JAMMU: Pilgrims from the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, who participated in the Somnath Swabhiman Yatra–2026 under the theme "Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat," returned safely to Jammu Tawi Railway Station today, marking the successful conclusion of the six-day pilgrimage to Gujarat.

Principal Secretary to the Government, Culture Department, Brij Mohan Sharma, accompanied by Secretary, Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL), Harvinder Kour, received the pilgrims at Jammu Tawi Railway Station and welcomed them on the successful completion of the pilgrimage.

The yatra, organised by the Department of Culture, Government of Jammu & Kashmir in collaboration with JKAACL, enabled the pilgrims to visit the Shree Somnath Mahadev Temple and several other religious, historical and cultural sites across Gujarat.

During the pilgrimage, the participants offered prayers for peace, harmony, prosperity, national unity and the well-being of the people of Jammu & Kashmir and the nation.

The Special Train carrying the yatris arrived safely at Jammu Tawi Railway Station from Sabarmati Railway Station, Ahmedabad concluding the pilgrimage peacefully.

Principal Secretary, Culture, Brij Mohan Sharma thanked  Government of India, Government of Gujarat besides, Shree Somnath Trust, District Administration, Gir Somnath, Indian Railways and all departments, officials, volunteers and coordinating agencies for their support and arrangements that ensured the safety, security and comfort of the pilgrims throughout the yatra.

The pilgrims expressed happiness and satisfaction on their safe return and described the Somnath Swabhiman Yatra–2026 as a spiritually enriching experience. They appreciated the hospitality extended by the Government and people of Gujarat and said the pilgrimage strengthened the ideals of "Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat" by fostering cultural understanding, emotional integration and national unity.

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 👇