• Centrally protected monuments of national importance to be made accessible for eco-tourism fillip

SHOPIAN: The historic Aliabad Sarai and Heerpora Sarai (resting places of Mughal Emperors) along Mughal Road in district Shopian are all set to regain their former glory in accordance with the initiative by the District Development Commissioner (DDC) and commitment of Archeological Survey of India (ASI) to restore and protect these centrally protected monuments.

These sarais, built during the Mughal era, have been under the Archaeological Survey of India's (ASI) protection since 1958 since they were transferred by the Government. However, due to rampant grazing in the premises, the monument at Aliabad has suffered damages which need to be restored. The restoration project aims to preserve the Mughal architecture of these monuments of national importance, using materials that are in sync with the original style, apprised AS'Is officers.

Further, to make Aliabad Sarai accessible to tourists, the wildlife department will develop an environmentally friendly approach path, a move, expected to give a boost to eco-tourism in the area, said DDC while chairing a meeting of top officers of district administration, ASI, Wildlife and Forest Departments.

It was also decided that restoration of Heeepora Sarai shall be initiated to bring back its original grandeur, using traditional Mughal architecture materials by the ASI.  The DDC emphasized the importance of regaining the sheen of these historical monuments, which will not only preserve the heritage but also promote eco tourism in the region, keeping in view its location in wildlife sanctuary.

The administration has also decided to recommend Sukh Sarai to the Government for its take-over by ASI for restoration and preservation. DDC said an environmentally-friendly approach path, without any disturbance to the natural surroundings and eco-tourism promotion by showcasing the rich past of Shopian must be ensured. ADDC, Shopian, Dr.Nasir Ahmad Lone; ADC, Dr Zakir Hussain Faaz; ACR, DFO, DIO, officers of ASI, Wildlife Department and others attended the 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). 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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