In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
  • Policy envisages three-tier waste management framework, regional resource recovery clusters, ₹3,548.7 crore 10-year planning envelope

SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has described the newly notified Jammu & Kashmir Circular Economy Policy, 2026, as “a decisive step towards resource recovery, green growth and ecological sustainability,” marking a shift towards a low-waste, resource-efficient development model tailored toJammu and Kashmir’s diverse geographical and settlement patterns.

The policy envisages a differentiated three-tier governance framework: Circular, Circular+ and Circular++ to align waste management, recycling, resource recovery and wastewater reuse systems with the capacities and requirements of local bodies. It provides for decentralised processing in small and remote areas, hub-and-spoke logistics across intermediate corridors, and advanced circular economy systems in major urban centres, including Jammu and Srinagar.

Recognising the diversity of waste streams across Jammu and Kashmir, the policy covers municipal solid waste, food and wet waste, tourism-related waste, horticulture and agricultural biomass, packaging waste, construction and demolition debris, e-waste and wastewater. It also seeks to promote material recovery through repair, refurbishment and reuse, including resource loops linked to wool and handicrafts.

To address terrain-related and logistical constraints, the roadmap provides for targeted regional value-chain clusters to facilitate the aggregation, transportation, recovery and productive utilisation of materials. These clusters are envisaged around urban material recovery, apple and horticulture biomass, tourism circuits and artisan material loops, linking waste management with local economic activity and livelihood generation.

The policy outlines an indicative 10-year planning envelope of ₹3,548.7 crore, with financing envisaged through convergence with Central schemes, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) mechanisms and user charges, alongside opportunities for Public-Private Partnerships. The framework seeks to support long-term infrastructure development while reducing dependence on recurring government subsidies.

A key objective of the policy is to achieve over 90 per cent urban material recovery through improved source segregation, greater diversion of waste from landfills and the development of sustainable green livelihoods. It also seeks to create opportunities for self-help groups, youth and waste workers by integrating resource recovery into local economic activity.

With its focus on decentralised solutions, regional specialisation and resource efficiency, the Jammu & Kashmir Circular Economy Policy, 2026, provides a long-term framework for strengthening environmental sustainability while supporting more resilient urban and rural development across J&K.

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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