JAMMU: As part of the ongoing SPARSH Leprosy Awareness Fortnight campaign observed across District Jammu, a series of awareness programmes were organised today to educate the public about leprosy, its symptoms, prevention and the importance of early treatment under the National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP). The campaign is being supervised by Chief Medical Officer Jammu Dr Harbaksh Singh and Zonal Leprosy Officer Dr Sushma Mattoo.

As a key activity of the day, the Cultural Unit of the Department of Information & Public Relations (DIPR) Jammu presented a Nukkad Natak at Maharaja Hari Singh Government Model Higher Secondary Boys School, Akhnoor. The street play effectively communicated vital messages regarding early detection, availability of free treatment and the removal of stigma surrounding leprosy, drawing keen interest from students and staff.

The District Jammu Leprosy Control Unit, led by Medical Officer Leprosy Dr Deepika Dewan along with PMAs Krishan Kumar and Subash Chowdhary, conducted an extensive awareness session for school staff, students and healthcare personnel. They distributed pamphlets and posters detailing the signs and symptoms of leprosy, the importance of timely reporting and the free treatment available through government health facilities. Dr Deepika Dewan and Dr Jahan Ara emphasised the need for community participation in eliminating stigma and promoting early medical consultation.

The event was supported by the Zonal Leprosy Office, Directorate of Health Services Jammu, to strengthen public awareness during the SPARSH campaign. The programme was conducted under the direction of Joint Director Information Deepak Dubey and the supervision of Cultural Officer Mohit Sharma.

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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