JAMMU: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for sanctioning construction of a helipad along with a waiting lounge facility at Qasab in Mendhar, Poonch district. The project, sanctioned at an estimated cost of ā‚¹3.35 crore, marks a significant step towards strengthening the critical infrastructure in the border area along LoC.

Rana, representing Mendhar Assembly, stated that establishment of the helipad and accompanying waiting lounge will play a crucial role in enhancing emergency response capabilities, improving accessibility and facilitating swift movement during medical emergencies, disaster management operations and other urgent situations. The facility will also support administrative and relief operations in the area, which often face geographical and logistical challenges due to its remote and hilly terrain.

Expressing appreciation, Rana said the timely sanction by the Chief Minister reflects his strong commitment to balanced regional development and the welfare of people living in far-flung and border areas. He noted that improved connectivity infrastructure such as helipads can be life-saving in emergencies, particularly in regions where road access can be limited or affected by weather conditions.

ā€œThe sanctioning of this project will significantly enhance the capacity of the administration to respond promptly to emergencies and ensure better connectivity for the people of Mendhar and surrounding areas. I sincerely thank Chief Minister for his continued support and vision for strengthening infrastructure in remote areas along LoC,ā€ the Minister said.

The Minister reiterated that the government remains dedicated towards strengthening the infrastructure, improving accessibility and ensuring that developmental initiatives reach every corner of Jammu and Kashmir, especially the underserved and border areas.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following šŸ‘‡

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  Read the message here