POONCH: The Health Department Poonch on Friday conducted a comprehensive vaccination drive for pilgrims scheduled to travel to Makkah and Madinah, Saudi Arabia to perform Haj. Providing details, Dr Parvaiz Ahmed Khan, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Poonch, said that a total of 119 pilgrims from the district are proceeding for Haj this year.

Of these, 66 belong to Haveli Poonch, 39 from Mendhar and 14 from Surankote. Among the pilgrims, 81 are males and 38 females, while 15 pilgrims are above the age of 65 years. Dr Khan said the vaccination process was carried out smoothly at multiple locations, including the Conference Hall of the CMO Office Poonch, Conference Hall BMO Mendhar and Conference Hall BMO Surankote, to ensure better facilities and convenience for the pilgrims.

During the vaccination drive, each pilgrim underwent an individual medical check-up, which included NCD screening and other relevant medical tests. The Chief Medical Officer Poonch also personally interacted with the pilgrims at Poonch and sensitized them about the Haj journey, use of first-aid kits and precautions related to climatic changes while travelling from India to Saudi Arabia. Health officials and medical staff were present during the drive to ensure effective coordination and hassle-free services for the pilgrims.

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