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KATRA: The High Level Committee (HLC) framed by the Lt. Governor, JK-UT also Chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) held its fifth crucial meeting with the representatives from various associations and groups including MLA, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Constituency, Katra; MLA Reasi, Chairman DDC, Reasi; Muskan Charitable Trust, Katra and Banganga-Charanpaduka Shops Association.

The meeting was promptly convened in response to requests from various associations and groups, demonstrating the committee's proactive approach to community engagement and its commitment to soliciting local input on the ropeway project.

The committee headed by Dr. Ashok Bhan and also comprising of Suresh Sharma, Members of the SMVDSB, Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner of Jammu and Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB held discussions with associations and groups focused on addressing concerns and gathering feedback from stakeholders ensuring that their voices are also heard in the decision-making process for ropeway project as per directions of Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT).

The groups unanimously extended their wholehearted support to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board's development initiatives, including the Passenger Ropeway project. They emphasized the need for sustainable development that enhances infrastructure, amenities and overall experience for pilgrims and locals. However, they also stressed the importance of considering the concerns, needs and aspirations of the local population pertaining to safeguarding their livelihoods & up-gradation of the traditional track of the Banganga and termed it as crucial for striking a delicate balance between fostering developments and preserving the region's unique religious, social and cultural heritage.

The stakeholders appreciated the priority darshan facility extended by the Board to the residents of Katra Town and all 41 villages in Sub-Division, besides, development of Trikuta Hills Parikrama Marg through construction of temples undertaken by the Board.

Muskan Charitable Trust, a Katra-based NGO dedicated to empowering differently-abled children advocated for the Ropeway Project with an aim to facilitate effortless access of divyang devotees to the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, promoting inclusivity and accessibility for all devotees, especially the differently-abled community.

Dr. Bhan expressed his satisfaction with the meeting's outcome stating that it concluded on a positive note with stakeholders committing to collaborative efforts for the region's overall development. He emphasized that the HLC is committed to ongoing dialogue and collaboration, ensuring that every stakeholder's voice is heard before reaching a final decision.

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