KATHUA: Dr. Hari Dutt Shishu, Advisor, Airwan Mandir Tirathsthan, Kathua, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to MLA Kathua, Dr. Bharat Bhushan, for laying the foundation stone of the Temple Guest House at Airwan Mandir Tirathsthan today.

The Guest House, to be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 1.25 crore, will be a major facility for devotees and pilgrims visiting the historic shrine from different parts of Jammu & Kashmir and adjoining states.

Dr. Shishu highlighted that Airwan Tirathsthan has been emerging as a prominent spiritual and cultural destination. The other major attractions for tourists and devotees here include the Ganga Aarti on the bank of the sacred Sarovar, the annual Kissan Mela promoting local agriculture and handicrafts, and regular Inter-School Competitions focusing on culture, devotion, and moral education. These events draw thousands of visitors every year and showcase the rich heritage of the region.

Dr. Hari Dutt Shishu further said that it is for the first time ever in the history of this pilgrimage that our local representatives including MP and MLA are taking keen interest in the development of this shrine and funding liberally for the promotion of this historical shrine. The recent visit of MOS PMO Dr. Jitendra Singh in this shrine and spot announcement of a yoga center out of his CD funds is the testimony to this fact.

He also put forth the major demand for widening of the link road leading to the Tirathsthan, in view of the growing footfall of devotees and tourists. He urged the Hon’ble MLA and district administration to take up the project on priority to ensure smooth traffic movement and safety of pilgrims.

He further added that the Airwan Mandir Committee is committed to developing the Tirathsthan as a major pilgrimage center with modern amenities, while preserving its ancient sanctity and heritage.

Dr. Shishu also thanked the district administration, local residents, and donors for their continued support towards the development of the temple premises.

Those prominent participated in the programme included Ex. Chairman DDC Kathua Raghunandan Jasrotia, Ex Chairman MC Parole Anil Singh, ADC Kathua Sh. Surinder Sharma, Tehsildar Nagri Anna Jamwal, BFO Nagri Pardeep Singh, BJP District Secretary Ravinder Situ j, Mandal President Ravi Andotra and Mandal Secretary Parvesh Sharma and Panchas and Sarpanchas of adjoining panchayats.

The function concluded with prayers for peace and prosperity of the state.

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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