KOTRANKA: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Rajouri, under the aegis of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) and the guidance of the Jammu and Kashmir Legal Services Authority, today organized a one-day awareness-cum-orientation programme under the SAMVAD Scheme at Kotranka, focusing on the rights, schemes and challenges faced by tribal communities.

The programme was organized in collaboration with the District Social Welfare Department, and it aimed at sensitizing the tribal population of the district about their legal entitlements and welfare schemes available for their upliftment. Secretary DLSA (Sub Judge), Shama Sharma welcomed the Officers from participating departments and tribal beneficiaries, emphasizing the importance of spreading awareness about legal rights and schemes, especially in remote tribal belts.

Speaking on the occasion, Principal District and Sessions Judge, Rajinder Sapru highlighted the significance of the SAMVAD Scheme in empowering tribal communities and ensuring that justice reaches the last mile. Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma, in his address appreciated the initiative and stressed upon the administration’s commitment to inclusive development. He called upon all stakeholders to ensure that the tribal people are not left behind in the developmental journey and in availing benefit from all government schemes.

Various departments, including the Social Welfare Department, J&K Police, Health, PWD and PHE, presented detailed information about the schemes and initiatives meant for tribal welfare. Awareness stalls were installed by participating departments to disseminate information and provide on-the-spot assistance. During the programme, selected tribal beneficiaries were provided with helping kits and pension sanction letters were handed over to eligible individuals.

The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks presented by Munsiff Kotranka Deepshikha Kakru, who acknowledged the contributions of all departments and stakeholders in making the event successful. This initiative marks a significant step toward bridging the information gap and ensuring access to justice for the tribal population of Rajouri.

Shivika Gupta District Mobile Magistrate (T) Rajouri, ADC Kotranka, DSWO, Additional SP Kandi Wajahat Hussain, Ex En PWD Abdul Raheem, Ex En PHE, BMO Kotranka and a number of sectoral and district officers were present on the occasion. The programme concluded as a ray of hope for the tribal community.

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