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

SRINAGAR: Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare, Sarmad Hafeez, today chaired a detailed review meeting at the Civil Secretariat, Srinagar, to assess the performance and progress of departmental schemes and projects in the Kashmir Division. The meeting commenced with a comprehensive presentation by Director Social Welfare Kashmir, Mohammad Akbar Wani, highlighting implementation status of flagship schemes, infrastructural projects and related reforms.

The Commissioner Secretary issued clear directives for timely and transparent implementation of pension coverage and the Marriage Assistance Scheme, ensuring that all eligible beneficiaries receive the benefit without delay. He instructed the officers to maintain high standards of service delivery and empathy towards the public.

A major thrust was laid on enhancing the impact of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, with actionable initiatives focusing on drug demand reduction and social sensitization. The Commissioner Secretary emphasized the role of the department in contributing meaningfully to this national mission. The status of infrastructure development under the UT Capex Budget was reviewed, with instructions for timely utilization of funds and completion of ongoing projects.

During the meeting, the projects under SIPDA (Scheme for Implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act), Old Age Homes at Akura (Anantnag) and Ganderbal and Abhinanda Home were evaluated for operational and infrastructural improvements. Besides, reports on NGO-run Senior Citizen Homes, Minority and Centrally Sponsored Scholarships and Pension Disbursement (NSAP) were also discussed. The officers were directed to expedite the reporting process and resolve any pending cases. Emphasis was laid on the linking of mobile numbers to beneficiary accounts and ensuring last-mile connectivity through Bank Sakhis.

The meeting also took stock of progress on the PM-JVKV (education sector), PMAY-G (VDP preparation in SC village, Anantnag) and the New Beginning (Beggary Home) project in Srinagar. Additionally, attention was given to the Jansugam Portal, court case updates and the procedure for weeding out ineligible cases, ensuring robust transparency mechanisms.

The meeting was attended by Secretary in Social Welfare Department, Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Director Finance, Executive Director J&K Rehabilitation Council, Joint Director Planning, NIC officials, J&K Bank representatives and District Social Welfare Officers of all districts in the Kashmir Division.

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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