SHOPIAN: On his maiden visit to Shopian, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forests, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, today reviewed development scenario of the district, besides interacting with several deputations at Circuit House, Shopian. The Minister also convened a series of meetings with representatives from diverse sections including MLAs, former MLAs, District Development Council members, local public and district/ sectoral officers.

The deputation of District Development Council members led by  Chairperson, Bilqees Jan, apprised the Minister of wide range of developmental issues concerning their area. The MLAs, DDC members, former MLAs and citizens apprised the Minister of various public welfare and development issues including construction of Shopian-Poonch tunnel, provision of quality water, electricity availability and tariff revision, forest rights act issues, youth related issues of employment, road, tribal welfare, education, tourism development and others.

The Minister listened to the public welfare and development issues patiently and assured action on all genuine issues. The Minister, on the occasion, appreciated the ongoing initiatives of the district administration. He assured the MLAs, District Council and the locals of government’s assistance in addressing the developmental demands and meeting their aspirations.

 The Minister emphasised on collective responsibility for alleviating the problems of weak and downtrodden sections of the society. He directed the DDC Shopian for initiating the process for establishment of Pahari Hostel in the district. He also instructed the revenue department for land allotment for construction of Eklavya Model Residential School in the district.

Addressing the gathering, he said that special focus is being laid on tribal development, completion of Jal Jeevan Mission this year and facilitating the Forest Rights entitlements smoothly. Later, District Development Commissioner, Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar, presented the department wise status of ongoing works, major projects in the district in a presentation besides highlighting achievements under various sectors.

MLA Zainapora, Showkat Hussain Ganie and MLA Shopian, Shabir Ahmad Kullay also highlighted issues before the Minister and sought his attention towards resolution of the same.

While directing for taking up all highlighted demands of public on topmost priority, the Minister stressed upon the officers for ensuring transparent, responsive and corruption free public delivery system. He also instructed them to work hard in their spheres of responsibility and achieve time bound results.

SSP Shopian, Anayat Ali, Director, Agriculture, Chaudhary Mohammad Iqbal, ADDC, Dr. Nasir Ahmad Lone, ACR Shakoor Dar and other district and sectoral officers were also present during the review meeting.

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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