JAMMU: The cultivation of Shiitake Mushrooms (Lentinula Edodes), an edible and medicinal wood-dwelling fungus, is gaining significant momentum in the Jammu region. 1000 Shiitake spawn blocks (ready-to-fruit blocks), were introduced today at Spawn Production Lab in Krishi Bhawan, Jammu, for multi-location trials. These spawn blocks were provided under the Crop Diversification Promotion Project (JICA-ODA) by the Shiitake Cultivation Training Centre at Agriculture University Palampur.

The trials will be conducted across several locations, including the Shiitake lab of the Spawn Production Office in Jammu, Demonstration Cum Training Centre (DCTC) of Jammu Division, and among progressive mushroom growers across the Jammu province.

On this occasion, Director Agriculture Jammu, Arvinder Singh Reen visited the Spawn Production Lab and inspected the Shiitake spawn blocks intended for the trials. He emphasized the importance of this initiative in promoting crop diversification and empowering local farmers to adopt profitable, sustainable agricultural practices.

Director further added that this initiative would provide farmers with the opportunity to engage in year-round mushroom cultivation, thereby ensuring continuous income and enhanced economic returns. The Director stated that this project is especially beneficial for small-scale mushroom growers, as it would generate employment opportunities and support local economies.

Present during the inspection were Spawn Production Officer Verinder Dogra and SMS-III Kewal Krishan Sharma, who played a key role in organizing the trial activities.

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
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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