KISHTWAR: Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma today chaired a review meeting to assess the progress of the Jammu & Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP) in the district. The meeting focused on enhancing coordination among departments and ensuring effective and timely implementation of key government schemes aimed at supporting the farming community.

The Deputy Commissioner directed the Agriculture Department to encourage the farmers to take benefit of different components of the JKCIP, including saffron, medicinal and aromatic plants (MAP), water management, protective cultivation, mushroom cultivation, and honey production. It was informed that a total of 9 applications have been received so far—seven from Kishtwar, one each from Mughalmaidan and Palmar, while no applications have been received from Nagseni and Thakrie blocks.

FLOs of Block Nagseni and Thakrie were specifically instructed to motivate the local farmers to apply and avail the benefits of the Project. The Chief Agriculture Officer (CAO) was directed to organize training sessions for FLOs to update them on the process of filing of application and preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs).

The FLOs were also asked to involve the Krishi Kalyan Groups (KKGs) of their respective blocks to mobilize more applications. Similarly, the FLOs of the Horticulture Department were instructed to encourage fruit growers to seek support for apple, walnut and kiwi plantation. It was informed that 8 applications have been received under horticulture so far.

The District Sheep Husbandry Department was asked to expedite application collection and conduct the District Level Implementation Committee (DLIC) meeting for approved cases. A total of 38 applications have been received in this sector. In addition, the FPO Development Office was directed to initiate the formation of Youth Clubs under the Environment Protection Fund, as part of the component related to support for pastoralists.

The Lead Bank Manager was also directed to nominate a banking representative for the upcoming KSA Rural Credit Workshop. The Deputy Commissioner urged all departments to work in coordination and intensify their efforts to reach out to eligible beneficiaries to ensure the successful implementation of the JKCIP in Kishtwar. The meeting was attended by CAO Kishtwar Kushal Chandel, CHO Kishtwar Sajid Mustafa, DSHO Kishtwar, LDM Kishtwar besides other senior officers and concerned staff.

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