KATHUA: A meeting to discuss the draft Zonal Master Plan for the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) of Jasrota Wildlife Sanctuary was held today under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma, who is also the Chairman of the Monitoring Committee.

The meeting focused on the proposed Eco-Sensitive Zone notified around Jasrota Wildlife Sanctuary- an area  highly rich in flora and wildlife. An ecological overview of the sanctuary was presented, highlighting key conservation priorities.

It was informed that the draft Zonal Master Plan has been prepared by Everain Global Services- Noida after detailed field surveys and interactions with the residents of villages adjoining the sanctuary to incorporate local concerns and ground realities.

The 10 year management plan outlines a structured framework for conservation and sustainable development of the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ). It categorises activities as promotional, regulated and prohibited, besides suggesting measures for horticulture and agriculture management, addressing grazing issues, human-wildlife conflict, forest fire management, biodiversity conservation and water management.

The draft also proposes a Tourism Master Plan focusing on heritage and eco-tourism, including trekking routes and important sites such as Jasrota Fort, Kul Dev Baba Kalibir Ji Temple, Jasrota Kalimata Mandir and Ujh Barrage. Restoration of Jasrota Fort using traditional materials has been recommended.

The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned departments to submit their suggestions within 10 days, adding that the plan will be approved after incorporating inputs from all stakeholders.

CPO Ranjit Thakur, officials from Forest, Pollution, Agriculture, Jal Shakti, Flood Control, Industries besides nominated members and team members from M/S Everain Global Services Pvt Ltd  attended the meeting.

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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