SHOPIAN: In a major step towards strengthening agricultural development and empowering farmers at the grassroots level, Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA) was launched today in district Shopian with great enthusiasm.

The campaign initiated by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development is being jointly implemented by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, and will begin from May 29 until June 12, 2025.

The rally marking the beginning of the campaign was flagged-off from the Mini Secretariat Shopian by Dr. Nasir Ahmad Lone, Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Shopian, in the presence of the nodal officers of the programme, Dr. Zaffar Afroz Badri, Sr. Scientist & Head, KVK Shopian and Mohammad Rafiq, Chief Agriculture Officer Shopian.

The rally witnessed active participation from scientists of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Shopian and enthusiastic involvement from officers and officials of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Department of Horticulture, Animal Husbandry, Sheep Husbandry, Sericulture, and Fisheries, Shopian.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Lone emphasized the importance of VKSA in creating awareness among farmers regarding improved agricultural practices, government schemes, and available scientific support. He urged all stakeholders to remain vibrant, proactive, and engaged throughout the campaign to ensure tangible benefits reach farmers.

Dr. Badri, outlined the strategic plan under VKSA, announcing that nine intensive awareness and outreach programs will be conducted across key locations in the district, focusing on the Pro-Kharif campaign. These events will ensure farmers gain direct access to expert guidance, improved technologies, and government services related to agriculture, livestock, poultry, fisheries, and more.

Chief Agriculture Officer Shopian and nodal officer of VKSA, emphasized the importance of determination and dedication to the outreach plan. He urged all teams to maintain strong engagement with farmers, listen to their challenges, offer appropriate solutions, and document grassroots feedback to inform future research and policy initiatives.

Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan aims to create a bridge between farmers and the scientific community, fostering a culture of mutual learning, innovation sharing, and field-level transformation. The collaborative spirit of the KVK and line departments will enhance the impact of the campaign, bringing inclusive growth and resilience to the agricultural landscape of Shopian.

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