JAMMU: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, today informed the House that in a decisive move against illegal mineral extraction, the District Mineral Officer (DMO) Budgam has taken strict action against M/s NKC Projects Private Limited for unauthorized mining at Shaliganaga Nalla in Lanilab Basant Wooder, Budgam.

The issue was highlighted in the Legislative Assembly today by MLA Khan Sahab, Safiud-Din-Bhat, bringing it to the immediate attention of the House. The action follows the circulation of a video on social media on March 2, 2025, exposing the illegal activity. The Deputy Chief Minister said that on receiving the report from the Directorate of Geology and Mining, the DMO Budgam swiftly deputed a team to the site to verify the claims.

Upon investigation, it was confirmed that the company had engaged men and machinery for unauthorized extraction of approximately 300 MT of Nallah Mukh without obtaining the required permits. In response, a formal notice (No. DMO/Bud/DGM/F-106/4558-67, dated March 3, 2025) was issued to the Project Manager of M/s NKC Projects Private Limited, Basecamp Gudsathoo, Budgam, directing an immediate cessation of all illegal mining activities and demanding relevant documentation, he added.

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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