BARAMULLA: Minister for Agriculture Production Department, Rural Development Department, Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar inaugurated the sixth branch of Kashmir Mercantile Co-Operative Bank Limited (KMCO) at Kunzer here today.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister emphasized on the crucial role of cooperative banks in strengthening the rural economy, stating that the fully computerized KMCO branch will provide comprehensive financial services to local residents, benefiting the farming community and facilitating government welfare schemes. Javid Dar highlighted KMCO's pioneering digital initiatives, including the implementation of Core Banking System (CBS) in 2012, enabling real-time 24x7 access, and issuance of customized RuPay Debit Cards for seamless transactions nationwide.

The Minister announced that the Omar Abdullah government will also open branches of KMCO in other districts of the Union Territory, expanding the bank's reach and services to more areas. He added that this move aims to further strengthen the rural economy and provide accessible financial services to a wider population, aligning with the government's focus on rural development and cooperative growth. MLA Gulmarg, Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah; MLA Sopore, Irshad Rasool Kar and senior officials of KMCO were also present on the occasion.

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