KATRA: Reaffirming its commitment to community welfare in the region, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has successfully completed the renovation of ten Government schools out of a total of fifteen taken up under its flagship Social Support Initiative as per the directions of Shri Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT).

The renovated schools include Government High School, Sirla Bhaga; Government Middle Schools at Chack Bhagtha, Panthal, Parthal, Manoon and Kun Kanyala; Government Primary Schools at Hansali, Kalara Chanjute, Upper Sirla, Geeta Nagar, Purana Daroor and Chumbra in Reasi district; besides Government Primary School, Dhanno in Udhampur district.

These schools were identified for renovation and upgradation following a detailed assessment of damages caused by adverse weather conditions. Priority was accorded to institutions where essential infrastructure such as classrooms, boundary walls and sanitation facilities had been severely affected.

The scope of work undertaken included construction of new classrooms, repair of damaged roofs with waterproofing, plastering and painting, structural strengthening, repair and replacement of doors and windows along with provision of electrification and flooring wherever required. Special emphasis was laid on the upgradation and strengthening of sanitation facilities to ensure a safe and hygienic environment for students and staff.

“Earlier, six Government schools had been successfully renovated and handed over to the District Administration, Reasi. With the completion of renovation works on another four schools under its flagship initiative, the Shrine Board has now raised the total count of renovated schools to ten. The remaining five schools are expected to be handed over before the commencement of the next academic session, further strengthening educational infrastructure in the region.”

The Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB, Shri Sachin Kumar Vaishya said that the completion of renovation works in these ten schools under the Social Support Initiative will directly benefit a number of students and staff in the region by providing them with a conducive and improved educational environment. He further underscored that the initiative reflects the Shrine Board’s sustained commitment to social responsibility and service beyond its spiritual mandate.

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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