SRINAGAR: Minister for Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today chaired an exclusive meeting of Tribal Affairs department to review the functioning of Gujjar & Bakerwal hostels across Kashmir division. The meeting was attended by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Director Tribal Affairs and other officers.

The Minister had a detailed assessment of working of the hostels with emphasis on completion of infrastructural projects, facilities for students, pre and post-matric scholarship and land acquisition among other issues.

While addressing the meeting, Javed Rana instructed the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir and Deputy Commissioner Srinagar to resolve all land acquisition issues for fast-tracking completion of infrastructure projects related to welfare of tribal students. He underscored the importance of coordinated efforts among all stakeholders for effective implementation of government schemes, stressing that the intended benefits must reach the most marginalized sections of the tribal community.

Emphasizing on the importance of holistic development for students, the Minister directed the Director Tribal Affairs to ensure all necessary facilities are provided in hostels to foster academic and personal growth of students.

Rana took first hand appraisal about implementation of various schemes being executed for welfare of tribal students. He also reviewed the pre and post-matric scholarship for SC/ST students and said that no student should be left behind in availing the benefits of the government schemes.

Javed Rana also sought details about the repair and renovation works being carried out in the hostels. He directed the concerned to closely monitor the progress of works for maintaining quality standards and completion within the set timelines.

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