SRINAGAR: An awareness cum training programme on ‘Red Rice’ under HADP Project, (promotion of niche crops in the UT of J&K), was held today at agriculture complex Lalmandi Srinagar. The programme was organised by an advanced research station for saffron and temperate seed spices, SKUAST-K.

Speaking on the occasion, Joint Director Agriculture highlighted the importance of different niche crops including Red Rice. He enumerated the different initiatives by the department in this direction.

He said that our niche crops would play an important role in the economic growth and sustainability of the agriculture sector in the region. He said under the holistic agriculture development program (HADP) government has approved a multi-crore prestigious project to promote the niche crops in the region.

The Jt. Director said the different interventions under HADP project, (Promotion of niche crops) like establishment of nurseries/ seed villages, would generate job opportunities for unemployed youth working in niche sectors.

Earlier head of the research station, Prof. Dr. Bashir Ahmed Allie presented a detailed scenario of different initiatives by the advanced research station, SKUAST- Kashmir for the promotion of niche crops like Red Rice. Officers of the Research station for saffron and temperate seed spices SKUAST-K, officers of agriculture department and a number of red rice farmers participated in the training program.

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