SHOPIAN: Central Integrated Pest Management Centre (CIPMC), Srinagar, in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture, Zone Zainapora, organised a Farmers Field School (FFS) programme today at village Reshipora, block Zainapora of Shopian. The programme aimed to educate and empower farmers with sustainable agricultural practices through Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques.

Assistant Plant Protection Officer addressed the gathering and briefed the farmers about the objectives and structure of the FFS programme. He emphasized the importance of adopting IPM practices to reduce the dependency on chemical pesticides, thereby ensuring environmental safety, improved crop health, and better yield quality.

He highlighted practical and scientific approaches to pest management, encouraging farmers to rely on eco-friendly techniques, biological control methods, and crop monitoring as key components of the IPM strategy. He also stressed the need for farmer participation and experiential learning, which form the foundation of the FFS model.

Horticulture Development Officer, Zainapora reiterated the importance of creating awareness about the judicious and safer use of pesticides, while promoting cultural, mechanical, and biological methods of pest control. He encouraged farmers to adopt the practices discussed for long-term agricultural sustainability. The event was well-attended by local farmers, officials, and field staff, and marked a significant step towards strengthening farmer education and sustainable horticultural development in the region.

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