JAMMU: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), Transport, Information Technology & Science and Technology and ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma, today conducted a comprehensive visit to the Bhagwati Nagar Base Camp, Jammu, to oversee the arrangements for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025.

During his visit, the Minister conducted a thorough inspection of the entire base camp infrastructure and facilities, including electricity , water supply , accommodation and health care facilities for the pilgrims. He inspected the four accommodation halls, ensuring that basic amenities such as clean drinking water, air conditioners and fans have been properly installed and are functional. The Minister also visited the Langar Hall and appreciated the selfless services rendered by the Langar staff.

Accompanied by the Director FCS & CA, Regional Transport Officer (RTO), Jammu and General Manager of J&K Road Transport Corporation (RTC) and enforcement team of Transport Department, Sharma visited the RTC counter and issued several directions to streamline transport arrangements for the Yatra. These included strict monitoring of traffic violations by the vehicles participating in the Yatra, verification of fitness certificates and driving licenses of all drivers and transport vehicles arriving from outside the UT and timely issuance of fitness certificates to all RTC buses and other vehicles deployed for Yatra duty and deployment of officers and officials of Transport Department at Bhagwati Nagar Base Camp.

 The Minister appreciated the Transport Commissioner, J&K, and Regional Transport Officer, Jammu, for installation of hoardings displaying the notified fare structure for various categories of vehicles. These hoardings have been placed at Bhagwati Nagar Base Camp, Jammu Airport, Railway Station, Taxi Stand, General Bus Stand, and Ban Toll Plaza to guide the visiting pilgrims.

The Minister also inspected the designated parking space at the base camp, which has a capacity to accommodate 1,500 vehicles. The visit concluded with a high-level  meeting in the conference hall, where a threadbare discussion was held with the officers regarding the arrangements.  During the meeting, the Minister asked  the RTC to ensure fitness of all bus drivers and associated staff before their deployment, utilisation of only fit and latest-model buses for ferrying the yatris, installation of CCTV cameras in all buses to ensure safety and surveillance.He also called for coordinated efforts for conducting a successful Yatra.

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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