KATHUA: The District Administration Kathua, headed by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Rakesh Minhas, convened a pre-budget consultation meeting today with the Members of Legislative Assembly representing different assembly constituencies of the district. The meeting was held in the VC Room of the DC Office Complex, with MLAs participating both in person and virtually.

Present at the meeting were MLA Kathua Dr. Bharat Bhushan, MLA Jasrota Rajiv Jasrotia, MLA Hiranagar Vijay Sharma, and MLA Billawar Satish Sharma, while MLA Bani Rameshwar Singh joined virtually.

During the consultation, the MLAs presented their developmental priorities. The MLA Kathua emphasized the need for an indoor stadium and installation of hand pumps to augment water availability, while MLA Jasrota advocated for the establishment of a Degree College in his constituency. MLA Billawar pushed for four-laning of Dhar Road and called for the construction of a permanent building for the Government Degree College along with improved facilities for Yatris. MLA Bani raised demands for a bridge over Bhini Nallah, better road and mobile connectivity, replacement of old electricity poles, and strengthening of medical staff. MLA Hiranagar Vijay Kumar sought revamping PHC Hiranagar and Mini Sectt. Complex for Hiranagar sub division etc.

DDC Chairman Mahan Singh also highlighted the need to extend road connectivity in uncovered areas. Earlier, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Rakesh Minhas emphasized the administration’s commitment to holistic development, announcing plans to revamp the iconic Kathua canal into a modern waterfront. The proposed Kathua Waterfront Project aims to enhance the canal’s ecological and aesthetic appeal while boosting local tourism and recreation. Besides, the administration intends to develop two Anganwadi centers as model educational facilities in each Assembly constituency, ensuring quality early childhood education and care.

Later, the DC, along with the elected MLAs, apprised the Chief Minister about the focused areas for the overall development of their respective constituencies. The deliberations mark a crucial step towards formulating a budget that addresses the core needs of Kathua district while fostering sustainable growth and development.

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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