GULMARG: In preparation for the much-anticipated Chillai Kalan festival, set to be held on December 24 at the scenic tourist destination of Gulmarg, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the  Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA), Tariq Hussain, along with other officers conducted a thorough inspection and finalized the arrangements for the event, ensuring a seamless experience for visitors and participants alike.  

Sub-divisional Magistrate Gulmarg, Syed Altaf Mosvi, District Information Officer Baramulla, Iftakhar Ahmad, officers from the Indian Army and other senior officers comprised the team who conducted the field visit.  The inspection included a thorough review of the venue, Gulmarg Club, where the festival’s main events will take place and the areas earmarked for cultural performances, exhibitions of local crafts, and winter sports activities. 

The Chillai Kalan festival will feature traditional music and dance performances, stalls showcasing authentic Kashmiri cuisine, and exhibitions highlighting the region’s rich artisanal legacy.  Arrangements such as seating, sound systems, heating, lighting, safety and security measures were thoroughly scrutinized to guarantee a memorable experience for the visitors. 

The team paid special attention to infrastructure, including the condition of roads, public utilities, and accommodations, to ensure that Gulmarg is fully equipped to handle the anticipated influx of visitors during the festival.  Snow clearance operations and installation of directional signage, were discussed to enhance accessibility and convenience.  

The team also held a meeting with the hoteliers of Gulgmarg and urged to ensure the availability of accommodations for the participants and visitors thronging Gulmarg on the day of celebration of the Chillai Kalan Festival. Speaking on the occasion the CEO GDA underscored that Chilaikalan festival is not just an event, it is a celebration of the spirit of Kashmir during its most enchanting season and administration has put all the necessary arrangements in place to make this festival a memorable experience for everyone.

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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