POONCH: Deputy Commissioner Poonch Vikas Kundal today chaired a meeting of the District-Level Committee under the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) to review the implementation of anti-drug measures and assess progress in combating the drug menace across the district.

The meeting was attended by SSP Shafket Hussain; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Program Officer ICDS, Chief Medical Officer, Principals of Degree Colleges, Drugs Inspector, DIO NIC, and other concerned officials. SDMs from Surankote and Mendhar, along with Tehsildars, joined the meeting virtually.

 The meeting witnessed a comprehensive subdivision-wise review of anti-narcotic initiatives, including the destruction of illicit cannabis crops and the ongoing Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign launched across the District. Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) and Tehsildars presented detailed reports on the actions taken since the last NCORD meeting.

The Deputy Commissioner instructed the Drugs Inspector to ensure regular monitoring of CCTV footage and computerized billing systems in all chemist shops to curb the misuse of prescription drugs. He further directed the civil and police administration to intensify surveillance, particularly in identified hotspot areas, and ensure zero tolerance for any drug-related activities.

Heads of educational institutions briefed the committee on awareness and preventive activities conducted in schools and colleges. The DC emphasized the need for mass checking drives and continuous sensitization efforts within these institutions. The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) shared updates on counseling services, medical support systems, and awareness initiatives rolled out by the Health Department to aid individuals affected by substance abuse.

Tehsildars were instructed to take immediate action for the destruction of cannabis in their respective jurisdictions without delay. Highlighting the importance of a multi-departmental coordinated approach, DC stressed on enhanced surveillance, installation of CCTV cameras, visible enforcement presence, and sustained awareness drives to achieve the vision of a drug-free Poonch. SSP Poonch Shafket Hussain emphasized the need for seamless inter-departmental coordination and swift action against any reported drug activity.

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