MENDHAR: In a significant push to strengthen the public infrastructure in border areas, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects in the Mendhar constituency. These initiatives aim to enhance the essential services, improve connectivity and promote socio-economic development in the area.

The Minister inaugurated a newly constructed Food Store Building at Mendhar, developed under the FCS and CA sector. Built with an expenditure of Rs. 151.80 lakh, the facility is expected to significantly strengthen the public distribution system by improving the storage capacity and ensuring better availability of essential commodities for the local population.

In a significant move to promote education and empowerment among young women, the Minister inaugurated a 100-bedded Girls Hostel (G+1) at Mendhar. Constructed under the SAMAGRA (PAB) 2022–23 programme at a cost of Rs. 259 lakh, the hostel aims to provide safe and improved residential facilities for girl students.

Furthering infrastructure development, the Minister laid foundation stone for a 300-metre RCC motorable bridge and culvert on the Jugal–Salwah road, constructed at an estimated cost of Rs. 120 lakh. This project is poised to enhance the accessibility, facilitate smoother transportation and stimulate economic growth in the surrounding areas.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that these projects reflect the government’s commitment towards improving the essential infrastructure and ensuring better facilities for the people, particularly in far-flung and border areas. ā€œOur government is committed to bridge the divide between rural and urban areas so as to achieve balanced and equitable development across the region,ā€ he said.

The Minister said that sustained efforts are being made to bridge the developmental gaps and improve infrastructure across all sectors in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in far found and underserved areas. He highlighted that investments in infrastructure, education and connectivity are crucial for accelerating growth and improving the overall quality of life.

During the visit, the Minister also inspected and reviewed the progress of several ongoing projects, including Synthetic Athletic Track at Bhatidhar, 50 MVA, 132/33 KV Grid Station at Kottan, Mendhar and Polyhouses with High-Density Plantation under HADP. He emphasized the importance of timely completion of these projects to ensure that their benefits reach the people without delay.

Among others the event was attended by Ashok Kumar  Sharma, Deputy Commissioner Poonch; Manoj Gupta, Chief Engineer I&FC Jammu; Hanief Choudhary, Chief Engineer Jal Shakti Jammu; Gul Sayed, Director Horticulture Jammu; Arshad Hussain Reshi, Chief Engineer (Distribution) JPDCL and Ravi Kant, Chief Engineer (Projects) JPDCL besides other district and departmental officials.

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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