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KISHTWAR: The revered Shree Machail Mata Yatra 2024, which officially commenced on July 25, 2024, crossed the 50 thousand mark with today's darshan performed by 8,535 pilgrims at the Holy Shree Chandi Mata Mandir of Machail Paddar. This annual Yatra is one of the most significant pilgrimages in the Jammu Division, second only to the Katra Mata Vaishno Yatra.

The popularity of Shree Machail Yatra has soared in recent years, with over 2 lakh pilgrims visiting last year alone. Pilgrims along with the holy mace (Chhari) procession will proceed from Jammu on August 17 towards Darbar following traditional path and transits. The weather at Machail Bhawan remains clear, ensuring a smooth experience for the devotees.

The Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar in collaboration with the district administration Kishtwar, spearheaded by Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Dr. Devansh Yadav and local administration, is diligently working to ensure comprehensive arrangements for the Yatris this year. Langars by devotees near Bhawan Machail and enroute are offering meals to the pilgrims.

Additionally, lodging facilities at the Yatri Bhawan Gulabgarh, Sapphire Guest House by district administration Kishtwar, along with various tent accommodations and Yatri Sarai near Chandi Mata Bhawan, Machail, are available to ensure comfort for the visitors. With the footfall expected to exceed 300,000 this year, Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Dr. Devansh Yadav has appealed Yatris to follow guidelines.

These facilities provided to Yatris include enhancements to roads, water supply, footpaths, sanitation, security, chopper services, and online registration through the website to ensure a safe and pleasant journey for the pilgrims. The addition of a road up to Chashoti on the Gulabgarh to Machail axis has reduced the trekking distance to 3-4 hours. New bridges and repairs to existing infrastructure aim to provide a safe and hassle-free experience for Yatris amid challenging geography.

Dr. Devansh Yadav urged the pilgrims to visit the official Machail Yatra website at https://shrimachailmatayatra.com for online registration and updated information regarding the Yatra, including weather conditions, routes and other facilities. This resource is designed to help pilgrims stay informed and address any queries they may have. Yatris are advised to carry their Aadhar cards and review the guidelines on the website. The administration remains committed to ensuring a seamless and spiritually fulfilling experience for all devotees participating in the Shree Machail Yatra this year.

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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