POONCH: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today conducted extensive tour of Haveli Constituency of Poonch district and inaugurated several public infrastructure projects besides laying foundation stone for multiple developmental projects. During the visit, the Minister inaugurated Outpatient Department (OPD) block at Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Mandi and also laid foundation stone for Dialysis Unit at the hospital.

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the Health Minister said that the operationalization of OPD at SDH Mandi is a critical step in bolstering healthcare facilities in this remote area. She added that this OPD block, equipped with modern diagnostic and consultation facilities, is expected to ease the patient load on the existing infrastructure and enhance service delivery for residents of Mandi and adjacent areas.

“This new OPD block is a testament to our commitment towards improving the healthcare delivery in underserved regions. Timely and accessible medical care is not a luxury but a necessity and our government will ensure that no one is left behind”, the Minister stated.

Reiterating the Government’s commitment to grassroots level development, the Minister said that the Omar Abdullah led government is focusing on strengthening grassroots development and improving public health infrastructure across J&K. She added that Dialysis facilities are being established at all Sub District Hospitals of J&K so that public get better healthcare facilities near their vicinities.

Later, the Minister laid foundation stone for Government Degree College Mandi. Addressing a mammoth gathering after inauguration, the Minister highlighted that with the efforts of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, the long pending demand of the public has been fulfilled. She expressed gratitude to Chief Minister for timely release of funds which will lead to timely construction of college.

The Minister further said that the College will lead to significant development in the field of higher education in this region. She also praised the MLA Haveli, Ajaz Ahmed Jan and Deputy Commissioner Poonch, Vikas Kundal for resolving the land dispute issue of GDC Mandi. During the visit, the Minister also interacted with the locals and took stock of their genuine issues and grievances. She received feedback on several ongoing projects and also various social sector schemes.

While interacting with the locals, the Minister said, “Our aim is to ensure inclusive growth of J&K, where development reaches the last mile,”. She assured the public delegations that their genuine issues will be addressed promptly. MLA Haveli, Ajaz Ahmed Jan; Deputy Commissioner Poonch, Vikas Kundal; Director Social Welfare Jammu; Director Health Services Jammu; Director School Education Jammu; Director Colleges; other senior officers of district administration and locals were also present on the occasions.

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