SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today expressed profound grief over the tragic loss of lives and extensive damage caused by cloudburst and landslides in several parts of District Kathua, including Jodh Khad and Juthana, which claimed four lives and left many injured. The Chief Minister conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured, and assured all necessary assistance to the affected people.

To provide immediate relief, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced ex-gratia assistance from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund that would be in addition to the support from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). The financial assistance includes: ₹2 lakh for each deceased, ₹1 lakh for those severely injured, and ₹50,000 for those with minor injuries. For housing damages, ₹1 lakh will be given for fully damaged houses, ₹50,000 for severely damaged houses, and ₹25,000 for partially damaged houses.

The Chief Minister directed the administration to carry out immediate relief, rescue, and evacuation measures on priority to ensure safety of the affected families and to extend full support to them. He said the government stands firmly with the people in this hour of crisis and assured that all possible steps will be taken to mitigate the suffering of those hit by the calamity.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday spoke to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah regarding the situation in Kathua and assured all necessary support from the Centre. The Chief Minister welcomed the Union Home Minister’s assurance and said the joint efforts of the J&K government and the Centre will help provide timely relief and rehabilitation to the affected families.

It is pertinent to mention that only yesterday, the Chief Minister visited the flood-hit Chashoti village in Kishtwar yesterday, which has been devastated by a cloudburst. He personally assessed the damage, interacted with the affected families, and assured full government support for rehabilitation of affected families.

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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