The Survival Fight of JK Monitor: For 16 years, JK Monitor has chronicled Jammu and Kashmir with integrity. Since 2010, I have steered its newsroom alongside our visionary Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan (IIT Kharagpur alumnus, University of Maryland Ph.D.). His tragic demise in October 2026 left a severe financial and operational vacuum. Without urgent support, our 24/7 news portal risks permanently shutting down after November 2026, remaining only as a static digital archive. We appeal to well-wishers to extend a helping hand to keep our active newsroom alive. Support Us: WhatsApp: +91-9906103001 | Email: journalistajmerwani@gmail.com
  • One godown sealed; another asked to remain closed over deficiencies

KATHUA: District Magistrate Rajesh Sharma, accompanied by SSP, today conducted an extensive inspection of firecracker godowns and sale points at different locations across Kathua town to assess compliance with prescribed safety norms, licensing conditions and regulatory provisions governing the storage and sale of firecrackers ahead of Diwali.

During the inspection, the team examined the validity of licences,  storage arrangements and adherence to mandatory safety requirements. A Godwon was sealed after its licence was found to have expired, while another was directed to remain closed in view of shortcomings observed during the inspection. The concerned establishments were directed to meet prescribed requirements before resuming operations.

The inspection was conducted in the backdrop of the prohibitery order issued by the District Magistrate under Section 163 of BNSS, regulating the storage and sale of firecrackers during Diwali. The order stipulates that only licensed dealers can operate from designated locations and that only Green Crackers are permitted for sale, while prohibiting high-noise and other banned firecrackers. ADC Sachin Jammwal, ASP Sunil Kesar, Tehsildar VikramKumar, Dy SP HQ Ravinder Singh and other concerned officials were also present.

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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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