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RAMBAN: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, today inaugurated the City Forest Park at Batote, Ramban marking a significant step towards strengthening the green infrastructure and promoting eco-tourism in the region.

He was accompanied by Legislators Sajjad Shaheen and Arjun Singh Raju, Chief Conservator of Forests, Jammu,  Dr. V. Senthil Kumar, Conservator of Forests, Chenab Circle, Dr. A. D. Singh and other officers from the forest department.

Developed by the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department, the City Forest Park has been established over an area of 12 hectares at an estimated cost of ā‚¹62 lakh. The initiative is aimed at creating a vibrant recreational green space for both the residents and the visitors, while simultaneously advancing ecological conservation and fostering environmental awareness.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister underscored the growing importance of urban forest spaces in improving the environmental quality and public well-being. He emphasized that such initiatives not only encourage the community participation in conservation efforts but also serve as catalyst for nature-based tourism. Highlighting the broader environmental impact, he noted that projects like the City Forest Park contribute meaningfully to climate resilience while offering accessible, healthy recreational avenues for the public.

The park has been thoughtfully designed with eco-friendly amenities to enhance the visitor experience while maintaining sustainability. Key features included scenic viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, a 50-metre walking trail for nature enthusiasts, a wooden bridge adding both functionality and aesthetic appeal and soil and moisture conservation measures such as Dry Rubble Stone Masonry (DRSM).

Outlining the future plans, the Minister announced several proposed enhancements to further enrich the park. These included the construction of an additional wooden bridge, development of a dedicated children’s park, establishment of a thematic Nagar Van, creation of a selfie point to attract younger visitors and addition of more viewpoints to elevate the overall visitor experience.

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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