JAMMU: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), Transport, Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, inaugurated a plantation drive in Hiranagar the other day. The event, held in collaboration with the Forest Department, witnessed wide participation from students, youth volunteers, environmentalists, government officials and locals.

MLA Hiranagar and several prominent local dignitaries were also present on the occasion. Speaking at the event, the Minister said that the environmental health of Jammu and Kashmir, especially areas like Hiranagar with a delicate ecological balance, requires continuous and committed efforts from all stakeholders. He emphasized that large-scale afforestation and community involvement are key towards safeguarding the region against deforestation, soil erosion, water scarcity and climate change.

" Forests are not merely natural assets; they are lifelines that sustain biodiversity, conserve water and purify the air. In the face of climate change and increasing environmental threats, it is our moral duty to plant more trees and protect what nature has blessed us with,ā€ said the Minister.

The Minister also reiterated his government’s commitment to green initiatives, noting that various departments under his charge, particularly Youth Services & Sports, will be directed to actively promote the environmental awareness and eco-friendly practices among the youth. He stressed the need to inculcate the values of environmental stewardship through school and college-level programs, including nature camps, eco-clubs and green volunteering activities.

Satish Sharma appreciated the efforts of the Forest Department and local administration for organizing the plantation campaign and called for such drives to be made a seasonal movement rather than a one-time activity. MLA Hiranagar, while addressing the gathering, assured full cooperation in mobilizing the local resources for long-term ecological restoration.

Several community leaders also shared their views and pledged to support future plantation efforts in the area. SDM Hirangar, RTO Kathua, District Youth Services Sports Officer and senior officers of forest department and other allied departments were also present.

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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