UDHAMPUR: In a vibrant display of community and environmental stewardship, Patnitop Development Authority celebrated World Tourism Day 2025 with a series of events centered on this year's theme "Tourism & Sustainable Transformation." The celebration brought together various government departments, local stakeholders, and members of the public and tourists to highlight the importance of responsible tourism and ecological preservation.

The day's events included an Eco Walk, a Painting Competition, a Sanitation Drive, and a Plantation Drive, all designed to foster a greater appreciation for the region's natural beauty and promote sustainable practices The Chief Executive Officer, Patnitop Development Authority along with SDM Chenani and Tehsildar Chenani and Accounts Officer, PDA officially flagged off the Eco Walk event, setting the tone for a day dedicated to environmental consciousness.

The presence of key officials from the local administration underscored the importance of the collaborative partnership between the PDA and the District Administration Udhampur in promoting sustainable tourism.   Chief Executive Officer Patnitop Development Authority Virender Kumar Manyal spoke passionately about the significance of the event. He provided a detailed overview of the day's activities and underscored the critical role that sustainable tourism plays in the long-term prosperity of the region.

He emphasized that the "Tourism & Sustainable Transformation" theme is particularly relevant to Patnitop, as it calls for a collective effort to preserve its pristine environment for future generations. The CEO highlighted the collaborative spirit that made the event possible, thanking all participating organizations for their unwavering support. A key highlight of the celebration was the Painting Competition, which saw enthusiastic participation from students of Government High School (GHS), Karlah.

The young students expressed their creativity and understanding of the event's theme through their vibrant artwork. Prizes were awarded to the top three winners, with first, second, and third place prizes distributed among the talented students and all other students were awarded a certificate of participation. In a heartwarming moment, a special prize was also given to a pre-nursery student for her exceptional and inspiring painting, showcasing that a love for art and nature can start at any age.

The event was a collaborative effort, organized by the Patnitop Development Authority in association with the Directorate of Tourism Jammu, District Administration Udhampur, Forest Department, Hoteliers, other stakeholders of Patnitop, and tourists to ensure its success. This multi-agency collaboration showcased a shared commitment to developing tourism in a way that benefits both the local economy and the environment. The hands-on participation in the Sanitation and Plantation Drives further solidified this commitment, with participants working together to clean up designated areas and plant new trees.

The CEO PDA extended his sincere gratitude to  Saloni Rai, Deputy Commissioner Udhampur and Vikas Gupta, Director Tourism Jammu, for their crucial support in making the celebration a resounding success. Their leadership and assistance were instrumental in orchestrating the event. 

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 👇