JAMMU: In a significant development for the people of the Mendhar sector in Poonch district, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has accorded approval to a new subsidized helicopter route connecting Jammu-Poonch-Mendhar with an additional option of Jammu-Mendhar-Jammu route.

An official communication from the MHA states, "The proposal of the UT of J&K to operate the Subsidized Helicopter services on new route of Jammu-Poonch-Mendhar with additional option of Jammu-Mendhar-Jammu has been examined in consultation with IFD and this Department has no objection for aforesaid route."

The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has been advised to claim the subsidy from the MHA within the approved budget allocation. This decision follows a proposal submitted by Secretary, Civil Aviation Department, J&K, Mohammad Aijaz Asad for connecting remote area of Mendhar directly with the winter capital Jammu.

In a statement, Aijaz Asad stated that the subsidized helicopter service in Mendhar sector is aimed at enhancing connectivity in remote areas of the region, particularly those facing accessibility challenges. He emphasized that this development will significantly benefit commuters, especially those residing in remote areas like Poonch and Mendhar. This will also help in emergency evacuation of the patients as and when required. “Improved air connectivity will contribute to better infrastructure and enhanced travel convenience for residents in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.

The Secretary said that the addition of this new route will significantly enhance connectivity in the remote Mendhar sector, especially during the challenging winter months. Aijaz Asad stated that Helicopter Service shall help connecting remote and inaccessible areas, providing quick and efficient transportation for the people of Mendhar. The Service is especially useful for the Mendhar sector having challenging terrains thereby improve medical emergency access. In future this will also have the potential to boost border tourism.

It's worth noting that subsidized helicopter services are already operational in several parts of the region, including Kishtwar-Sounder-Navapachi-Ishan-Kishtwar, Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch-Jammu, Jammu-Doda-Kishtwar-Jammu, Bandipora-Kanzalwan- Dawar-Niri-Bandipora, and Kupwara-Machil-Tangdhar-Keran-Kupwara.

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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