• Focus laid on Accelerated development, Village Action Plans & community empowerment in border areas

BARAMULLA: To streamline the implementation of the Vibrant Villages Programme Phase-II (VVP-II) in the border areas of Baramulla district, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, chaired a day-long workshop today at the Meeting Hall in Uri. Vibrant Villages programme is an initiative of the Government of India, aimed to ensure sustainable and inclusive development in remote and border villages through focused interventions in infrastructure, connectivity, livelihood opportunities, and essential public services.

At the outset, Joint Director Planning Baramulla provided a detailed powerpoint presentation outlining the status and strategic components of VVP-II. Speaking during the meeting, DC underscored the importance of interdepartmental convergence and urged all departments to execute the programme in mission mode to ensure timely and impactful results.

Sherpa highlighted that the four core focus areas viz. road connectivity, telecom connectivity, television connectivity and electrification must be pursued with utmost priority to enhance the quality of life in the identified villages. DC further instructed the designated nodal officers for all 18 identified villages to formulate a Village Action Plans under VVP-II, with clearly defined timelines and community-focused interventions, and a firm deadline of 9th June for the finalization of these plans.

DC also laid emphasis on livelihood generation, financial inclusion, and the promotion of solar-based energy solutions. He directed the concerned departments to initiate skill development initiatives under schemes like PM Vishwakarma Yojana and to actively explore tourism potential in the region.

Meanwhile, DC announced that a mega festival will be organized at Shahdara, Uri, as part of the outreach and cultural engagement component of the programme which will serve as a vibrant platform to showcase local culture, talent, and government welfare schemes aimed at empowering border communities. The workshop was attended by Joint Director Planning, Sub Divisional Magistrate Uri, Assistant Commissioner Development and nodal officers besides other officers and officials.

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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