• 146 fishermen get asset support for better storage and transportation

KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma today distributed insulated ice boxes among fishermen and fish farmers under the Jammu & Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP) at a function held at DC Office complex.

In Kathua district, five blocks viz Barnoti, Billawar, Bani, Kathua and Lohai Malhar have been selected under the project for focused interventions in the fisheries and allied sectors.

As part of the programme, 146 fishermen were selected for distribution of insulated ice boxes, while one beneficiary was provided a vending cart to strengthen direct market access and improve livelihood opportunities. DC Rajesh Sharma formally started the distribution of 50-litre and 25-litre capacity ice boxes among the fishermen of Kathua and Barnoti blocks.

The provision of insulated ice boxes aims to maintain the freshness and quality of fish by minimizing spoilage and ensuring hygienic handling during storage and transportation, thereby reducing post-harvest losses and enabling better price realization for the fishermen.

The DC highlighted that such interventions are aimed at strengthening the traditional fishing community by providing essential infrastructure support and improving their economic sustainability. He emphasized that the project would help in enhancing shelf life of fish produce, improving market linkages and empowering fishermen with better income-generating opportunities.

Worthwhile to mention here that, JKCIP is an IFAD-funded initiative aimed at increasing rural household incomes by improving agricultural productivity, climate resilience and market access for around 3 lakh households across Jammu and Kashmir, with special focus on agriculture and allied sectors. IAS Probationer Nidhi, AD Fisheries Kathua Pawan Sharma, besides local beneficiaries were also present.

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