SAMBA: Principal Secretary, Culture and School Education, Suresh Kumar Gupta, today visited District Library located within the historic Samba Fort, and reviewed the modernization and facility enhancement works. He was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Samba, Rajesh Sharma; Director Archives, Archaeology, and Museums, K.K. Sidha; CEO; XEN PWD; officials from the Municipal Committee and other officers.

During the inspection, the Principal Secretary toured key areas of the library including reading rooms, senior citizens’ sections and designated spaces for children and students. He engaged closely with the library staff and patrons to understand their needs, particularly regarding library resources and facility maintenance.

A significant focus of the visit was  review of Phase 1 works in Samba Fort, centred on modernising the library while preserving Jammu and Kashmir's rich cultural heritage. The Principal Secretary emphasised the importance of maintaining high standards in safeguarding historic manuscripts and resources as part of the library’s restoration and modernisation projects.

He highlighted the library’s critical role in cultural preservation while stressing the need to retain the fort's historic character while enhancing the District Library to meet evolving community needs. He proposed a phased redevelopment plan that includes constructing a new building to improve visitor experiences and further support the educational and cultural aspirations of Samba’s residents.

He assured his continued support for the library’s development, pledging commitment to the timely completion of restoration and modernization efforts that honor and sustain the region’s invaluable heritage. The Principal Secretary also took an overview of the education sector in the district especially the deficiency of Teaching faculty at various levels. He further issued directions to the Chief education Officer Samba to ensure quality education is provided in government schools preparing these students to excel in competitive exams.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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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