JAMMU: Secretary, Transport Department, Avny Lavasa today visited Institute of Driving Training and Research (IDTR) located at Kot Bhalwal here and held detailed assessment of ongoing works. The visit was part of department’s focused efforts to expedite the development of critical transport infrastructure in the Union Territory.

The Secretary was accompanied by Transport Commissioner, Vishesh Paul Mahajan; Additional Transport Commissioner, Anju Gupta; Superintendent Engineer, PW (R&B) Jammu, Additional Secretary, Transport, Regional Transport Officer (RTO), Jammu; Executive Engineers PWD & Mechanical and Assistant Engineers PWD and Mechanical Departments.

At the outset of the visit, Transport Commissioner, presented a detailed overview of the IDTR project. He informed the Secretary about components of the institute like Administrative Block, Hostel Block, various driving test tracks, and other associated infrastructure being developed to facilitate professional driver training and research.

During the inspection, Secretary assessed the progress of civil works and examined key training facilities such as driving simulators, classrooms, laboratories and other equipment essential for modern driver education. She also held on-site deliberations regarding coordination, quality control and future operational planning of the IDTR.

Expressing concern over delays in the completion of critical infrastructure, the Secretary issued firm instructions to the Executive Engineers, PWD, Mechanical and Electrical to ensure timely execution of all pending works. She emphasized the importance of adhering to the stipulated timelines and directed that the balance works must be completed within next 15 days.

Avny Lavasa also reiterated the Transport Department’s commitment to developing state-of-the-art training and testing facilities in J&K to enhance road safety, reduce accidents and professionalize driver training standards.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇