RAMBAN: The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation (RD&GR) Jammu, in collaboration with the District Administration Ramban, today organised a one-day workshop on National Aquifer Mapping and Management (NAQUIM) Studies at the Conference Hall, Ramban.

The workshop was chaired by Scientist-D Rakesh Rana in the presence of ACD Ramban Sheraz Ahmed and Senior Scientist Rayees Ahmad Pir. The programme commenced with the inaugural address by Scientist-D Rakesh Rana, highlighting the importance of scientific groundwater assessment and sustainable management practices. This was followed by a technical session featuring expert presentations.

Assistant Hydrogeologist Mohammad Abid Khan, CGWB Jammu, presented the key findings and outcomes of the NAQUIM study conducted in Ramban district, outlining groundwater availability, challenges and future management strategies. Senior Scientist Rayees Ahmad Pir addressed queries raised by participating departments, discussed field-level challenges and elaborated on suitable remedial measures.

A detailed technical discussion session was also held on groundwater-related issues, emphasising the need for conservation and adoption of scientific techniques to enhance groundwater availability. Modern approaches for sustainable management and protection of groundwater resources in Ramban district were deliberated.

The primary objective of the workshop was dissemination of NAQUIM study results and creating awareness about local groundwater conditions, conservation practices, groundwater issues and effective groundwater management strategies.

The workshop witnessed participation from officers and officials of various departments including Rural Development Department (RDD), PHE, I&FC (Jal Shakti), Soil & Water Conservation, Planning, Forest Department and other stakeholder agencies.

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