JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today visited the Warehouse, Nehru Market and Shiv Market in Jammu to undertake an on-ground assessment of shops that were damaged in recent fire incidents.    

During the visit, the Lieutenant Governor interacted with affected shopkeepers and members of the trade and business community. He listened to their concerns, and reviewed the extent of losses along with senior officials. 

The Lieutenant Governor announced Rs. 1 lakh in immediate relief from the Red Cross for each shopkeeper affected at Warehouse, Nehru Market, and Shiv Market. Immediate financial assistance of Rs. 11 lakhs has been given to affected shopkeepers at the Warehouse along with Rs. 27 lakhs for affected shopkeepers at Shiv Market. 

“I have no relief funds at my disposal, but as the President of the Red Cross Society, I requested them to provide some assistance through the Red Cross. They have arranged cheques of Rs. 1 lakh each, which is the maximum support they can offer as per the rule.

I understand that this amount is very small compared to the losses you have endured, but I hope it provides at least some help during this difficult time. In the meantime, Divisional Commissioner Jammu and Deputy Commissioner Jammu are making every effort to ensure that you receive your insurance claims as soon as possible,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor directed the officials to expedite the damage assessment process and ensure prompt relief measures are extended to all those affected. He also emphasized the need to review and strengthen fire safety protocols across major commercial hubs to prevent such unfortunate incidents in the future.

“The entire UT administration stands with you. I assure the business community of all possible support from the Administration to help you rebuild your business at the earliest,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor has already formed an inquiry committee, comprising the Inspector General, Jammu, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, to ascertain the cause and circumstances of the fire incident at the Warehouse, Nehru Market. The committee is directed to probe any lapses or negligence, fix responsibility, and submit its report within 15 days.

The Lieutenant Governor stated that the inquiry will be completely impartial, and accountability will be fixed. He said if there was any negligence, strict action will be taken.

The Lieutenant Governor was accompanied by Shri Nalin Prabhat, DGP; Shri Govind Jaiswal, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Shri Vikas Kundal, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; Shri Shridhar Patil, DIG, JSK Range; Shri Minga Sherpa, Deputy Commissioner Jammu; Ms. Aayushi Sudan, Municipal Commissioner Jammu; Shri Vidhu Shekhar, Vice Chairman JDA and other senior officials.

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