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KATHUA: Kathua Forest Division has intensified enforcement measures across vulnerable routes and transit points as part of the ongoing drive to curb illegal smuggling of forest produce outside the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

In continuation of this anti-smuggling campaign, the enforcement team of Range Officer APCP Lakhanpur seized a truck bearing registration number JK02CG-8757 transporting illicit firewood towards Punjab this afternoon.

 Meanwhile, in view of increasing attempts of smuggling of firewood, timber, khairwood and other forest produce, the Forest Department has further strengthened its patrolling and naka checking operations during both day and night hours.

During the past few days, the department has achieved significant success in its anti-smuggling drive. On May 10, 2026, five trucks carrying illicit firewood were seized by the Forest Department.

Similarly, two trucks loaded with illicit firewood were seized on May 8, while one truck was seized on May 7 and another vehicle was intercepted on May 13 for attempting to transport illicit forest produce towards Punjab.

The department has reiterated that strict action shall continue against all individuals involved in illegal felling, transportation and smuggling of forest produce. It emphasized that the Forest Department remains fully committed to safeguarding forest resources and ensuring strict enforcement of forest laws in the region.

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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