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KATHUA: As part of Seva Parv 2026, a series of cleanliness, environmental awareness and community participation activities were organised across District Kathua today, with government departments, field functionaries and citizens coming together to strengthen the message of cleanliness, environmental responsibility and public service.

Swachhata drives were conducted at Government Offices in Bani, Horticulture Office Complex Kathua, the premises of the AMO Office Kathua, ADC Office Basohli and other government offices, wherein officials and employees actively participated in cleaning their respective premises and surrounding areas. The drives highlighted the importance of maintaining clean public institutions and making cleanliness a regular collective responsibility.

In Billawar, cleanliness activities were carried out at different locations under the supervision of ADC Billawar Vishavjeet Singh. The ADC also joined the Swachhata drive in the town along with local residents, reinforcing the spirit of Janbhagidhari and collective responsibility towards a cleaner and healthier environment. During the drive, shops were also inspected for the use of banned single-use plastic, while shopkeepers were sensitized to adopt environment-friendly alternatives. Similar cleanliness activities were organised in the Billawar Forest Division as part of the Seva Parv campaign.

As part of the environmental component of Seva Parv 2026, JKPCC Kathua conducted an awareness and enforcement drive against banned polythene and single-use plastic in the market areas of Shiv Nagar, Kathua, as per the directions of the Deputy Commissioner Kathua. Citizens and shopkeepers were sensitized about the harmful environmental impact of banned polythene and SUP and encouraged to switch to sustainable alternatives. During the drive, approximately 6.5 kg of banned polythene below 120 microns and 200 grams of single-use plastic were seized.

A Plastic-Free Campaign was also organised at FPF Gamma Unit J3, Kathua, as part of Swachhta Pakhwada. Employees actively participated in the cleanliness drive and collected plastic waste from the premises and adjoining areas. The campaign focused on reducing plastic use, promoting responsible waste management and creating greater awareness about environmental protection.

The book donation initiative undertaken under Seva Parv also received an encouraging response from the public, with a large number of books being contributed for distribution among needy persons. The initiative reflects the administration's resolve to facilitate access to educational resources for those who need them and promote the culture of sharing and community service. The response to the campaign has further strengthened the administration's efforts, including those led by ADC Kathua Mahima Madan to ensure that donated books reach deserving beneficiaries and are put to meaningful use.

The day's activities reflected the broader objective of Seva Parv 2026—to take the spirit of public service beyond government offices and foster active participation of citizens in cleanliness, environmental protection, social responsibility and community welfare.

The District Administration called upon departments, institutions and the public to sustain these initiatives and make Swachhata, environmental responsibility and community service a continuous collective effort.

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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