KATRA: In a proactive initiative aimed at further enriching the pilgrimage experience and enhancing overall footfall, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has invited suggestions from devotees across the country and abroad. The initiative has been launched as per the directions of the Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT) for encouraging pilgrims to share their valuable inputs on various aspects of the Yatra.

Devotees have been requested to share their suggestions regarding various Yatra-related facilities, including infrastructure, cleanliness, accommodation, safety and security, transportation, crowd management and other essential services so that the pilgrimage experience can be made more seamless, convenient and spiritually fulfilling. In addition, devotees have also been invited to offer their valuable inputs on measures that could help enhance the overall footfall of pilgrims to the Holy Shrine.

The Shrine Board has urged pilgrims to submit their suggestions through the official website www.maavaishnodevi.org, to facilitate systematic review and timely implementation of the suggestions. In addition, devotees visiting the Holy Shrine can also share their inputs through suggestion boxes placed at key locations along the Yatra track and at Katra.

Pilgrims have been encouraged to actively participate in this initiative so that the planning, management and overall conduct of the Holy Yatra can be further strengthened for the benefit of the millions of devotees who visit the Shrine every year.

Meanwhile, as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen traditional religious practices in the region, the Shrine Board will also organize a Free Training Programme for Pujaris of various temples located in the region. The programme is scheduled to commence from the last week of February with an aim to enhance the skills of Pujaris in the proper conduct of religious rituals and ceremonies, besides, preservation of traditional practices (Karam Kand) and cultural values.

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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