• Gupta advocates for reinstating special status to J&K

BHADARWAH: Senior National Conference leader and Hon’ble  Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Rana, stated that despite delays in the restoration of statehood, the Omar-led government is making significant development strides in the Chenab region, particularly Bhadarwah.

He made these remarks while addressing a massive workers’ meeting in Bhadarwah on the third leg of his Chenab visit.  The meeting was chaired by Sheikh Mehboob Iqbal. Also present were Provincial President Jammu Rattan Lal Gupta, OBC Cell Chairman Abdul Gani Teli, Abdul Qayoom Bhagwan District President Doda Rural (Bhadarwah), JKNCSU President Harshvardhan Singh, and youth leader Arun Pal Singh.

Rana said that despite numerous challenges, the Omar-led elected government is working to bring Bhadarwah back on the path of development. “The government does not lack intent. We are fully aware of how our people in Bhadarwah have suffered for over a decade due to shortages of water, electricity, roads, essential medicines, and teachers in schools. Now, the elected government is addressing past neglect by restarting all stalled schemes and projects.

Many infrastructure projects have already been completed, while several others are set to be inaugurated in the coming weeks and months. Our government’s sole focus is to provide long-overdue administrative relief to our people. In the Chenab region, my ministry is working on multiple levels to safeguard local ecology and forests, ensure clean potable water, and support tribal communities in leading dignified lives.”

Rattan Lal Gupta, while advocating for the restoration of J&K’s special status, said, “From being a state founded by the Dogras to a Union Territory, the situation under BJP rule tells a grim tale of losses. Our territory was divided, special land and job rights were stripped away, and our dignity was undermined. What was once one of India’s most empowered states has been reduced to a shadow of its former self. Despite active participation in elections at all levels from DDCs to Parliament and the legislature the Government of India has not honored its commitments regarding statehood restoration, which could provide relief to our people and allow the elected government to serve them effectively.”

He further urged to the party functionaries to gear up their cadre for the upcoming Panchayat and Local Bodies elections. Sheikh Mehboob Iqbal highlighted various issues faced by the people, to which Minister Rana assured prompt redressal. Among others who were present included: Ghulam Ali Shakhsaz,, Abdul Afiz Butt District Secretary Doda Rural, Sheikh Irshad Laway, Mohd Ayub Nazar, Zulfkair Block Presidents, Block Secretaries and party functionaries  were also present. 

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