusive development of Bani Constituency.

He made these remarks while addressing a workers’ gathering in Bani. The meeting was chaired by Thakur Beliram and saw active participation from senior party leaders and local functionaries, including Rakesh Singh Raka and Advocate Rakesh Singh, Rattan Lal Kalandri, Sanjay Singh and Jaswant Singh.

In his address, Gupta stated that Bani’s tourism potential had long remained untapped under successive non-NC regimes. He alleged that no substantial efforts were made by the BJP over the past 11 years to improve the condition of the region or uplift the lives of its people. “Local schools, college, and health centers in Bani were in a dilapidated state due to non- functional attitude of LG regime. A young girl from Halwai even had to write to the Prime Minister seeking intervention to repair her school, but no action was taken during the LG administration. There was hardly any visible development, and critical projects were neglected,” he said.

Gupta, however, added that the situation has improved since the Omar Abdullah-led government assumed office. “The government has allocated ₹228 crores for development projects in Bani. Several projects have been completed, while others are nearing completion. Healthcare and educational infrastructure are being upgraded. The school that the young girl had written about has now been constructed and completed, reflecting the intent and commitment of the elected government,” he said.

He further noted that road infrastructure, including inner routes, is being upgraded, and previously stalled projects are now progressing. “People are relieved as the local administration has become more responsive and accountable,” he added.

Reiterating the government’s commitment, Gupta said that Bani’s tourism potential will be fully explored, with destinations like Sarthal being developed into major tourist attractions. “The Omar Abdullah-led government is focused on inclusive development, without discrimination based on region, religion, or sect. Despite limited resources and various challenges, the government is making steady progress in improving civic amenities, ensuring ration supply, generating employment, protecting heritage and ecology, and promoting local art, craft, and tourism,” he said. Mr Gupta urged all the party functionaries to gear up the party cadre for Panchayat elections.

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