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

SRINAGAR: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary today chaired a meeting of the Sub-Committee constituted to examine the issues related to Gair Mumkin Khads in Jammu and Kashmir.

The meeting, held at the Civil Secretariat Srinagar, was attended by Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana and Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Elections, Javid Ahmad Dar, who are members of the Sub-Committee.

The Deputy Chief Minister stressed the need for seeking public suggestions before finalizing the committee’s report through designated offices. He directed on designating a nodal officer from the Civil Secretariat for easy access for submission of suggestions by the general public. He directed that the report be submitted in a time-bound manner, ensuring that the genuine public concerns are addressed in a fair and legitimate way.

Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department, Shaleen Kabra, briefed the Sub-Committee on the present status of Gair Mumkin Khads and the ongoing process of segregation.

Speaking during the meeting, the Deputy Chief Minister emphasized the need for pragmatic and people-centric decisions to ensure amicable resolution of issues faced by the public. He said that policy interventions must maintain a balance between the environmental protection and safeguarding the livelihoods and property rights of citizens.

The Committee directed for constitution of a technical team for proper segregation of Khads and submission of accurate details. Directions were issued for identification of chronic problem areas to address recurring public issues effectively.

Speaking on the occasion, Javed Ahmad Rana stressed the importance of adopting a balanced and environmentally sustainable approach while addressing the issues related to Gair Mumkin Khads. He emphasized the need for coordinated efforts among the departments to safeguard the ecological interests while ensuring relief to the affected population.

Agriculture Minister highlighted the importance of transparency, public participation and timely redressal of grievances. The Sub-Committee discussed in detail the existing status of Gair Mumkin Khads, Daryas and Nallahs, along with related concerns, with the objective of providing relief to the general public wherever required.

The members of the Sub-Committee also put forth various suggestions and highlighted several public concerns requiring urgent attention. Among others, the meeting was attended by Secretary Revenue Department Rajiv Rajan, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, Commissioner Jammu Municipal Corporation Dr. Devansh Yadav, VC JDA, Chief Engineer I&FC Jammu, Rupesh Kumar and other senior officers of the concerned departments.

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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