JAMMU: The 14th Annual Raising Day of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) Jammu was celebrated with enthusiasm today at the headquarters of SDRF 2nd Battalion, Gulshan Ground. A.G. Mir, Director General of Police and Commandant General, Home Guards/Civil Defence & SDRF J&K, was the chief guest on the occasion. While congratulating the officers and personnel of SDRF J&K, he lauded their exemplary service over the past year. He highlighted the force’s outstanding contribution in rescue and relief operations during disasters, stating that SDRF personnel have saved numerous lives in challenging circumstances.

Zahid Naseem Manhas, Commandant SDRF 2nd Battalion Jammu, presented a detailed account of the achievements and operational performance of the battalion during 2025. He highlighted major rescue operations, including the response following the massive cloudburst in village Chashoti in Kishtwar district and rescue efforts in several flash-flood affected areas across the Jammu region during August 2025. He also outlined future plans aimed at further strengthening the capacity and preparedness of SDRF personnel.

Earlier, Lalit Kumar, Dy. SP SDRF 2nd Battalion Jammu welcomed the chief guest, officers from the civil administration and other dignitaries. The programme featured live demonstrations of high-value equipment and a photo exhibition showcasing the commendable work carried out by SDRF. Senior officers present on the occasion included Mohammad Arshad, DIG HG/CD & SDRF Jammu; Ramesh Kumar Angral, DIG and Director HG Kashmir; Mohammad Rafi Giri, SO to Commandant General HG/CD & SDRF J&K, along with other officers of the organization.

On the occasion, the SDRF acknowledged the unwavering support extended during the August 2025 disaster by Ansuya Jamwal, ADC Jammu; Vishavjeet Singh, ADC Kathua; Athar Amin Zargar, then Sub-Divisional Magistrate Marh (Jammu); Prem Singh Chib, ADC Udhampur; Mohammad Muslim Wani, Principal, Boys Model Higher Secondary School Rajouri; and Chief Warden and Deputy Chief Warden of Civil Defence Jammu.

The chief guest presented mementos and commendation certificates to officers from the civil administration. Five SDRF personnel were also felicitated with commendation certificates for their outstanding performance. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Zia-ul-Haq, Dy. SP and Deputy Controller Civil Defence Jammu who expressed gratitude to all guests and participants for making the programme a memorable one.

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