REASI: In a proactive step towards providing doorstep governance and ensuring timely redressal of public grievances, District Development Commissioner (DDC) Reasi, Nidhi Malik today convened a Public outreach camp at Dak Bungalow Pouni. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation of ex-PRI members, local residents, senior citizens and representatives from different panchayats of Pouni Tehsil.

During the public interaction, the DDC patiently listened to grievances raised by the participants and assured them that all genuine issues would be resolved in a time-bound manner. The major concerns projected by the people pertained to road connectivity, drinking water supply, power issues, Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) works and other public welfare matters.

Local delegations demanded augmentation of healthcare services at PHC Pouni, including the installation of an ultrasound machine, posting of a gynecologist. They also sought establishment of a water filtration plant and release of pending PMAY payments. Representatives from Bhambla also highlighted flood-related damages and sought road blacktopping, school upgradation and adequate health staff.

Responding to public demands, the DDC issued on-spot directions to the concerned officers. The XEN Jal Shakti Dadowa was instructed to address water supply issues by managing staff shortages and utilizing available resources efficiently. The DDC also directed to deploy adequate staff at pumping stations to ensure uninterrupted water supply, especially from the Dhanwa Saloon Water Lift Scheme, where immediate issues were resolved on the spot.

The DC directed XEN to submit a proposal for additional funds required to restore the supply from multi-spring water storage Reservoir at Bhambla, which developed a breach. The Power Development Department was asked to address the shortage of electricity poles. The concerned XEN informed that the requisition has already been proposed and will be acted upon at the earliest.

To improve road connectivity, the BDO Pouni was instructed to take up repair of damaged rural roads under a special sanction and expedite the execution of works. Similarly, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) was directed to prioritize posting of adequate staff in PHC Pouni and to explore the provision of an ambulance as demanded by the public. On the demand for opening of mining blocks in Pouni, the DDC assured that the matter would be taken up with the District Mineral Officer (DMO) for consideration.

The DDC also directed the BDO Pouni to initiate road construction and maintenance works under MGNREGA, besides instructing to incorporate all pending developmental works in the upcoming District Plan. Addressing grievances related to education, she directed the Chief Education Officer (CEO) to ensure the safety of students and monitor the condition of educational institutions.

Informing the gathering about other initiatives, DDC Malik said that the ultrasound machine at PHC Pouni will be made functional shortly, while sanction letters have already been issued to Anganwadi workers and helpers. She further informed that funds for restoration of infrastructure, assets damaged in August floods will be released soon.  Prominent among those present at the camp included ADC Sudershan Kumar; CPO Narinder Kumar, CEO, XEN PHE, Tehsildar Pouni, BDO Pouni and other senior 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