BUDGAM: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Budgam organized a collaborative programme in association with the Spices Board Regional Office, Srinagar, to mark the 39th Foundation Day of the Spices Board and to observe the National Campaign on “Clean and Safe Spices.” The event focused on quality improvement in spice production and post-harvest management.

During the event, Ashutosh Gautam, Scientist from the Spices Board in Srinagar, conducted an extensive discussion on the national and international standards applicable to spices, including the quality regulations of USFDA, ASTA, and EU, along with Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and Good Hygiene Practices (GHP). He also brought attention to the FSSAI standards relevant to the domestic market and elaborated on the 8th edition of the National Program for Organic Production (NPOP) concerning organic spices.

The technical session included scientific discussions from KVK scientists, covering a broad spectrum of topics such as scientific production techniques, pest and disease management, post-harvest processes.

Prof. & Head, KVK Budgam, Dr. Bilal A. Lone emphasized that ensuring clean and safe spice production is essential not only for consumer health but also for enhancing the market competitiveness of farmers. He highlighted that quality improvement must begin at the farm level through the adoption of good agricultural practices, scientific post-harvest handlingand proper storage.

He appreciated the collaborative efforts of the Spices Board Regional Office, Srinagar, and stated that such joint programmes strengthen the extension network and build the capacity of farmers to meet national and export standards. He further assured that KVK Budgam will continue to organize need-based training programmes to promote quality, value additionand sustainable spice production in the district.

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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