In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

JAMMU: Minister for Jal Shakti, Javed Ahmed Rana, today informed the Legislative Assembly that  49 operational Water Supply Schemes (WSSs) are  catering to the water requirements of 50 villages in Lolab and Machil area. He was replying to a question raised by MLA, Qaysar Jamshaid Lone. The Minister apprised that the water supply schemes are being regularly maintained which continue to meet the drinking water needs of the population.

The Jal Shakti Minister further stated that to address water scarcity in deficit areas, the government has established 16 new borewell/dugwell sources and 17 new spring/nallah sources under various ongoing programmes over the last three years He added that four more sources are currently under development, covering 22 new Water Supply Schemes (WSS) under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) and UT CAPEX. Out of these, 12 schemes are already operational, while the remaining are at various stages of implementation.

He added that upon completion, these schemes will substantially strengthen the water supply infrastructure and ensure sustainable access to safe drinking water as per the prescribed standards (55 LPCD). The Minister further said that the department is taking necessary measures to address the drinking water shortage areas through tanker service, whenever and wherever needed.

Legislators  Qaysar Jamshaid Lone, Saifullah Mir and Javid Hassan Baig raised supplementaries on the question. Qaysar Jamshaid Lone highlighted that significant improvements have been achieved due to the timely intervention of the Minister but stressed that the existing network requires urgent upgradation to meet the growing demands.

Responding to the concerns, Javed Ahmed Rana acknowledged that challenges persist and noted that the situation has been further compounded by drought conditions and other natural disasters. He thanked the Chief Minister for his continued support and stated that efforts are underway to address the constraints. The Minister further assured that issues faced by the rural and hilly areas would be examined on priority, with necessary directions to be issued accordingly.

The Minister also said that directions have been issued to the concerned officers for timely utilization of resources so that sanctioned funds are not surrendered. He emphasized that Legislators  who raised the supplementaries,  must actively monitor the implementation of works to ensure timely and effective execution.

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
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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