SHOPIAN: A high-level meeting was chaired by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Shopian, Shishir Gupta, at the Mini-Secretariat today to review the progress of implementation of PM Surya Ghar  Muft Bijli Yojana and the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), being executed in the district. During the meeting, the DC took a detailed appraisal of the progress achieved under both schemes and emphasized the need to expedite works to ensure timely completion.

Officers from the Power Development Department (PDD) presented the latest status of household registrations, installation of solar plants under PM Surya Ghar, and progress on smart metering and infrastructure strengthening under RDSS. The DC directed the officers to accelerate the pace of execution and remove bottlenecks, if any, so that the benefits of these flagship initiatives reach the public at the earliest.

He stressed the importance of awareness among the general public about the PM Surya Ghar, Muft Bijli Yojana, which aims to promote renewable energy and reduce electricity bills through rooftop solar installations. As part of the RDSS, the first phase involves taking up 13 feeders for execution, with a completion timeline of December 31, 2025. The project includes the installation of 5700 electric poles afresh, along with 275 Distribution Transformers, to improve the power infrastructure in the district.

The department has achieved a significant milestone with 260 solar power rooftops already installed in the district under PM SuryaGhar, with hundred more in the pipeline, showcasing the district's commitment to harnessing renewable energy. Under the RDSS, the DC emphasized improving power supply reliability, reducing transmission losses, and ensuring 100% smart metering in the district.

He asked the concerned engineers to maintain close coordination with the executing agencies and regularly monitor the progress on the ground. Additionally, the DC directed the officers to increase outreach efforts and mobilize more people to avail benefits under the PM Surya Ghar Scheme. The meeting was attended by ADDC Dr. Nasir Ahmed Lone; SDM Zainapora Bilal Ahmed; LDM, Executive Engineers of PDD and RE Wing, Project Implementing Agency representatives, 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