KATHUA: To ensure prompt redressal of public issues at the grassroots level, Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma today chaired a Public Grievances Redressal Camp at Panchayat Ghar Jarai in Block Nagri.

The camp witnessed enthusiastic participation from local residents, who projected various demands and grievances, seeking road connectivity to unconnected areas, augmentation of drinking water and Power supply, upgrading of school infrastructure, development of playgrounds and employment opportunities in industries.

During the camp, the Deputy Commissioner, accompanied by officers of various line departments, interacted with the public and listened to their concerns patiently. Several grievances were redressed on the spot, while directions were issued to the concerned departments for early disposal of pending issues.

On the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner also planted a sapling in the Panchayat premises, emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation and collective responsibility towards preserving green cover.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner reiterated the District Administration’s commitment towards transparent, accountable and people-centric governance. He assured the public that all genuine grievances would be addressed in a time-bound manner. He also highlighted various government welfare schemes and urged eligible beneficiaries to avail the benefits of these initiatives for their socio-economic upliftment.

The Deputy Commissioner called upon the youth to stay away from the menace of drug abuse and channelise their energy towards constructive activities and employment opportunities. He emphasized the importance of skill development, education and self-employment initiatives for building a prosperous and drug-free society.

He further urged the people to actively participate in Census-2027 (Phase-I), informing that Self Enumeration would be conducted from May 17 to May 31, 2026, followed by House Listing and Housing Census from June 1 to June 30, 2026. He clarified that Census officials shall only seek responses to the prescribed questionnaire and will not ask for any OTP, bank details or other personal documents during house visits. He advised the public to cooperate only with authorized Census staff carrying valid identity cards.

The locals appreciated the initiative of the District Administration and expressed satisfaction over the efforts being made to strengthen public outreach and ensure effective grievance redressal at their doorstep. Among others present were CPO Kathua Ranjeet Thakur, ACD Kathua Akhil Sadotra and other district and sectoral officers.

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