RAJOURI: The Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), Rajouri Block Doongi, under the Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj has brought laurels to the district by winning the prestigious Watershed Janbhagidari Cup, along with a cash award of ₹20 lakh, for outstanding community participation and sustainable watershed development.

The award was presented at a function held at Panchayat Bhawan, Jammu, by the  Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Javid Ahmad Dar in the presence of Secretary, RDD & PR, Mohammad Aijaz Asad and CEO IWMP J&K, Rajnish Kumar. The honour was received by Project Manager IWMP Rajouri, Auqil Nuvaid, on behalf of the district team.

The recognition underscores the remarkable success of community-led watershed interventions undertaken in Block Doongi during the financial year 2024–25, which have significantly enhanced water conservation, irrigation potential and agricultural sustainability in the region.

Under the programme, a total of 123 durable watershed assets were created, including 28 spring development works, 37 water harvesting tanks, 47 field channels, 3 check dams, 1 irrigation canal, 2 nallah bunds and 5 ponds. These interventions have collectively improved groundwater recharge, strengthened irrigation efficiency and enhanced livelihood opportunities for rural households.

Congratulating the IWMP Rajouri team, the dignitaries appreciated their inclusive planning, strong community participation and effective execution, describing the achievement as a benchmark for participatory and sustainable rural development in Jammu and Kashmir.

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