POONCH: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today held an interactive session with the prominent intellectuals, former civil servants and members of civil society in Poonch today. The session witnessed vibrant and insightful discussions on educational infrastructure, healthcare services and overall developmental gaps in the district. Emphasis was laid on the urgent need for systemic reforms and administrative intervention to uplift the standard of living, particularly in remote and underdeveloped areas.

Civil society representatives suggested a series of strategic interventions aimed at building a more empathetic, inclusive and morally responsible society, rooted in ethical values. They stressed the importance of community engagement, youth empowerment and value-based education to strengthen the district’s social fabric.

Importantly, the civil society members also urged the Minister to take effective steps for preservation and promotion of local culture, heritage and indigenous tribal languages, recognizing them as vital elements of the region’s identity and diversity. They further requested him for bringing tangible improvements in the sectors of health, education and infrastructure.

A key highlight of the interaction was the discussion around the untapped tourism potential of Poonch, with stakeholders strongly advocating for vigorous promotion of sustainable tourism. They underlined the strategic importance of completing critical infrastructure projects, especially the Mughal Road tunnel and the Loran-Tangmarg Road, which are vital to improving year-round connectivity with the Kashmir Valley.

Responding to the concerns, Javed Ahmed Rana assured the attendees of his full commitment towards the holistic development of Poonch. He emphasized that inclusive dialogue and active civic participation are essential for effective governance. He assured that the feedback and recommendations shared would be taken up at the highest level for appropriate action.

The Minister also reiterated the Omar Abdullah Government’s focus on equitable regional development, environmental sustainability, eco-tourism and tribal welfare. He highlighted several initiatives already underway to address some of the issues raised during the session.

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