JAMMU: The first campaign of National Road Safety Month – 2026 was formally kick-started today at Border Security Force (BSF) Headquarters, Paloura this morning under the inspiring theme “Safety through Learning, Transformation through Technology.” The programme forms an integral part of the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety, reinforcing the global commitment to reducing road accidents and saving lives.

The event was organized by Commandant BSF in collaboration with the Transport Department Government of Jammu & Kashmir. Secretary to Government Transport Department Jammu & Kashmir Avny Lavasa  graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

Senior officers present on the occasion included Commandant BSF, Additional Transport Commissioner, Joint Transport Commissioner, Regional Transport Officer, Jammu, Assistant Transport Commissioner, Assistant Regional Transport Officer along with other distinguished officers of BSF and officials of the Transport Department. BSF personnel, their drivers and family members also participated enthusiastically in the programme.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest appreciated BSF Headquarters Paloura  for taking this commendable initiative in collaboration with the Transport Department. She emphasized that road safety is not merely a departmental responsibility but a collective social obligation, deeply connected with human life, dignity and responsibility.

Highlighting the theme of the year, she stated that “Safety through Learning” underlines the importance of awareness knowledge of traffic rules and disciplined road behavior, while “Transformation through Technology” focuses on the role of modern innovations such as intelligent traffic systems, digital enforcement, simulators and data-driven policies in making roads safer and smarter.

The Chief Guest reiterated the commitment of the Transport Department, Jammu & Kashmir towards promoting road safety through the four pillars of Education, Enforcement, Engineering and Emergency Care. Various initiatives such as awareness campaigns, school and college outreach programmes, skill-based driver training, and technology-driven solutions were highlighted as ongoing efforts in this direction.

As part of the programme, on-the-spot Driving Licence Trial Tests of around 50 BSF personnel were conducted, underscoring the importance of competence, discipline and accountability behind the wheel. It was emphasized that a driving licence is not merely a document but a certificate of trust bestowed by society.

The audience was reminded that road safety is sustained not only by laws and enforcement but by everyday choices such as wearing helmets and seatbelts, avoiding distractions, respecting speed limits, and exercising patience on the road. Special emphasis was laid on the role of youth as drivers of change, setting examples through responsible behavior.

On the occasion, Surinder Kumar, Motor Vehicle Inspector, delivered a detailed PowerPoint presentation with video display on road safety awareness, highlighting accident data, major causes of road accidents and preventive measures.

The campaign, launched from BSF Headquarters, Paloura, will be carried forward across the entire Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir during National Road Safety Month – 2026.

The programme concluded with a call for sustained collective efforts to ensure safer roads, safer journeys and a safer future for all, and with the formal inauguration of National Road Safety Month – 2026.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇

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