BARAMULLA: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Science & Technology, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and ARI & Trainings Satish Sharma today laid the foundation stone for upgradation of Playfield at Chankhan Sopore here with an aim to strengthen sports infrastructure and promote youth engagement across North Kashmir. 

MLA Sopore, Irshad Rasool Kar; senior officers of J&K Sports Council, District officers and representatives from local sports associations were also present on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister emphasized on the government’s  commitment towards nurturing sports culture across Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that the Government under the leadership of CM Omar Abdullah is making continuous efforts to strengthen the sports ecosystem by upgrading playfields, creating new sports infrastructure, and ensuring access to better training facilities for young athletes.

He further added that the upgradation of Chankhan Sopore playfield will not only provide modern sports amenities but also open new opportunities for youth engagement, recreation, and community development. “Sports is a powerful medium for channelizing the energy of our youth in the right direction, and the government is fully committed towards ensuring that every block and town has quality sports infrastructure,” he stated.

MLA Sopore, Irshad Rasool Kar, lauded the initiative and expressed gratitude to the Minister for his focused approach towards promoting sports in North Kashmir. He added that the upgraded playfield would become a hub of sports activities for local youth and encourage participation in outdoor physical and cultural pursuits.

Officers of J&K Sports Council briefed the Minister about the technical details of the project and assured timely completion of works with high-quality standards.

It was informed that the project, being executed by Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council at an estimated cost of Rs. 100.00 lakhs, aims to transform the existing playfield into a modern and well-equipped sports arena. It was given out that the upgraded facility will cater to multiple sporting disciplines and provide local youth with a dedicated space to hone their talent and participate in state and national-level competitions.

The Minister, on the occasion, also took a review of various works being undertaken for strengthening sports infrastructure across Sopore. He directed the officers for speedy completion of these works. On the sidelines of the event, the Minister also interacted with local youth, sports enthusiasts, and community members, who expressed gratitude for the government’s continued efforts to boost sports development in Sopore and adjoining areas.

While responding to the demands of sportspersons and local youth, the Minister said that the Government is determined to provide all support and assistance to sportspersons, adding that rules have been notified under which Government job is provided to outstanding sports persons. The Minister, on the occasion, also watched the finals of Rahim Memorial Tournament and distributed prizes among the winner and runner up teams.

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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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