• Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh chairs DISHA Meeting to review progress of development projects in Doda, J&K 

DODA:  Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, MoS, PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh today said the prestigious Chhatergala tunnel connecting Doda and Bhaderwah with Lakhanpur via Basohli-Bani will be a game changer in providing all-weather connectivity to the region, and boosting employment opportunities for the local youth.

He was speaking during the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee Meeting (DISHA) here today. The meeting focused on reviewing the progress of various centrally sponsored schemes and key infrastructure projects in the district. 

Dr Jitendra Singh said the region which had remained untouched by development for the past many decades is now connected by a wide web of highways, improving connectivity in far-flung areas of district Doda. Dr Singh called for early completion of the important projects, including Khellani tunnel and Goha-Marmat Highway to further boost connectivity in the Chenab Valley region. Dr. Singh urged authorities to accelerate the execution of these projects, without lapsing funds. The Union Minister instructed the officials to prioritize public participation in developmental initiatives in line with the spirit of Jan Bhagidari for their effective implementation. 

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring the district's holistic development, the Union minister stressed the importance of implementing local benefit schemes, such as Ayushman Bharat and drug-free initiatives, and called for awareness campaigns to educate the public. He also encouraged officials to organize skill development programs to create job opportunities for unemployed youth and enhance sports activities in the district. 

Dr Jitendra Singh proposed organizing another lavender festival in the district next year to promote its cultivation as well highlight the tourism potential of picturesque Bhaderwah, which he noted has gained wide recognition as a prominent tourist destination. He also called for organising workshops to enhance innovation strategies and improve the district’s agricultural practices. 

During the meeting, Deputy Commissioner Sh. Harvinder Singh provided a comprehensive overview of the developmental activities, including the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), NABARD projects, and the PMGSY scheme. The meeting also addressed compensation issues for road construction under PMGSY and discussed challenges related to forest clearances for ongoing projects.

 The meeting held in the DC Office Complex, was attended among others by MLA, Doda West, Sh. Shakti Raj Parihar, MLA, Bhaderwah, Sh. Dalip Parihar, DDC, Chairman, Sh. Dhananter Singh Kotwal, Deputy Commissioner, Sh. Harvinder Singh, SSP, Sandeep Kumar Mehta, and senior officials from several departments of the district administration.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇