JAMMU: Minister for FCS&CA, IT, Youth Services and Sports, Transport, Science and Technology, Satish  Sharma, today assured that all genuine issues raised by the Kashmir Tourist Drivers Coordination Committee will be addressed within shortest possible time. The assurance was given by the Minister during a detailed meeting held here today.

The meeting was attended by MLA M Y Tarigami and President CITU besides Secretary Transport,  Avny Lavasa and senior officers of the Transport Department. Representatives of the Kashmir Tourist Drivers Coordination Committee also participated  in the deliberations.

During the meeting, the Coordination Committee presented a comprehensive memorandum highlighting several pressing issues being faced by the tourist taxi operators in Kashmir region. A key demand raised was the introduction of a uniform colour-coding system for tourist taxis, on the pattern followed in states such as Delhi, Maharashtra and others.

The Committee pointed out that a standardized colour scheme would help the tourists and passengers easily identify the authorised vehicles, enhance safety and security, curb the menace of unauthorised and fake taxis. It will also bring greater regulation, transparency and professionalism in the sector, added the Committee.

The Committee further emphasized that the tourist taxi sector plays a vital role in supporting tourism, employment and local livelihoods in Kashmir. Therefore, it requires a well-regulated and supportive policy framework to function efficiently and sustainably.

The Minister gave a patient hearing to all the issues raised and assured the delegation that the government is sensitive to the concerns of tourist drivers. He stated that since some of the demands involve policy-level decisions, the Transport Department will initiate immediate consultations and necessary procedures to resolve the issues within a fortnight.

Satish Sharma directed the officers to examine the proposals in a time-bound manner and maintain close coordination with stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of decisions.

Secretary CITU, J&K, Abdul Rashid Pandit along with Mohd Younis Chairman KTC and Mudassar Ahmad, President of the Kashmir Tourist Drivers Coordination Committee respectively, represented the association in the meeting. They expressed satisfaction over the positive response from the Minister.

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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