KATRA:  In a significant step towards promoting physical fitness and nurturing a sports culture among students, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) today distributed sports equipment to nine Government Schools in Reasi district. This initiative follows the successful renovation and restoration of several Government schools, further strengthening the Board’s commitment to holistic development in the region.

The beneficiary institutions included Government Primary School Upper Sirla, Mehari, Government Middle School Sarna, Arli, Kundrorian, Government High School Bhaga, Katra, Dhanori and Government Higher Secondary School, Katra. The equipment provided comprised footballs, volleyballs, basketballs, badminton rackets, shuttlecocks, table tennis kits and indoor games which were formally handed over to school authorities for student use.

Shri Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB, emphasized that under the visionary guidance of Shri Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, J&K UT), the Board remains committed to empowering youth and nurturing sporting excellence in the region. He affirmed that this initiative will benefit hundreds of children in rural and semi-urban schools, many of whom have limited access to proper sports infrastructure. He underscored that while infrastructure development is essential, an equal focus on sports and extracurricular activities plays a crucial role in shaping disciplined, and healthy students.

Teachers present at the event expressed gratitude, highlighting that government schools in remote areas often face challenges due to inadequate sports resources. They affirmed that this support will enable regular sports activities, strengthen physical education programs and motivate students to actively participate in games and competitions.

Noteworthy that the Shrine Board has consistently undertaken community-oriented initiatives in the fields of education, healthcare, environmental sustainability and regional development. This latest effort further underscores its unwavering commitment to inclusive growth and the holistic well-being of society, with a special focus on the younger generation in Reasi district. The distribution ceremony was attended by officers of the Shrine Board, coaches from the SMVD Sports Complex and a large gathering of teachers and students.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇