JAMMU: Deputy Commissioner Jammu Dr. Rakesh Minhas today chaired a meeting to review preparations for the forthcoming Jhiri Mela. He called upon all departments to work in close coordination to ensure a vibrant and enriching event.

The DC emphasised that this year’s mela should spotlight the region’s rich handicraft and handloom traditions, including Calico prints, Basohli art, Phulkari, Bamboo crafts and other GI-tagged products. ā€œJhiri Mela is not only a spiritual and cultural festival but also a platform to celebrate our rich traditions and heritage. Let us ensure that visitors get to explore the diversity of our crafts and culture in an organized and welcoming manner,ā€ he stressed.

Describing the vision of the mela as a socio-cultural celebration, the DC said that separate zones would be earmarked for food courts, handicraft stalls, cultural programmes and devotional gatherings to provide a systematic and family-friendly experience. The Information Department was directed to ensure wide publicity of the event.

Reviewing infrastructure and logistics, the DC directed departments to streamline parking and traffic management, ensure smooth accommodation arrangements and earmark spaces for langars. He instructed concerned departments to complete repair and restoration of canals and banks and take measures to replenish the historic Bawa Talab ahead of the mela.

On utilities and public services, the DC laid stress on ensuring piped water supply, adequate street lighting, food safety inspections and strict vigil on overpricing. The Power Development Department was asked to strengthen the power infrastructure for uninterrupted electricity supply. Sanitation and public health were emphasised as top priorities, with directions issued for a robust garbage management plan, fogging drives and availability of health and emergency services at the mela site.

The DC also underscored the importance of youth activities, including kabaddi, volleyball and tug-of-war, as vital parts of the mela. Strategies for barricading and effective crowd management were also discussed. The meeting was attended by ADDC Sher Singh, SDM Marh Pallavi Mishra, Chief Planning Officer Ajaypal Singh, SE PWD and other senior district officers. Expressing confidence in the collective efforts of all departments, Dr. Minhas said that Jhiri Mela-2025 will emerge as a memorable socio-cultural extravaganza, drawing devotees and visitors alike.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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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