KISHTWAR: The 349th annual Urs of Hazrat Shah Asrar-ud-Din (RHA) was observed with religious fervour and devotion here today, drawing devotees from across the District and other parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Shah Asrar-ud-Din, one of Kishtwar's most venerated Sufi Saints, symbolizes the area's shared cultural heritage and interfaith harmony. Every year, thousands from diverse backgrounds and regions gather at his shrine in Kishtwar to pay homage and seek blessings.

The district administration, in collaboration with the Auqaf Islamia Kishtwar made seamless arrangements for the convenience of devotees. A significant number of devotees visited the shrine, facilitated by adequate provision of amenities made available by the district administration. Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Kumar Shavan, along with civil and police officials including Executive Officer Auqaf Islamia Firdoos Bawani inspected the shrine’s arrangements. 

The DC instructed all relevant departments to provide necessary facilities, including uninterrupted power, safe drinking water, essential supplies, security, transport, and sanitation for devotees. Additionally, a control room was set up by the district administration, in coordination with the Police Department and District Information Centre, to assist pilgrims during the Urs. A help desk was also set up by the District Administration for the convenience of the pilgrims. Besides, Duty Magistrates were deployed at various locations and at the venue to ensure the hassle free, smooth and safe commemoration of the Urs.

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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