SRINAGAR: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, Satish Sharma, today visited “The Flea Market” by Maple and Ivy at Amar Singh Club. He underscored the need for promoting indigenous products, local entrepreneurship and homegrown brands to strengthen the region’s economy and cultural identity.

Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, was also present on the occasion. During his visit, the Minister inspected various stalls showcasing fashion, handicrafts, food products, décor items and lifestyle brands from across the country, with special appreciation for participation of local Kashmiri entrepreneurs and artisans.

Interacting with the exhibitors and visitors, Satish Sharma said that platforms like the flea market provide immense opportunities to local youth, artisans, startups and small businesses to showcase their talent and products before a wider audience. He stressed that indigenous products represent the rich cultural heritage, craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit of Jammu and Kashmir and deserve stronger market visibility and institutional support.

The Minister observed that promoting locally-made products not only generates employment opportunities for youth but also contributes towards sustainable economic growth and self-reliance. He said the government remains committed towards encouraging innovation, entrepreneurship and market linkages for local businesses and artisans.

Satish Sharma also appreciated the organisers of Maple and Ivy for bringing together local and national brands under one platform and creating a vibrant cultural and commercial space for the people of Srinagar. He noted that such events help foster creativity, community engagement, and economic activity while offering consumers a unique retail and lifestyle experience.

Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani also lauded the initiative and highlighted the importance of creating more such platforms for local entrepreneurs, artisans, and startups. He said Jammu and Kashmir possesses immense creative and entrepreneurial potential which must be promoted through collaborative efforts between government and private stakeholders.

The two-day flea market is featuring over 60 brands from across the country and offers curated shopping experiences, gourmet food stalls, handcrafted products, art and décor exhibits, and interactive community spaces.

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
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 👇