BUDGAM: To kick-start the implementation of the ‘Catch the Rain’ initiative in the district, a meeting was held today under the chairmanship of the District Development Commissioner (DDC) Budgam, Akshay Labroo, here. Meeting decided that 17 new major water harvesting structures/ tanks/springs shall be developed in the rural blocks of the district with one such water harvesting structure in each of the rural blocks to enhance water sources and tap the rain water to augment the overall water availability in the district.

DDC outlined the implementation strategy for these works which focus on water conservation through rainwater harvesting and related measures. He emphasized the need for constructing one large rainwater harvesting plant in each Block to ensure effective water conservation. He stressed the importance of timely completion of DPRs of all water harvesting plants while ensuring their long-term sustainability.

Officers were directed to ensure proper implementation and maintenance of the rainwater harvesting systems, and to resolve any field-level issues that may be causing delays. DDC also directed the Ex. Engineer PHE of both the divisions and Ex. Engineer Irrigation to ensure that the water harvesting structures so built are technically sound for its further use either for potable water or irrigation purposes.

It was decided that all the necessary paperwork, DPR formulation & site selection is completed by next week for its timely submission for sanctioning of the project. DDC directed concerned officers to complete the pending tasks without delay and continue their efforts to improve infrastructure and services in the rural areas of the district.

Besides CPO, ACD, Executive Engineer REW Budgam, all Block Development Officers (BDOs), Programme Officer IWMP with technical staff, representatives of Jal Shakti (PHE) Division Budgam/Chadoora, Irrigation Division Ompora, and the Incharge of DPMU Budgam were present in the meeting.

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