PATNITOP: A grand yoga session was conducted at the scenic Patnitop main meadow, here today. The event was organized in commemoration of the ongoing Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan, aiming to leverage the power of yoga and mindfulness to steer the youth away from the menace of substance abuse. The program was organized by the Patnitop Development Authority (PDA) in close collaboration with the district administration Udhampur, Department of AYUSH and the Hotel Association Patnitop.

The event witnessed a diverse gathering, including a large number of school children, visiting tourists, hoteliers and local stakeholders. The students and visitors performed yoga asanas side by side, showcasing a unified community spirit. The technical sessions were managed by yoga specialists and professionals from the Department of AYUSH, Udhampur, who guided participants through breathing exercises, meditation practices and specialized postures tailored to relieve stress and improve physical well-being.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Executive Officer Patnitop Development Authority Virender Kumar Manyal emphasized the deep connection between physical fitness, mental resilience and a drug-free life. He highlighted that substance abuse not only destroys individual health, cognitive capabilities and future career prospects but also tears apart families and weakens the social and economic fabric of communities. He urged the youth to avoid drugs and adopt healthy habits like sports, yoga and outdoor recreation.

The Chief Executive Officer expressed gratitude to Deputy Commissioner Udhampur Minga Sherpa for providing the necessary administrative support and guidance to make the event a success. The CEO further added that organizing such wellness events in hill stations like Patnitop will boost wellness and eco-tourism in the region, positioning the destination as a hub for holistic health retreats.

The event concluded with a collective pledge by all participants, including the administrative staff and local associations, to work toward making their respective areas drug-free and healthy.

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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