SAMBA: Commissioner Secretary, Forests, Ecology and Environment, Sheetal Nanda, today visited Chak Dulma and Chak Lala villages in Block Rajpura as part of the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP) Phase-II, underscoring the government’s commitment to holistic and inclusive rural development in border areas of the Union Territory.

During the visit, the Commissioner Secretary was  briefed on the status of various projects being undertaken in the villages under the Vibrant Villages Programme. Among others present on the occasion were Additional District Development Commissioner, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Company Commander BSF, district officers and villagers.

It was informed during the briefing that all 16 identified villages under the programme have been assigned Nodal Officers and gap analysis exercises have been duly completed with projects formally proposed for each village. In Chak Dulma, 11 projects have been proposed, while 9 projects have been put forward for Chak Lala, covering a range of developmental interventions to address the infrastructure and livelihood needs of the local population.

Local inhabitants of both the villages expressed their views on the proposed projects and placed their grievances before the senior officer, particularly pertaining to the agrarian economy and departmental functioning in the villages. Proposals for a playground and a veterinary hospital also figured prominently among the demands raised by the local residents.

The Commissioner Secretary listened attentively to the requests of the villagers and assured them of an inclusive, multi-stakeholder approach to ensure that the villages are equipped with people-centric infrastructure, especially for the youth. This will facilitate affirmative action for building a productive and drug-free society in the border areas of Samba district.

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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