BUDGAM: The Deputy Commissioner Budgam,Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat today flagged off a group of 100 progressive farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs for a cluster-based exposure visit under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) to different agriculture institutions of J&K. The exposure visit aims to provide farmers with first-hand knowledge and technical insights into modern farming practices, with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and productivity enhancement. 

During the tour, the participating farmers will visit several renowned agricultural institutions including the Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture (CITH), Dryland Agricultural Research Station (DARS), Rangreth, Integrated Mushroom Development Centre (IMD), Lal Mandi, Kitchen Gardens, Lal Mandi, Floriculture Hot House, and the Lavender Park in Srinagar.

On the occasion, the DC Budgam underscored the vital role of agriculture in the district’s economy and reaffirmed the district administration’s commitment to farmer welfare and sustainable agricultural growth.  He urged the participating farmers to take full advantage of the exposure visit and incorporate the best practices into their farming operations.

DC assured the farming community for district administration’s continuous support in upgrading their technical skills and empowering them through innovative and market-oriented initiatives. He further said, District administration remains steadfast in promoting farmer-centric programmes aimed at increasing productivity, fostering agri-entrepreneurship, and enhancing market linkages for local produce. Besides , Chief agriculture officer (CAO) Budgam, all SDAOs and officials of concerned were present on the occasion.

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