KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Dr. Rakesh Minhas, today presided over an awareness camp on the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PM SGMBY), organized by the Power Development Department (PDD) at the DC Office Complex. The event was part of the ongoing outreach campaign by District Administration Kathua aimed at educating the public about the scheme's substantial benefits and encouraging participation.

Highlighting the lucrative incentives under the scheme, the DC informed that PM SGMBY offers a subsidy of over 65% on the installation of solar rooftop units. He noted that a 3 KW solar unit, priced at â‚č1.60 lakh, requires a subscriber investment of only â‚č65,000, ensuring zero electricity bills and free power generation. The solar panels come with a 25-year warranty, eliminating maintenance costs and ensuring long-term savings.

Dr. Minhas also urged the public to obtain legal electricity connections, refrain from electricity theft and be responsible citizens by availing themselves of the scheme’s benefits. Executive Engineer PDD Kathua informed that the camp facilitated on-the-spot registration of interested households through government-approved vendors. He also informed attendees that Jammu & Kashmir Bank is offering financial assistance, providing loans at a 7% interest rate for up to 95% of the project’s cost. Among others present were Additional Deputy Commissioner Kathua Ranjit Singh, Chief Planning Officer Ranjeet Thakur, district and sectoral officers, PDD officials and a large gathering of the general public. 

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