• MLA, DC join locals to celebrate folk traditions, cultural heritage of Pogal area

RAMBAN: The two-day grand Folk Festival   culminated today at the picturesque meadow of Sunaseri (Guglidhar), Pogal Paristan, showcasing the rich folk traditions, cultural heritage and ethnic identity of the Pahari community.

The festival was organized by the locals, in collaboration with the District Administration Ramban, Directorate of Tourism Jammu and Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages, with the objective of promoting indigenous culture and strengthening the potential of Sunsari as an emerging rural and eco-tourism destination.

The festival witnessed enthusiastic participation from thousands of locals and visitors, who enjoyed traditional folk music, cultural performances and local ethnic cuisine, creating a vibrant atmosphere at the scenic destination.

MLA Ramban Arjun Singh Raju and Deputy Commissioner   Mohammad Alyas Khan, along with SSP Arun Gupta, SDM Ramsoo Sayed Mazahir Hussain Shah and other functionaries of civil and police administration joined the huge gathering.

On the occasion, the MLA inaugurated newly developed tourism infrastructure and amenities, executed by the Public Works (R&B) Department at an estimated cost of 2.17 crore. The facilities include eco log huts, viewpoints, benches, improved drainage and connected pathways aimed at enhancing visitor amenities while maintaining the area's natural ecology.

Speaking on the occasion, the MLA   appreciated the  District Administration and the local community for organizing the festival and preserving the region's rich cultural traditions. He described Sunaseri as one of the most picturesque yet unexplored destinations of Ramban and expressed his commitment to making the festival an annual feature after the monsoon season to attract more visitors.

In his speech, the Deputy Commissioner lauded the organizers and participants for their overwhelming response, stating that the festival had provided a vibrant platform to showcase the rich Pahari heritage, folk traditions, music, cuisine and cultural diversity of the region.

The two day festival featured colourful Pahari folk and cultural programmes, showcasing traditional music, dance and local art forms; rural sports competitions promoting the region’s indigenous sporting traditions; and camping activities that offered visitors an opportunity to experience the natural beauty and rural charm of Sunaseri.

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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