RAMBAN: To enhance community preparedness and response during emergencies, the District Administration Ramban, in collaboration with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), today conducted a training session-cum-mock drill as part of the 2nd Civil Defense Exercise – “Operation Shield.” The Mock Drill Exercise was held at Government Model Higher Secondary School (GMHSS) under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner Ramban, Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary and was presided over by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Varunjeet Singh Charak.

Among others present were Tehsildar Ramban, Deep Kumar, Dy. SP DAR (In-charge Civil Defence Ramban), Principal GMHSS Ramban, Kewal Krishan Sharma, officers from the Fire & Emergency Services, SDRF experts, staff and students of the host institution.

The mock drill focused on sensitizing young students about effective rescue and safety techniques during natural and man-made disasters, with demonstrations and interactive sessions led by SDRF and Fire & Emergency Services teams. Students were educated on evacuation methods, basic first aid, fire-fighting and handling panic situations.

Speaking on the occasion, ADC Varunjeet Singh Charak emphasized that the choice of a school as the venue was intentional. “Young students are the best ambassadors of safety and awareness. Training them today ensures a resilient and informed society tomorrow,” he said. He urged the students to carry forward the knowledge to their families and communities, strengthening the district’s disaster response mechanism.

Dy. SP DAR, while addressing the gathering, highlighted the role of the Civil Defense and SDRF in crisis response and encouraged greater participation of citizens in such preparedness initiatives. He reiterated the importance of timely drills and training to minimize casualties and damage during unforeseen events. The event concluded with a Q&A session where students actively engaged with officials and experts, showcasing their keen interest in disaster preparedness and community safety.

Similar mock drill exercises were also coordinated by the Assistant Commissioner Revenue Ramban, Shoket Hayat Mattoo at Government Higher Secondary School Banihal and Government Higher Secondary School Batote under "Operation SHIELD" in the presence of senior officers. These drills witnessed active participation from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Emergency Fire Services, Medical Teams, Home Guards, Revenue Department and Education Department staff along with enthusiastic involvement of students. The objective was to enhance preparedness, coordination and timely response among various departments and stakeholders in the event of a disaster or emergency situation.

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