JAMMU: In a significant step towards efficient water management, the Project Management Unit (PMU) of the Modernization Command Area Development (MCAD) Scheme, also known as SAMRIDDHI today conducted an extensive inspection and public interaction programme at Patyari Cluster in Samba district.

The team, led by Pankaj Magotra, Director, Command Area Development (CAD) Jammu and comprising officials from the Central Water Commission and allied departments, assessed the water feasibility aspects. They engaged with the Water User Society members and community representatives to understand ground-level issues, gather feedback and ensure participatory planning for effective water resource management. The inspection aimed to strengthen the inter-departmental coordination and promote sustainable water utilization strategies for enhanced agricultural productivity in the region.

This ambitious irrigation project envisages covering an area of 401.3 ha spread across 7 villages with Ravi Main Canal as the source. These villages included Radial, Muthi Kalan, Muthi Khurd, Naran, Gangeeth, Patyari and Patyari Katlan of Block-Ghagwal in Samba district.  The key features included a pressurized piped irrigation network, solar backup and SCADA/IoT automation. It envisages conversion from open canals to Pressurized Piped Irrigation Network (PPIN) with Pump house, primary–tertiary pipelines, valves, filtration and surge protection.

The project promises numerous benefits, including 75% water-use efficiency, 20-30% increase in crop productivity and reduced water and energy losses. It also empowers the farmers, promotes women empowerment and ensures long-term sustainability. The initiative aligns with the vision of "Har Khet Ko Pani + Per Drop More Crop", making irrigation measurable, accountable and financially sustainable.

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