KULGAM: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today visited the hailstorm affected villages of Kulgam district to assess the extent of damage and review ongoing response measures on the ground.

During the visit, the Minister conducted an on-spot appraisal of losses to agricultural crops, horticulture orchards, residential structures, and public infrastructure in various villages like D.H Pora, Nihama, Manzgam, Bathipora, Ladgoo Rambhama, Pombay and other areas.

Interacting directly with affected families, farmers, and local representatives, she assured them that the Government stands firmly with the people during this difficult time and that timely assistance will be ensured.

“District Administration has been asked to conduct detailed assessment of losses accurately, facilitate timely relief under existing government norms and extend all possible assistance to affected orchardists and farmers without delay”, Sakeena assured the affected farmers.

The Minister stated that the Government is committed to providing immediate relief as well as long-term support to mitigate the impact of natural calamities on farmers and rural livelihoods. “Our Government completely stands with the farming community in this difficult time. We will ensure all losses are compensated fairly,” she stated.

The Minister also instructed the accompanying officers of various stakeholder departments to deploy field teams for rapid surveys and ensure that eligible beneficiaries receive compensation strictly as per government norms. “Loss reports must be compiled transparently and submitted within a fixed timeframe to facilitate swift assistance for affected families”, she maintained.

The Minister also directed the stakeholder departments to keep officers and officials on ground and maintain close liaison with local representatives and ensure prompt relief measures across all affected villages

While interacting with the Minister, the locals appreciated the Minister’s visit and expressed hope that timely intervention by the Government will ensure swift and timely assistance to recover from the losses incurred by this devastating hailstorm.

Senior officers of district administration, including SDM Noorabad, Chief Agriculture Officer, Chief Horticulture Officer, other concerned officers and large number of locals also accompanied the Minister during the visit.

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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