GANDERBAL: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore today chaired a joint meeting with officers and representatives of various service providers at Sonamarg to finalize the rates for key services to be provided to pilgrims during the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY-2026) via the Baltal route. The meeting focused on ensuring fair pricing, quality service delivery and better facilities for the Yatris during the annual pilgrimage.

During the meeting, a detailed discussion was held regarding fixation of rates for services including ponies, dandies, palkis and tents. The DC emphasized the need to prevent overcharging and directed all stakeholders to strictly adhere to the approved rates. The DC also underscored the importance of maintaining quality standards for tents and directed that every tent must be equipped with fire extinguishers to ensure safety of the pilgrims.

Representatives of various service groups participated in the meeting and assured full cooperation for the smooth and successful conduct of SANJY-2026. The DC reiterated that the district administration would put in place necessary mechanisms to ensure compliance with approved rates, while facilitating a safe, comfortable, and hassle-free pilgrimage experience for devotees, alongside ensuring proper support and facilitation for various service providers.

The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal; Chief Executive Officer, Sonamarg Development Authority; Divisional Forest Officer, Sindh Forest Division; Sub-Divisional Magistrate Kangan; Sub-Divisional Police Officer Kangan, other district and sectoral officers as well as representatives of various service providers. 

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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