PAMPORE: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayat, Javid Ahmad Dar, today visited the saffron belt of Lethpora, Chandhara and Khrew in Pampore, Pulwama district, to engage with the saffron growers and reaffirm the government’s commitment to their welfare. The visit underscores the government’s dedication towards preserving and promoting Kashmir’s iconic saffron industry.

During his visit, Agriculture Minister interacted with the saffron growers and took stock of their issues and concerns. These included irrigation challenges, real estate pressures and the need for modern agricultural technologies. He assured immediate redressal of their issues and emphasized the government’s efforts to strengthen the saffron sector through targeted interventions.

Javid Dar also attended a training program at the India International Kashmir Saffron Trading Centre (IIKSTC) in Dussoo, where he addressed the saffron growers, highlighting the importance of saffron as a cultural and economic asset.  The event was graced by the presence of MLA Pampore, Justice (Retd.) Hasnain Masoodi and others.

Director Agriculture provided a comprehensive briefing to the dignitaries, joined by the Chief Agriculture Officer, Pulwama, the Administrator of IIKSTC and other officials. They highlighted the progress made under the National Mission on Saffron. MLA Pampore discussed the regional dynamics and the importance of supporting the saffron farmers.

Javid Dar reiterated the success of the National Mission on Saffron. The introduction of e-auctions at IIKSTC has ensured fair pricing, with saffron prices rising from ₹80,000 per kg to ₹2,20,000 per kg in 2021-22, directly benefiting the farmers, he added.

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