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

BANDIPORA:  District Magistrate (DM) Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib today chaired a meeting of the District-Level NCORD Committee to review action taken against drug abuse and illegal activities in the district here at the Mini Secretariat Bandipora.

At the outset, the committee was briefed about the directions of the Chief Secretary, J&K UT, with focus on tackling drug hotspots and strengthening monitoring. The DM stressed that commercial-level cases need more attention and urged departments to ensure strict enforcement.

During the meeting, Senior Superintendent of Police, Ajaz Ahmad Zargar gave a presentation on their recent actions, including PIT NDPS detentions, decline in FIRs in hotspots, and registration of new cases. The DM urged the SSP to submit a list of vulnerable areas so that CCTV installation can be increased there.

On the occasion, the Excise Department informed about destruction of poppy and wild cannabis, daily nakas, inspections, and awareness programmes like nukad nataks, painting and essay competitions. The DM directed the department to further intensify awareness activities.

The Drug Control Department briefed about inspections, installation of CCTV and computer billing systems, issued notices, suspended licences, and checks on courier services. During the meeting, Deputy Director Prosecution presented details of pending NDPS trials, acquittals, and bail cases. The ARTO Bandipora informed about suspension of driving licences, show-cause notices, and ongoing awareness camps.

On the occasion, representative from the Addiction Treatment Facility Bandipora shared details of registrations. The DM directed the CMO Bandipora to start making the Addiction Treatment Facility function as an IPD unit and to provide a list of all doctors with their names and designations.

During the meeting, the Social Welfare Department briefed about NMBA activities including street plays, yoga camps, painting competitions, and awareness drives. The Education Department and GDCs also shared updates regarding the activities conducted under NMBA.

Speaking on the occasion, the DM stressed that CCTV installation at hotspots, monthly NCORD meetings, and strong coordination among departments are essential for effective control and awareness. She directed all officers to continue working actively and responsibly to keep Bandipora drug-free.

Among others, the meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Zaffar Husson Shawl; Assistant Commissioner Development Bandipora; Deputy Chief Education Officer Bandipora; District Information Officer Bandipora; Assistant Drug Controller Bandipora; and other concerned officers.

While the Senior Superintendent of Police Bandipora, Ajaz Ahmad Zargar; Secretary, District Legal Services Authority Bandipora; Deputy Director Prosecution Bandipora; Sub Divisional Magistrate Sumbal/Gurez; Chief Medical Officer Bandipora; Principals of GDC Bandipora, Sumbal, Ajas, Hajin, Gurez and Tulail; Medical Superintendent District Hospital Bandipora; District Social Welfare Officer Bandipora and other concerned officers attended the meeting through virtual mode.

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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