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.). 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

KUPWARA: Following the directions of Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, Shrikanth Suse,  the Food Safety Department has carried out extensive inspection drives across the district in recent days. The drives were led by Assistant Commissioner Food Safety Rafi Ahmad Dar, along with Tehsildar Kupwara, police team and other officers inspected restaurants and eateries. 

Meanwhile, a consignment of Kababs and Ristas brought from district Budgam was seized and  destroyed later on. However, samples of these items have been sent to the Food Laboratory, Ghaziabad, for detailed analysis, the department said. In a separate action by the department, a fine of ₹8,000 was imposed on two butchers in Handwara on August 9 for selling deteriorated meat. Besides, around 50 kg of the unfit meat was confiscated and destroyed on the spot.

All restaurants, hotels, and other food business operators are have been  asked not to sell any frozen chicken, meat, or related items that pose health risks to the public. Any person found dealing in such unsafe or substandard food items will face strict legal action and prosecution in the court of law. 

Selling misbranded, substandard, or unsafe food can attract penalties of up to ₹5 lakh, and in certain cases, ₹3 lakh as per the nature of violation. The Food Safety Department Kupwara reiterates its commitment to ensuring the availability of safe, hygienic food for the public and will continue such drives across the district.

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