RAMBAN: The Mushroom Farming Training Course 2026–27, organised by 23 Rashtriya Rifles under Op Sadbhavana in coordination with the District Agriculture Department, concluded successfully here today. The initiative aimed at imparting practical skills to local youth enabling them to gain sustainable livelihood through mushroom cultivation.

Major Pankaj Gupta of 23 Rashtriya Rifles, while addressing the participants, appreciated the coordinated efforts of the Army and the Agriculture Department in organising the training programme.  He highlighted the Indian Army’s commitment to the welfare and socio-economic development of local communities, particularly those residing in rural and remote areas.

He emphasised that skill-oriented initiatives play a vital role in empowering people and encouraging self-reliance. He also appreciated the technical support extended by the Agriculture Department  and expressed hope that such collaborative efforts would continue to contribute towards rural development and livelihood generation in the district.

Chief Agriculture Officer Dr. Vinay Kumar Jandial highlighted the potential of mushroom cultivation as a viable subsidiary occupation, particularly for farmers and rural households with limited land resources. He said that mushroom farming requires comparatively less space and offers opportunities for additional income and employment, especially for women and unemployed youth. He encouraged the trainees to apply the techniques learned during the course and avail themselves of the technical guidance and departmental support available for promoting mushroom cultivation.

The training programme was coordinated by District Subject Matter Specialist (SMS) Jyoti Prakash and Junior Agriculture Extension Officer (JAEO) Vikram Bandu, in coordination with Subedar Bhoj Raj Singh of 23 Rashtriya Rifles. The technical sessions focused on imparting practical knowledge and essential skills for scientific and successful mushroom cultivation.

District Agriculture Officer Kuldeep Bassan was also associated with the programme and highlighted the importance of promoting scientific farming practices and livelihood-oriented agricultural activities to strengthen the rural economy. At the end, certificates were given away to the participants in recognition of successful completion of the training.

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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