JAMMU: Minister for Social Welfare, Sakeena Itoo, today said that 1190 Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) are functional in Srinagar district with 152 AWCs functioning in Central Shalteng Constituency. The Minister informed this in reply to a question raised by Legislator Tariq Hameed Karra regarding Social Welfare schemes in the Legislative Assembly.

She said that at present there is no proposal under consideration of the government regarding opening/establishment of new Anganwadi Centres in Central Shalteng Constituency as the existing centres are catering to the needs of the target beneficiaries of the said Constituency. The Minister further said that the that any proposal regarding opening of new AWCs that fulfil the criteria would be examined for submission to the Government of India.

She also informed that the monthly honorarium to Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs) is in consonance with the honorarium provided to AWWs and AWHs at the National level on the pattern of 90:10. She added that the Government of J&K is already giving additional state share to AWWs and AWHs and the matter would be taken up with Central Government to examine enhancement of honorarium subject to availability of resources.

Giving details about the beneficiaries covered under social welfare schemes in Central Shalteng constituency, the Social Welfare Minister informed that 6756 beneficiaries are covered under Old Age Pension, Widow Pension and various other Centrally and UT sponsored welfare schemes in the constituency.

She apprised that the old age pension under the Integrated Social Security Scheme (ISSS) and National Social Assistance Programme has recently been enhanced along with other components and the persons aged below 60 years are paid Rs.1250/- per month, between 60–79 years Rs 1500/- per month and 80 years and above @ Rs 2000/- per month. Legislators, Balwant Singh Mankotia and Qaysir Jamsheed Lone raised supplementary questions.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇