JAMMU: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today informed the Legislative Assembly that the Gulmarg Development Authority is actively strengthening sanitation and waste management infrastructure in the area. He said that a 2 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) project, costing ₹46.50 crore, has been approved and its execution is proposed to commence in the financial year 2026–27.

Replying to a question raised by MLA Kreeri-Wagoora, the Chief Minister stated that a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Solid Waste Treatment Plant (SWTP) is currently under preparation by the Mechanical and R&B Departments for subsequent approval and execution.

Addressing another query regarding the pendency of registration of pony walas, guides, sledge pullers, photographers and others, the Chief Minister clarified that the delay is not due to administrative reasons. He said it is a deliberate policy decision aimed at maintaining carrying capacity, ensuring environmental sustainability, preventing overcrowding and congestion, and promoting orderly and sustainable tourism development in Gulmarg.

The Chief Minister further informed that ATVs and snow bikes in Jammu & Kashmir are primarily procured by beneficiaries through bank-linked self-employment schemes and entrepreneurship programmes. “The Tourism Department facilitates their registration and grants operational permissions,” he added. MLA Gulmarg, Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, raised a supplementary on the occasion.

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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