POONCH: In a decisive effort to enhance enrollment in government schools for the academic session 2025–26, an intensive drive was today launched across the Poonch district. The initiative is being carried out under the visionary guidance of Chief Education Officer (CEO) Iftikhar Ali Shah Kazmi, with active participation from school teachers, students and local communities.

The drive aims to raise awareness among parents and guardians about the improved facilities, quality education, and child-friendly environment offered in government schools. Special focus is being given to remote and underprivileged areas to ensure equitable access to education for all children.

In the Kanuyian Zone, Zonal Education Officer (ZEO)  Maqbool Hussain  has been monitoring the enrollment activities. A noteworthy initiative was undertaken by the staff and students of Government Middle School Dhant, located in one of the remotest villages of the zone. The school organized a community outreach rally, where students and teachers walked through various hamlets of the Dhant village, distributing pamphlets and engaging with villagers to spread awareness about the benefits of government schooling.

During the campaign, emphasis was laid on the various student-centric initiatives introduced in government schools, such as the availability of dedicated Aayas in pre-primary sections to care for kindergarten children, provision of free textbooks, uniforms, nutritious mid-day meals, scholarships, and a safe and inclusive learning environment. These measures have significantly improved enrollment and retention rates, especially in early childhood education.

The Chief Education officer highlighted that the appointment of Aayas in schools with pre-primary classes has proven to be a transformative step, encouraging parents to enroll their young children with confidence. “We are committed to creating an enabling learning atmosphere and will continue to upgrade infrastructure and support services to attract and retain students,” he said.

He further urged all headmasters, teachers, and educational stakeholders to actively participate in the enrollment drive and ensure no child is left out of the schooling system. "It is our collective responsibility to strengthen the foundation of education in the district and make quality education accessible to every child," he added.

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