SRINAGAR: Minister for Agriculture  Production  Department, Rural  Development  Department and Panchayati  Raj, Cooperative  and Election  Department, Javid  Ahmad Dar, along  with MLA Pahalgam Altaf Ahmad Wani, today visited the base camp Nunwan to review the arrangements made for smooth conduct of the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra ( SANJY2025).

The dignitaries inspected the sanitation infrastructure, public facilities and sustainability measures put in place by the Directorate of Rural Sanitation to ensure a clean, safe and dignified experience for the pilgrims.

Secretary Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Aijaz Asad, Director General Rural Sanitation, Anoo Malhotra and senior officers of the Rural Development Department also accompanied the Minister. During the visit, the Minister interacted with the sanitation workers deployed across various points. He lauded their outstanding contribution in maintaining hygiene and healthy environment along the Yatra route.

A special highlight of the visit was the felicitation of a local hero, who displayed exemplary courage during the recent Pahalgam incident. He was honoured with a cheque of appreciation by the department and also recognized as the Brand Ambassador for Sanitation during this year’s Yatra.

The Minister also took stock of several digital and eco-friendly initiatives including introduction of QR code-based feedback systems at toilet blocks for instant grievance redressal and a sanitation feedback kiosk for the yatris. Other initiatives included installation of Water ATMs to reduce single-use plastic bottles, distribution of eco-friendly cloth bag kits, enhanced toilet and bathing facilities and dedicated sanitation areas for female pilgrims with female supervisors.

On the occasion, a Nukkad Natak promoting awareness on cleanliness and environmental responsibility was also staged and appreciated by all. Earlier,  the Minister inaugurated a state-of-the-art Waste Management Facility at Sarbal, Pahalgam. The utility has been set up to manage the growing volume of waste; estimated at 4 tonnes of dry waste and 7 tonnes of wet waste daily from the Nunwan Base Camp area.

The facility has been equipped with hydraulic bailing machines, automated vertical rammers (AVRs), dual shaft shredders, solid-liquid separators (SLGs) and compost beds for efficient segregation and processing. This initiative is a key step towards realizing the government’s vision of Zero Landfill and ensuring a Sustainable  Shri Amarnath ji Yatra.

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

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