SRINAGAR: The Department of Youth Services and Sports (YSS) J&K launched its 4th consecutive skiing training course at the Gulmarg for students from various educational institutions. The 15 days course began, with the Assistant Director of Tourism, Gulmarg, inaugurating the event.  This course features 50 enthusiastic female students from all districts of the Kashmir division. A team of highly skilled trainers is providing comprehensive training in the basics of skiing, ensuring that the participants gain a strong foundation in the sport.

The program is designed to empower young girls with essential skiing skills while fostering a spirit of adventure and sportsmanship. Hilal Ahmed, Incharge of Hutments YSS Gulmarg, shared details about the course, emphasizing the Department’s commitment to providing top-notch training facilities. “The Department of Youth Services and Sports, J&K, is committed to offering the best possible training to these students.

We are ensuring proper accommodation and nutritional food for all participants throughout the course that too free of any charges,” he said. In addition to the Gulmarg program, the Department has also initiated its annual skiing training at the picturesque Gurez Valley and Sonamarg. The 10-day course, which began on Sunday at Darthani Nallah Badwan, Gurez, was inaugurated by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Gurez and the Zonal Education Officer (ZEO) of Gurez. This initiative aims to nurture young talent and promote winter sports in the region. 

Under the guidance of the Director General of Youth Services & Sports J&K, the Gurez program includes 50 boys and girls who are eager to learn and excel in skiing. The course is being conducted under the supervision of the District Youth Services and Sports Officer (DYSSO), Bandipora, along with the dedicated physical education staff of Zone Gurez. 

By popularizing skiing in Gurez, the Department is not only fostering a new generation of athletes but also positioning Gurez as an attractive winter tourism destination. 
The SDM of Gurez, speaking at the inauguration, highlighted the transformative impact of the program. “This skiing course is not just about sports; it’s about empowering our youth and putting Gurez on the map as a winter destination,” he said. These training programs are enhancing Kashmiri’s reputation further as a hub for winter sports, attract skiing enthusiasts, and boost local tourism and economic activities. 

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇