KATHUA: A grand District Mega Kisan Mela was inaugurated today at Ghatti, Kathua by Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Election Department, Javid Ahmed Dar. The event witnessed massive participation from the farmers, agriculture experts and scientists from SKUAST, making it a vibrant hub of knowledge sharing, technological demonstrations and farmer–scientist interactions.

In his inaugural address, Javid Dar lauded the Agriculture Department for bringing together diverse stakeholders of the farming sector. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment towards empowering the farmers through innovation, technology adoption and farmer-friendly policies.

The Minister directed the officers to conduct village-level awareness camps to disseminate information on agricultural and allied sector schemes. He also urged the farming community to shift from primary to secondary agriculture, enabling them to connect with direct marketing channels for better price realization. Earlier, the Minister laid foundation stone for strengthening the Goat Farm at Rajbagh, a project worth â‚č349.94 lakh, aimed at boosting livestock infrastructure and farmer livelihood opportunities.

The Chief Agriculture Officer, Kathua, briefed the gathering on district achievements, departmental schemes, success stories of progressive farmers, precision farming initiatives and efforts to improve soil health, productivity and market linkages. Guest of Honour, MLA Jasrota, Rajiv Jasrotia, emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between the scientific advancements and ground-level adoption. He encouraged the farmers to embrace the modern farming technologies to enhance income.

The event was attended by Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma, Director Agriculture Jammu Anil Gupta, HoDs of allied departments and DDC representatives. The Mela featured a wide array of stalls showcasing the modern machinery, improved seed varieties, integrated farming models, organic and natural farming technologies besides departmental initiatives aimed at doubling the farmers’ income. Besides, live demonstrations and technical sessions by SKUAST scientists offered hands-on solutions to farmers’ field challenges.

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