• DC inaugurates 5th women SHG run Canteen in the District

UDHAMPUR:   In a significant move towards women's empowerment and community development, the Deputy Commissioner Udhampur, Saloni Rai today  inaugurated the “Didi Ki Rasoi” canteen- an NULM sponsored venture at Government ITI Udhampur. The Canteen, fifth of its kind in Udhampur District, is operated by Women Self-Help Groups of DUDA Udhampur, offering affordable, nutritious, home-cooked meals to students, faculty, visitors and the general public.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by ADDC Rajinder Singh; Project Officer, DUDA Jaffar Abass Batt and Superintendent Ravinder Singh among other officials. Speaking to the media, the DC said that the initiative serves a dual purpose of providing SHG women a sustainable source of income and offering people hygienic, reasonably priced food. It also serves as a platform for SHG members to showcase their culinary talent and entrepreneurial capabilities.

“The 'Didi Ki Rasoi' canteen marks a significant step toward women’s empowerment in Udhampur, with the administration planning to open many more canteens across the district,” the DC added. She applauded the efforts of DUDA Project Officer for his leadership in pioneering the idea, which culminated in winning the prestigious SKOCH Award for District Administration Udhampur.

The DC also felicitated the Didis associated with the Didi Ki Rasoi, acknowledging their pivotal role in generating a steady income source for themselves and contributing to women's empowerment. The DC also honored all DUDA team members for their commitment and dedication toward women empowerment.

Notably, these canteens have been established at Government College for Women Udhampur, DC Office Complex Udhampur, Government Degree College Boys Udhampur and Sub-District Hospital Ramnagar. The initiative aligns with the objective of uplifting urban poor women by enhancing sustainable livelihood opportunities through skill development.

 To mark the occasion, a Neem tree was planted at the canteen site, symbolizing harmony, prosperity and environmental consciousness aligning with the administration’s focus on sustainable development and community well-being.

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