RAMBAN: In view of the recent surge in fire incidents in Banihal and its adjoining areas, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Rizwan Asgar on Friday convened a coordination meeting with key stakeholders to devise effective strategies for prevention and management.

The SDM emphasized the importance of identifying suspects involved in causing fire incidents and taking stringent actions to issue deterrence. Stressing the need for a coordinated approach, he urged all stakeholders to collaborate effectively in containing and mitigating fire incidents.

To tackle this issue, a coordination team was constituted comprising manpower from different departments, including Social Forestry, Forest Protection Force, Fire and Emergency Services, and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). Additionally, NGO Banihal and Red Cross volunteers pledged their support by contributing manpower to address this menace.

The SDM also directed Forest Department officials to conduct widespread awareness campaigns among forest dwellers and the local populace to educate them about fire prevention measures and the importance of safeguarding forest resources.

The meeting was attended by Tehsildar Banihal, SHO Banihal, Range Officers from Forest and Social Forestry, representatives from 12 RR, SDRF, Wildlife Department, FPF, NGO heads, and members of local youth clubs.

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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