KUPWARA: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, today visited Handwara Fruit Mandi and reviewed its overall functioning, infrastructure and facilities being provided to fruit growers, traders and other stakeholders associated with the horticulture trade. Member Parliament Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan and MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed Ahmad accompanied the Minister during the visit.

The Minister held a detailed interaction with representatives of fruit growers, traders and the Mandi Association and listened to their concerns and suggestions regarding the smooth functioning of the mandi. The stakeholders apprised the Minister of various issues pertaining to basic infrastructure, facilities, marketing arrangements, transportation and other requirements aimed at facilitating hassle-free trade and ensuring better returns to growers.

While addressing the gathering, Javid Dar sought constructive suggestions from the stakeholders for further improving the functioning of the mandi and strengthening the existing marketing mechanism. He stressed the importance of developing efficient, transparent and grower-friendly market infrastructure to ensure that farmers and fruit growers receive better facilities and an enabling environment for the marketing of their produce.

The Minister assured the representatives that all genuine demands and issues highlighted during the interaction would be examined and addressed on priority, in coordination with the concerned officers. He directed the officers to maintain close coordination with the mandi associations and remain responsive to the genuine requirements of growers and traders.

Javid Dar emphasized that strengthening horticulture infrastructure and streamlining the marketing system is essential for safeguarding the interests of fruit growers, improving post-harvest management and giving further impetus to the horticulture economy of Jammu and Kashmir.

Director Horticulture Marketing & Planning Kashmir, Director Horticulture Kashmir, Director Agriculture Kashmir and Managing Director JKHPMC, besides senior officers and representatives of fruit growers and traders’ associations, were present on the occasion.

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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