JAMMU: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, today paid obeisance at the revered Dev Sathan Balli on the eve of the annual religious congregation and prayed for peace, harmony and prosperity of the people of the region.

Following the religious ceremony, the Minister addressed a huge public gathering at Kharah Balli, where he held detailed interaction with the local residents, religious leaders and representatives of various sections of society. He reiterated that the Omar Abdullah–led government is firmly committed towards ensuring inclusive, equitable and people-centric development, particularly in border and rural areas that have remained vulnerable and underserved for decades.

The Minister was accompanied by MLA Chanapora, Mushtaq Guru besides senior civil and police officers during the visit. The Minister also conducted an on-the-spot inspection of the playfield at Balli, which is currently under construction. Stressing the importance of sports for youth empowerment and positive engagement, he directed the concerned departments to expedite the work and ensure that the facility is completed at the earliest with proper quality standards.

Giving a major boost to development in the area, the Minister announced ₹30 lakh from his Constituency Development Fund (CDF) for undertaking various development works in Block Kharah Balli. These works will include improvement of local infrastructure, strengthening of civic amenities and creation of community-friendly facilities to enhance the quality of life of the people.

Highlighting the strategic importance of Chhamb, Satish Sharma said the area has witnessed several wars in the past and continues to face challenges due to cross-border shelling and firing". He acknowledged the resilience and sacrifices of the people living in the border belt and assured them that the government is fully sensitive to their concerns and is working towards improving the infrastructure, safety measures, connectivity and basic services in such vulnerable areas.

The Minister underlined that the present government is guided by the politics of development, which, he said, will rise above all other political ideologies. “Sustainable development, peace and prosperity of the people will always remain our foremost priority. Through focused governance and transparent implementation of schemes, we aim to bring lasting change to every region, especially border and rural belts,” he said.

Satish Sharma also appreciated the active participation of the local people in the religious congregation and public interaction programme. He assured them that their genuine grievances and developmental aspirations would be addressed on priority.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇