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

KATHUA: In a landmark move for the agrarian landscape of Jasrota, Rajiv Jasrotia, MLA Jasrota, today inaugurated the Paddy Procurement Mandi (Registration‑cum‑Facilitation Centre) at Dhanni Bhakhta, Block Barnoti—a remote Kandi region that now stands to benefit more than 35 Panchayats. Prominent among those present on the occasion included Chief Agriculture Officer Kathua, Jitendra Khajuria and his worthy team, SDAO Ashwani Sharma, BDO Barnoti Suraj Singh, AEE PWD Mahesh, AEE PHE Himanshu, XEN Flood Control Kathua ,Abnish Kumar, Sarpnachs Shivdev Singh, Balwant Singh, Randeep Singh, several Pancha and hundreds of prominent citizens in the area.

Speaking on the occasion, Jasrotia said that newly‑established centre is designed to ensure smooth, transparent, and timely procurement of paddy at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of ₹2,369 per quintal for Common Paddy and ₹2,389 per quintal for Grade‑A Paddy, thereby guaranteeing fair and assured returns to local farmers. He emphasised that such centres will strengthen the rural economy, eliminate middlemen and empower farming communities. He noted that the establishment of the Paddy Mandi in Jasrota Constituency fulfils a persistent demand of local farmers, offering better accessibility and convenience.

Jasrotia reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to farmer welfare through improved procurement infrastructure, enhanced transparency, and prompt payment disbursement. He called upon the Agriculture Department and Food Corporation of India (FCI) to ensure efficient operations and timely payments. He urged field officers to extend full assistance to farmers, ensuring no inconvenience during procurement. He encouraged farmers to utilise the registration‑cum‑facilitation centre for seamless documentation and quick processing.

Jasrotia highlighted that awareness campaigns through Panchayat‑level meetings, posters, and social media are being amplified to keep every farmer well‑informed about MSP benefits and mandi operations. He affirmed that the centre will revolutionise paddy procurement in the Kandi belt , fostering prosperity and equity for the farming fraternity of Jasrota.By eliminating middlemen, we empower local farming communities and boost the rural economy. The long‑standing demand for a procurement hub in Jasrota Constituency is finally fulfilled, bringing the mandi closer to homes and fields.Together, we are sowing the seeds of prosperity. Let this mandi become the cornerstone of a thriving Jasrota, where every farmer’s toil is honored and rewarded, said Jasrotia.

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