The Survival Fight of JK Monitor: For 16 years, JK Monitor has chronicled Jammu and Kashmir with integrity. Since 2010, I have steered its newsroom alongside our visionary Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan (IIT Kharagpur alumnus, University of Maryland Ph.D.). His tragic demise in October 2026 left a severe financial and operational vacuum. Without urgent support, our 24/7 news portal risks permanently shutting down after November 2026, remaining only as a static digital archive. We appeal to well-wishers to extend a helping hand to keep our active newsroom alive. Support Us: WhatsApp: +91-9906103001 | Email: journalistajmerwani@gmail.com

RAMBAN: The Assistant Director, Handicrafts Department Ramban, Tarun Sudan conducted an inspection of two Karkhandar units recently allotted under the department’s flagship skill development initiative. A Crewel Embroidery unit has been allotted to Bisma Jan, while a Sozni Embroidery unit has been sanctioned to Sameda Akhter. The inspection focused on evaluating training progress, artisan participation, and the availability of infrastructure at both sites.

The Karkhandar Scheme is a key initiative of the Department of Handicrafts & Handloom, designed to revive traditional crafts by providing advanced skill training and capacity building at the grassroots level. Under the scheme, experienced master artisans mentor aspiring craftspersons within production units, ensuring practical, market-driven skill development and promoting self-employment.

During the visit, the Assistant Director also reviewed entries submitted for the upcoming UT Level Handicrafts Awards – 2025, assessing the quality, creativity, and innovation demonstrated by participating artisans.

Artisans were also made aware of various departmental schemes, including the Credit Card Scheme—which offers easy credit access to artisans—and the Financial Support Scheme, along with central welfare initiatives such as PMJJBY (Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana), PMSBY (Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana), and the Revised Education Scheme for Artisans, all aimed at supporting artisans through financial aid, insurance coverage, and educational opportunities. The department reiterated its commitment to the welfare of artisans and the preservation and promotion of J&K’s rich handicraft legacy.

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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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