• During the meeting, Itoo showcased J&K’s achievements under the scheme, including infrastructure development and skill training for over 1,700 students, while advocating for enhanced grassroots implementation and collaboration.

NEW DELHI: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, attended the Central Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting of Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY) here today.

The CAC meeting was held under the Chairmanship of Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar to review progress on the scheme and formulate strategies aimed at the socio-economic upliftment of Scheduled Castes (SC) communities across India.

During the meeting, the CAC held extensive discussions on three components of the scheme i.e; Adarsh Gram, Grant-in-aid and Hostel component. The committee further deliberated on strategies to expand the scheme’s reach to larger SC population and enhance its effectiveness. Emphasis was placed on strengthening collaboration at the States and District levels, fostering greater community participation, ensuring timely project implementation, and monitoring the outcomes to achieve maximum impact.

While presenting the status of Jammu and Kashmir in the meeting, Sakeena Itoo highlighted that 91 CSCs, 4993 Solar lights, 63 Smart classes, 21 Gyms ( Open/ Indoor), 11 Smart Libraries and other infrastructure has been established at various locations across J&K under the scheme. She also informed that 1715 students were trained under various trades like Data Entry Operator, Beauty Therapist, CCTV and Solar Panel Installation Technicians under this scheme.

The Minister, during the meeting, underscored the importance of this scheme for enhancing the livelihood, education and empowerment opportunities for SC communities. She emphasised the need for effective grassroots implementation, ensuring that the benefits of the scheme reach the intended beneficiaries in a transparent and efficient manner.

Additional Secretary, Social Welfare department J&K Government and Nodal Officer coordination PM-AJAY, Dr. Rehana Akhter Bijli  also accompanied the Minister for the meeting.

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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