SAMBA: Marking a major stride in the Omar Abdullah-led Government’s mission to enhanced access to drinking water in Samba town, Minister for Jal Shakti, Javed Ahmed Rana, today laid the foundation stone for Water Supply Scheme (WSS) Samba Town. The project for augmentation of water supply in Samba Town is being taken up under AMRUT 2.0. The cost of the project is estimated at 594 crore, targeting 530 Functional Household Tap Water Connections.

The scheme once completed will ensure safe drinking water for all 17 wards thereby benefiting 30,000+ citizens. While laying the foundation stone, Rana reiterated government’s commitment to work towards a resilient, sustainable and equitable urban infrastructure. “Water Supply Scheme is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for the local residents, ensuring reliable and safe drinking water. This project is not just about improving the water supply but about ensuring a healthier, more dignified life for every resident of Samba,” Rana said while highlighting the Government’s broader goal of sustainable urban development under AMRUT 2.0.

Later, Jal Shakti Minister also inaugurated six Water Supply Schemes in rural Samba. The five projects sanctioned under the Jal Jeevan Mission and one under UT CAPEX Budget, are critical infrastructure initiatives aimed at addressing the present and future drinking water needs of several villages in Samba.

The Water Supply Schemes included Devaka, Daboh, Gangeri Jamoda, Sandhi-II Sangwal-II and Dabri. With a sanctioned cost of 1775 lakh, the schemes are designed to significantly bolster water security and resilience in these villages. Speaking at the inauguration, the Minister reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of Omar led government to provide safe and adequate drinking water to every rural household. He noted that projects like these are essential lifelines for communities, particularly in water-stressed and underserved areas.

The Minister commended the officers of Jal Shakti Department and the implementing agencies for their coordinated efforts in executioon of these projects. He emphasized that the schemes align closely with the vision of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to create climate-resilient rural infrastructure and ensure inclusive development at the grassroots level.

Key components under the schemes included sump tanks, Ground Service Reservoirs (GSRs) of varying capacities, comprehensive network of rising mains and distribution pipelines, rapid sand filtration plants, installation of advanced pumping machinery and erection of an Electric Sub Station to ensure uninterrupted water supply. A significant aspect of the project is the expansion of household-level water access. Under the schemes, 673 Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs) have been provided to bolster water supply in the area.

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