KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, today convened a meeting to discuss the modalities for formulation of Village Action Plans under the Vibrant Villages Programme-II (VVP-II) for holistic and inclusive development of identified border villages of the district.

The meeting was attended by PO ICDS, GM DIC, CPO and district officers of concerned departments. Threadbare discussions were held on inter-departmental coordination and convergence for the implementation of the programme in a mission mode.

It was given out in the meeting that six border villages- Bobiya, Kadiyala, Ganjal, Karol Krishna, Rathua and Gujar Chack have been identified under VVP-II for comprehensive development. The strategy envisages saturation of all eligible Government schemes, besides strengthening key infrastructure under ten identified thematic areas.

The Deputy Commissioner was informed that the baseline survey of the identified villages has already been completed, providing a clear assessment of existing infrastructure, socio-economic conditions and sector-wise gaps. The survey findings will serve as the foundation for preparation of need-based, realistic and outcome-oriented Village Action Plans.

The plans will focus on mandated sectors including education infrastructure, skill development, energisation, financial inclusion, livelihood generation, promotion of tourism and creative outreach activities, road connectivity, television and telecom connectivity, health services and overall village infrastructure.

Calling upon all stakeholders to work in close coordination, the DC directed the departments to formulate comprehensive Village Action Plans strictly as mandated under the programme, with the overarching objective of uplifting the socio-economic conditions of inhabitants of these border villages.

The DC further emphasised that effective convergence, timely execution and focused monitoring will be key to translating the objectives of Vibrant Villages Programme-II into tangible outcomes on the ground.

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