BARAMULLA: In a major stride towards strengthening the rural infrastructure and ensuring safe drinking water for all, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, today inaugurated three Water Supply Schemes (WSS) under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in Baramulla district.

Among others present were MLA Baramulla Javid Hassan Beigh, MLA Uri Sajad Shafi, MLA Pattan Reyaz Bedar and Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Minga Sherpa along with senior officers of Jal Shakti Department, engineers and local representatives.

The three schemes inaugurated included WSS Kitchama, WSS Kanispora and Retrofitting of WSS Khadniyar established with an expenditure of Rs 353.37 lakh, Rs 1065.96 lakh and Rs 149.23 lakh respectively. These schemes have been designed to provide Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs) and improve access to potable water in the respective panchayats household thereby benefitting more than 13000 rural residents.

WSS Kitchama, a gravity-based scheme, covers a population of 2,435 with 314 household tap connections, while WSS Kanispora, a lift-based scheme, will benefit 8,722 people through 1,246 FHTCs. WSS Khadniyar (Retrofitting) caters to 2,224 people with 303 FHTCs. Speaking on the occasion, Javed Rana said that the Jal Jeevan Mission is a historic initiative by the Government of India to bring piped drinking water to every rural household.

He added that the schemes inaugurated today are a testimony to the government's unwavering commitment towards improving the basic amenities and living standards of people in far-flung and underserved areas.

The Minister emphasized that providing clean and safe drinking water is not just an infrastructure goal but a critical step towards ensuring health, dignity and empowerment of rural communities, especially women. He remarked that with completion of these schemes, thousands of families in Kitchama, Kanispora and Khadniyar will now have direct access to potable water at their doorstep.

He appreciated the engineers, field staff and officials of the Jal Shakti Department for working tirelessly on ground, even in challenging terrain, to make these schemes a reality. He also acknowledged the cooperation in of the local panchayats and community members in facilitating timely implementation.

The Minister said that these efforts are part of a broader strategy to uplift the rural life through better amenities and inclusive development. He expressed hope that with continued support and coordination at all levels, Baramulla district will achieve full coverage of drinking water.

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