BANDIPORA: Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, on Monday chaired a meeting with coaching centre owners at the Conference Hall to review measures for curbing drug abuse in the district.

It was informed that 14 registered coaching institutions are functional in the district, providing academic support to students from classes 8th to 12th, including JEE and NEET preparation. Coaching centre owners apprised that CCTV surveillance systems have been installed and are functional at key points including corridors, gates, and classrooms.

During the meeting, concerns were raised that some coaching institutions are increasingly becoming vulnerable spaces for substance abuse due to limited surveillance. The DC stressed the need for strict monitoring, including bag checking and frisking, and underscored that both men and women are involved as users as well as peddlers.

Referring to directives of the Home Department, the DC reiterated that strict action will be taken against any violation. A presentation on drug abuse awareness was also delivered during the session. Padma Shri awardee, Faisal Ali Dar addressed the gathering and highlighted the rising trend of substance abuse, urging coordinated preventive efforts.

Coaching centre operators shared that measures such as regular attendance sharing with parents are being implemented. Suggestions were put forth to ban the sale of cigarettes and tobacco in and around institutes and to involve private skill development institutes in awareness initiatives.

The DC observed that while systems are in place, the desired outcomes are yet to be achieved, emphasizing the need to involve every stakeholder. She directed coaching institutions to conduct regular Parent-Teacher Meetings (PTMs) and stated that Action Taken Reports (ATRs) will be reviewed in next week. Stressing vigilance and accountability, the DC called for a proactive approach, urging stakeholders to “respect all, suspect all” in the collective fight against drug abuse.

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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