SRINAGAR: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, currently on a four-day study visit to Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, today called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at Dachigam National Park here.

The Committee, chaired by Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor, briefed the Chief Minister about the objectives of its visit and its engagements across Jammu and Kashmir. The 13-member Committee is undertaking the study tour to review strategic border security, foreign policy-related issues and the overall situation in frontier regions.

The Committee, which had earlier visited Jammu, arrived in Srinagar today as part of its programme to gain first-hand insights into border management, security preparedness and developmental issues in border areas.

Welcoming the members, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah appreciated the Committee’s visit to the region and underscored the importance of sustained engagement by Parliamentary Committees in understanding the aspirations, challenges and developmental needs of Jammu & Kashmir. He said such interactions provide an opportunity for informed policy discussions and contribute to strengthening governance and institutional coordination.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the significance of ensuring balanced development in border areas, with a focus on improving infrastructure, connectivity, public services and livelihood opportunities for the people living in these regions.

The members of the Committee exchanged views with the Chief Minister on matters relating to border management, regional development and issues of national importance connected with India’s external affairs.

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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