KULGAM: District administration Kulgam, in collaboration with the Pratham Foundation and the School Education department, today launched the ‘Classes of Joy’ initiative to bridge learning gaps in foundational literacy and numeracy among primary and middle school students.

The initiative was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kulgam, Athar Aamir Khan, who highlighted that the program follows the Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL) approach.

This method is designed to improve literacy and numeracy skills among primary-level students, particularly in low-resource settings, by tailoring instruction to the actual learning levels of students rather than their age or grade, he added.

Khan emphasized that classrooms should become ‘sources of joy’ where every student can thrive and reach their fullest potential. He elaborated that the first phase will involve a 100-day learning program in all 458 government primary and middle schools of the district, followed by a reassessment and a second 100-day round.

He further added that TaRL focuses on simple assessments to determine students’ current abilities, grouping them according to learning levels, and using engaging, activity-based teaching methods with daily practice to build core skills.

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