POONCH: District Industries Centre (DIC) Poonch and PHDCCI jointly organised a mega awareness-cum-outreach programme under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) initiative of the Government of India today. Deputy Commissioner Poonch Ashok Kumar Sharma was the chief guest on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, the DC emphasised that this is the age of entrepreneurship and urged the youth to actively engage in business ventures. He advised the audience to avail the benefits of various schemes, including Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), PMEGP and Mumkin/Yuva Scheme. He specifically stressed the importance of starting any venture by protecting the idea through Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) filing, which can be expertly mentored and facilitated by the PHDCCI-IPFC Centre of DC-MSME.

The event, held as part of the ongoing RAMP 2025–26 cycle, aimed to sensitise local entrepreneurs, artisans and stakeholders about key interventions designed to strengthen the MSME sector.

In a significant move to bolster the industrial ecosystem of the border district, the DIC Poonch, in collaboration with the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), organised this comprehensive awareness programme. The event was specifically tailored for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), aspiring entrepreneurs, startups and academicians of Poonch.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by General Manager DIC Poonch Naeem ul Nissa. She welcomed the dignitaries and participants, providing an overview of key developmental programmes offered by the Industries and Commerce Department. She highlighted flagship initiatives including the RAMP Scheme, Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) and MSME Design Clinic Scheme, encouraging local businesses to leverage these opportunities for growth and modernisation.

During the technical sessions, the Deputy Director PHDCCI delivered a detailed address on the MSME Innovative Scheme. He elaborated on the crucial services provided by the Intellectual Property Facilitation Centre (IPFC), operating under the DC-MSME in Jammu and Kashmir. Attendees were informed about the centre's role in assisting innovators with the filing of Trademarks, Patents, Designs and Geographical Indications (GI).

Adding depth to the discussion, Expert on IPFC and Business Development Shahid Khan delivered a detailed presentation on the importance of filing for IPR. He explained the processes involved in securing trademarks, patents and designs, illustrating how securing an idea through IPR can drive business growth, provide legal security and offer a competitive edge. The event witnessed good participation and provided a vital platform for interaction between industry experts, government officials and the local business community.

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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