KISHTWAR: Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma today convened a review meeting to finalize preparations for the upcoming Shri Mindhal Mata Yatra 2026. The review meeting focused on ensuring the smooth conduct of the Yatra and the provision of essential services for the pilgrims.

The Deputy Commissioner issued key directions for adequate arrangements at the Gauri Shankar Temple, Sarkoot and en route to the holy shrine of Shri Mindhal Mata. He directed the concerned departments to ensure the availability of essential commodities including uninterrupted water and power supply, maintenance of roads, especially at landslide-prone areas en route to Mindhal Mata, proper boarding and lodging facilities for the yatris at the stay venues, security arrangements and proper sanitation facilities for the devotees.

The Deputy Commissioner directed the JPDCL and Jal Shakti Department to provide 24Ɨ7 uninterrupted power and water supply, respectively, at Langar venues and stay venues for the yatris. The Health Department was directed to ensure the deployment of medical staff at the stay venues of the yatris, viz. Sarkoot Mandir Kishtwar, Gulabgarh Padder, Maha Kali Mandir Sohal and at Langar venues to provide first-aid facilities. Further, it was also directed to ensure the availability of ambulance services at these locations for any emergency.

The Municipal Council was directed to ensure cleanliness at the Gauri Shankar Mandir premises. The Police Department was instructed to coordinate with the Himachal Pradesh Police to ensure proper security arrangements en route to Mindhal Mata up to the jurisdiction of district Kishtwar, besides the deployment of security personnel at Langar venues. For effective crowd and vehicle movement, the ARTO and Traffic Police have been tasked with comprehensive traffic management along the Yatra route.

Additionally, the PMGSY, GREF and BRO have been directed to carry out timely road maintenance to ensure the safe and uninterrupted travel of pilgrims. It is noteworthy that the Holy Mace of Shri Mindhal Mata Yatra is scheduled to arrive at the Gauri Shankar Temple Kishtwar on June 10, 2026. The meeting was attended by ADC Pawan Kotwal CEO KDA Kaiser Bhawani, ACR Idrees lone, Tehsildar Nirbhay Sharma besides other officers and concerned staff.

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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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