KATHUA: In a momentous achievement that has brought pride to the Government Degree College (GDC) Kathua and the 4 J&K NCC Battalion, Cadet Mohit Knathia has successfully scaled Mount Everest, the world's highest peak at 8,848.86 meters. He reached the summit on May 18, 2025, as a member of the prestigious National Cadet Corps (NCC) Everest Expedition 2025.

Cadet Knathia, representing GDC Kathua, was one of only ten cadets selected from across the nation through an intensive selection process. His remarkable endurance, commitment, and rigorous training earned him the distinction of being the sole representative from Jammu & Kashmir on this historic mission.

The expedition was officially flagged off by the Raksha Mantri, Rajnath Singh, on April 3, 2025. Prior to the ascent, the team underwent exhaustive training, including a preparatory climb of Mount Abi Gamin and a winter camp at the Siachen Base Camp, under the expert guidance of the Army Mountaineering Institute.

Braving extreme conditions and treacherous terrain, Cadet Mohit Knathia reached the summit and proudly unfurled the National Flag alongside the NCC Flag, embodying the spirit of courage, discipline, and patriotism. This marks the third successful Everest summit by an NCC team, following similar triumphs in 2013 and 2016.

The College Principal Prof. Seema Mir expressed immense pride in Mohit's accomplishment, stating, “Cadet Mohit Knathia has become a beacon of inspiration for youth of Jammu & Kashmir. His perseverance and spirit reflect the core values of the NCC and our institution.” She also commended Lt. (Dr.) Daya Ram, Associate NCC Officer at GDC Kathua, for his unwavering guidance and mentorship that significantly contributed to this success.

The college also extended sincere gratitude to Col. Kuldeep Kachroo and Subedar Shyam Chand, Training JCO of the 4 J&K NCC Battalion, for their instrumental role in shaping Cadet Mohit’s journey through their intensive training and support.

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 👇