POONCH: Block Mankote has achieved a significant milestone by securing No. 1 rank in Jammu Division and an impressive 9th rank at the national level under the Aspirational Block Programme (ABP) rankings released by NITI Aayog for Quarter 4 of 2024.

This remarkable progress has been made possible under the visionary leadership and active supervision of Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal. The Block, which was ranked 348th in Quarter 2 of 2024, rose to 99th rank in Quarter 3 and has now climbed to 9th rank, marking one of the fastest improvements recorded nationwide.

Officials attributed the success to the dedicated efforts of all line departments, coordinated implementation by the Block Development Officer Mankote, and continuous technical support by Aspirational Block Programme Fellow who has been actively engaged in monitoring key indicators and driving development interventions.

Significant contributions were also made by the Assistant Commissioner Development and the District Statistical and Evaluation Officer, Poonch, who are the designated Nodal Officers for the Aspirational Block Programme in the district. Their close coordination, regular reviews, and guidance have played a crucial role in achieving this landmark performance.

District Development Commissioner Vikas Kundal commended the team’s commitment and hard work, stating that this achievement reflects the collective resolve to improve core sectors such as health, education, agriculture and infrastructure. He emphasised the importance of sustaining this momentum to further enhance the quality of life for the residents of Block Mankote.

The District Administration has reiterated its commitment to providing all necessary support and resources to ensure that Block Mankote continues to set new benchmarks in development and good governance.

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