DODA: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Harvinder Singh, convened a Public outreach camp at Batholi Chilly Bhallessa today to directly interact with the residents and address their issues. The event saw active participation from a large number of locals, including senior citizens, PRI members, and community leaders. A team of officers comprising Assistant Commissioner Development, Assistant Commissioner Panchayats, Chief Education Officer, SDPO Bhallessa, and officers from line departments were present to take stock of the public concerns.

The locals put forth a wide range of demands seeking construction of new roads, blacktopping of existing roads, augmentation of drinking water and electricity supply, ambulance services, effective implementation of MGNREGA, and effective implementation of agriculture and allied sector schemes. The demand for upgradation of schools, adequate staff in education and health institutions, and upgrading of Primary Health Centres and Anganwadi Centres was also highlighted.

Responding to the demands, the DC assured that road blacktopping projects in the area would be prioritized. He issued on-the-spot directions to the Animal and Sheep Husbandry Department officers to conduct awareness camps and complete vaccination drives for livestock before Eid to ensure animal health and welfare. He informed the public that any instance of absenteeism in schools can be reported directly to the Control Room at DC Office Doda for swift redressal. He emphasized the importance of community participation in governance and assured prompt action on genuine grievances.

The DC also highlighted the implementation of the "Dharti Abhiyan"-a focused initiative aimed at developing areas with more than 50% tribal population. He said the scheme envisions inclusive infrastructure development and welfare measures for tribal communities. Several other issues raised by the public included water scarcity in Dhars, need for better health facilities, and proper implementation of the Forest Rights Act. The DC gave a patient hearing and assured the public that their concerns will be addressed in a phased and time-bound manner.

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