REASI: Deputy Commissioner Nidhi Malik today chaired a meeting of the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) Trust to review the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) and to ensure the effective and transparent utilization of the District Mineral Fund for the development of mining-affected areas.

Detailed discussions were held on proposed interventions and planned expenditures under the scheme. A major focus of the meeting was on addressing the pressing need of water supply augmentation amid rising temperatures. The DC approved a crucial plan to repair 138 defunct handpumps across the district, recognizing this as a priority to ensure community members have reliable water access during the hot summer months.

Emphasizing the need to maximize public benefit, DC Nidhi Malik directed to exclude the proposals for the installation of personal handpumps from the plan. She stressed that DMF funds should be allocated for community-oriented projects that serve the larger population, rather than installations that benefit only a few individuals.

The Deputy Commissioner also instructed the Executive Engineers (XENs) to carry out all works with a strong focus on quality and financial prudence. To enhance transparency and accountability, it was decided that the installation of each handpump be physically verified by the respective Block Development Officer. The meeting was attended by Chief Planning Officer Narinder Gupta, SE PWD, DSWO, Divisional Forest Officer Reasi, Chief Education Officer and other concerned 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