BANDIPORA: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today visited the Kashmir Forest Training School (KFTS) at Chiternar in Bandipora district to assess functioning of the institution and took stock of infrastructure requirements. During his tour, the Minister held a detailed review of the existing training modules, staff strength, hostel facilities and overall infrastructure of the school. He emphasized the need for modernization and capacity enhancement to ensure quality training for forest personnel.

The Minister assured that necessary upgradation of School’s infrastructure shall be undertaken shortly for which a comprehensive upgradation proposal has already been submitted to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). He assured that the matter will be vigorously followed up for early approval and funding.

Later, the Minister interacted with several public delegations from the area who apprised him of various issues and developmental concerns related to water supply (Jal Shakti), tribal welfare and forest-related matters. A major concern raised by the locals was the increasing monkey menace, which has been affecting the agriculture and safety in the region.

Taking serious note of the concerns, the Minister issued on-spot directions to the concerned departments to prepare an action plan for addressing the monkey menace and improving service delivery in the sectors highlighted.

The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment towards ensuring sustainable development and people-centric governance, especially in remote and ecologically sensitive areas. He was accompanied by MLA Gurez, Nazir Ahmed Gurezi, who also engaged with the local stakeholders and officials during the visit.

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