KATHUA: A public hearing for the proposed Standalone Clinker Grinding Unit, with a cement production capacity of 6.0 Million TPA (2 x 3 Million TPA), was conducted today at Nuh Barnoti, Kathua. The event was organized by the Jammu & Kashmir Pollution Control Committee (J&KPCC), Jammu, as part of the statutory process for obtaining Environmental Clearance under the EIA Notification, 2006, issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), Government of India.

The proposed unit is planned to be set up at villages Merth and Nagrota in Tehsil and District Kathua. The hearing was supervised by senior officials from J&KPCC, the office of the Additional Deputy Commissioner Kathua and Divisional Officer, Pollution Control Committee Kathua. The session witnessed active participation from local residents, public representatives, environmental stakeholders and community members, who raised pertinent queries and concerns related to the project’s environmental and social impact.

During the hearing, the project’s Environmental Consultant presented the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report, detailing the findings of baseline environmental studies and proposed mitigation measures concerning air and water quality, noise levels, ecological aspects and safety during the construction and operational phases of the project.

To ensure transparency and adherence to regulatory norms, the entire proceedings were videographed and voice recorded. All relevant documentation and feedback from stakeholders will be compiled and submitted to MoEF&CC for further examination and processing of the Environmental Clearance. The public hearing is a key step in promoting participatory environmental governance and reflects the Government’s commitment to sustainable development and responsible industrial growth in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

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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