KATHUA: In a major crackdown against illegal mining activities and unauthorised processing of mined material, Kathua district administration closed down 25 stone crushers here today. The action was initiated by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Rakesh Minhas after conducting physical verification and assessing the working of stone crusher units operating in the district. 

Earlier, a team of mining department was also deputed by the Deputy Commissioner at various places from where a large number of complaints of Illegal Mining and unauthorised transportation of minerals were received in the DC office.

It was informed that after a spot visit, a detailed list of unauthorised stone crushers operating in the district was also prepared and placed before the Deputy Commissioner for action. All these crushers have already given ample opportunity of being heard through notices.

A formal order in this regard has also been issued by the authorities whereby one week time has been granted to stone crushers to close down their crusher units and remove their structures and machinery installed on the sites including ramps in order to avoid any other forceful move of district administration.

It is worthwhile to mention here that four more crusher units have already been closed by the Deputy Commissioner on the request of PCB last year. Further, a communication has been sent to PCB for taking action against operational crusher units for violating pollution norms.

Deputy Commissioner also informed that besides streamlining all existing stone crusher units in the district, no permission shall be granted to install new stone units and similar instructions have already been passed to authorities of the pollution control board.

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

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