UDHAMPUR: Deputy Commissioner Saloni Rai on Saturday inaugurated the "Didi Ki Rasoi" canteen at Government Degree College Boys Udhampur in the presence of Project Officer DUDA, Udhampur-Reasi Jaffar Abass Batt, Principal of the College Dr. Sanjay Verma. The canteen provides an assortment of home-cooked meals at reasonable prices and is managed by women Self-Help Groups constituted under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana National Urban Livelihoods Mission.

This initiative serves two key objectives: providing a steady source of income for women Self-Help Groups and offering affordable, nutritious meals to college staff, students, visitors and the general public, thereby promoting health and well-being in the district.

While briefing the media, the DC commended the initiative, emphasizing its pivotal role in women's empowerment in the region. She praised Project Officer in launching the canteen, which provides a sustainable source of income and support to Self-Help Group members. The Deputy Commissioner has been a strong advocate for women's empowerment and community development initiatives. Her recognition of the canteen's impact underscores the importance of such initiatives in promoting economic independence and social growth among women.

The canteen, established under DAY-NULM, serves as a platform for Self-Help Group members to showcase their culinary skills and entrepreneurial spirit. By providing a sustainable income stream, the canteen empowers women to take charge of their financial lives, contributing to the district's overall development.

Project Officer stated that this marks the latest installment of the Didi  Ki Rasoi  Canteen initiative launched under DAY-NULM in Udhampur district, with this being the newest addition to the existing two canteens. Previously, canteens had been established  at DC Office Complex Udhampur and Government College for women Udhampur with plans underway to open additional canteens.He expressed his  gratitude to Deputy Commissioner  for her unwavering support and highlighted the canteen's potential to provide sustainable income for self-help group members.

He also thanked the College Principal for providing space to the Self Help Group members in the college premises. The initiative empowers women by providing a livelihood platform, aligning with DAY-NULM's objectives to uplift urban poor communities through sustainable livelihood opportunities.

This "Didi Ki Rasoi" canteen marks a significant milestone towards women's empowerment and self-sufficiency in Udhampur. To mark the occasion, Silver Oak and Sukh Chain trees were planted at the 'Didi Ki Rasoi' Canteen event, symbolizing harmony, prosperity and community well-being. This eco-friendly initiative promotes environmental sustainability, while also highlighting the importance of social responsibility and community service.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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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