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

RAMBAN: The Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner, Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary, organized an Integrated Watershed Management Programme at New Bus Stand, Ukhral, marking the arrival of the Watershed Yatra Campaign 2025 in district under WDC PMKSY 2.0.

The Yatra Vehicle was flagged in by District Development Council Chairperson Dr. Shamshad Shan in presence of MLA Arjun Singh Raju. ADDC Roshan Lal, Project Manager IWMP (ACP) Mohammad Ashfaq , DSEO Ganesh Kumar, Tehsildar Nasir Javed, BDO Shahid Saleem and other officials and civil society representatives were also present.

The campaign aims to enhance water conservation, promote sustainable land management and empower local communities through effective watershed development strategies. Addressing the gathering, the DDC Chairperson   emphasised the importance of integrated watershed management in improving soil moisture, enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring sustainable livelihoods for rural communities.

The MLA Ramban lauded the initiative, highlighting that watershed development is crucial for tackling water scarcity and mitigating environmental challenges in the region. Other speakers stressed the role of community participation in the successful implementation of watershed projects and urged local stakeholders to actively engage in the program.

Providing insights into WDC PMKSY 2.0, the Project Manager IWMP outlined the initiative’s focus on rainwater harvesting, afforestation, and soil conservation. He informed that seven panchayats of Block Ukhral have been included under the ongoing watershed plan, aiming to treat 3,300 hectares of land to improve ecological balance and water retention.

The event featured a range of awareness sessions, technical demonstrations, and interactive discussions to build the capacity of local communities in sustainable watershed practices. The main attractions of the Yatra included administered of pledge, Bhumi Pujan, Paani Ki Patshala, Shram Daan, Lok Arpan, Selfie point  Screening of informative videos, Plantation drives, Debate competition, Cultural programs, and Poetry recitations on the importance of watershed conservation. Various departments also set up information stalls to educate the public about government schemes related to water conservation and sustainable agriculture.

Later, the Chief Guest felicitated participants and contributors for their efforts in advancing watershed management and rural development. The Watershed Yatra Campaign 2025 is a significant step towards water security, ecological balance, and rural prosperity, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to holistic and sustainable development.

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