Dear Readers, JK Monitor has always been committed to keeping you informed with news and updates that matter. Today, we invite you to become a part of our journey and help us continue serving you. We appeal to our readers, well-wishers, and supporters of independent journalism to come forward and contribute towards the continued growth and sustainability of JK Monitor. Every contribution, big or small, is a valuable gesture of support. JK Monitor is more than a news platform; it is a voice we build together. Your support can help keep that voice strong. To contribute or know more, please contact us at 9906103001. Stand with JK Monitor. Support independent journalism.

SRINAGAR: To ensure successful conduct of 3rd edition of upcoming “Chinar Book Festival” scheduled from July 18 to July 26, 2026, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo chaired a comprehensive meeting here today at Meeting Hall of the DC Office Complex. The nine-day event is organized jointly by the National Book Trust (NBT) and the National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL)

The Book Festival is being organized through the collaborative efforts of the National Book Trust, India (Ministry of Education, Govt of India), National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL) and the District Administration Srinagar at Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC).

At the outset, the DC reviewed the detailed arrangements and preparations being put in place for the literary festival ensuring that the literary festival is organized in a well coordinated manner and provide an engaging platform for readers, authors, publishers, artists, and students from across the country, while promoting a vibrant reading culture and encouraging greater participation among literary enthusiasts.

On the occasion, the DC stressed timely coordination among line departments, particularly regarding participant mobilization, transportation, sanitation, etc to ensure the seamless and smooth conduct of the literary festival. He highlighted the festival’s potential to inspire youth towards reading, writing, and cultural engagement, while also promoting Jammu & Kashmir's rich literary heritage on a global stage.

During the meeting, it was informed that the 2026 edition of the Chinar Book festival is expected to offer a rich tapestry of book launches, author meet-and-greets, panel discussions, poetry recitations and storytelling sessions. In addition, the festival will showcase local literary talent, children’s activities, cultural performances and workshops aimed at promoting reading and writing among youth.

The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Aadil Fareed, Additional Secretary Culture Academy, Adeel Saleem, Joint commissioner SMC, Nuzhat Khurshid, SP Headquarter, Umar Shah, Additional CEO SCCL, Suhail ul Islam, Chief Planning Officer, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Programme Officer ICDS, Bureeda Majid, Officers from Higher Education, School Education, Principles of Government Polytechnic Colleges & Industrial Training Institutes, Medical Superintendents, Executive Engineers, concerned District Officers and others. Chief Convenor Chinar Book Festival, Amit Wanchoo, Coordinator National Book Trust, Shobha Kapoor and other concerned also participated in 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

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