KISHTWAR: Under the directions of Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma and under the supervision of District Child Protection Officer, Tariq Parvaiz Qazi, the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), in collaboration with Child Helpline, issued a strong advisory to scrap dealers across the district, directing them not to buy or collect scrap from children below 18 years of age under any circumstances.

During an awareness drive, the Protection Officer (NIC), Mission stressed that minors often handle hazardous waste without understanding the associated risks. This exposure may result in severe injuries, infections, long-term health complications and also causes serious disruption to their education.

Scrap dealers were urged to act as responsible citizens by ensuring that no child is engaged in scrap-related activities. Officials cautioned that strict action will be taken against anyone found violating child protection norms or encouraging child labour in any form.

The team appealed to parents and the general public to remain vigilant and ensure that children stay focused on education and constructive activities rather than waste collection.

Vickey Sharma, Project Coordinator, Child Helpline (1098) Kishtwar, highlighted that involving children in scrap collection directly promotes child labour and exposes them to significant health and safety hazards. He added that awareness drives will continue across the district to protect children’s rights and promote a safer environment for them. The campaign team also included Aaqib Qazi, Outreach Worker, DCPU Kishtwar, who supported the awareness efforts.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇

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