SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir today joined the rest of the nation in commemorating the National Panchayati Raj Day (NPRD) 2025 with unprecedented enthusiasm and overwhelming public participation. More than one lakh people from across 4,291 Gram Panchayats took part in the vibrant programmes held at the Panchayat, Block and District level, reaffirming the Union Territory’s commitment to grassroots democracy and community driven development.

The national highlight was a historic event at Lohna Uttar Gram Panchayat in Bihar’s Madhubani district, presided over by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. Addressing the nation, the Prime Minister called for a minute of silence in memory of the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, offering prayers and condolences to the bereaved families.

On the occasion, the Prime Minister also presented the National Panchayat Awards, recognizing best-performing Panchayats from across the country for their excellence in governance and development. The NPRD 2025 observance also commemorated the continued legacy of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, which institutionalized Panchayati Raj in India and empowered local self-governance at the village level.

In Jammu and Kashmir, the celebrations focused on promoting transparency, accountability and citizen participation. Gram Sabhas were held across the UT, with a special focus on Water Management & Conservation, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) and awareness campaigns under Nasha Mukt Bharat to address drug addiction.

In a strong show of unity, districts across the UT passed unanimous resolutions at District, Block and Panchayat level condemning the heinous and cowardly terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The resolutions reflected the collective grief, outrage and unwavering resolve of the people to stand against terrorism. A live telecast of the Prime Minister’s address was arranged in Gram Panchayats across Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring wide viewership and participation.

Director, Panchayati Raj, J&K, Sham Lal, lauded the efforts of all districts in organizing special Gram Sabhas and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment towards strengthening grassroots democracy. ā€œWe are committed to the development of all Panchayats and will ensure that the benefits of democracy reach every corner,ā€ he asserted. On the National Panchayati Raj Day, PM Modi presented National Panchayat Awards, recognizing and incentivizing best-performing Panchayats.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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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