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

KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma today chaired a meeting to review the progress of various schemes being implemented by the Rural Development Department (RDD) in the district.

During the meeting, Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) Akhil Sadotra briefed the chair on the status of works under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). It was informed that 82.96 percent of e-KYC verification has been completed so far. The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned officers to ensure 100 percent completion of e-KYC at the earliest and emphasized proper updation and purification of uploaded data to maintain transparency and accuracy.

The progress achieved in terms of persondays generation, timely payment of wages, conduct of social audits and geo-tagging of assets was also reviewed threadbare. The DC stressed on expediting works and maintaining strict adherence to guidelines.

Reviewing the implementation of Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana - Gramin (PMAY-G), it was informed that the scheme has achieved 95 percent progress in the district. The Deputy Commissioner directed the officers to ensure saturation of targets within the stipulated time frame.

ACP, Ajit Kumar apprised the meeting about the progress under Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA), informing that 44 additional rooms have been completed against the target of 49. The DC called for timely completion of the remaining works.

The meeting also reviewed the implementation of Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), Individual Household Latrines (IHHL) and Natural Resource Management (NRM) works. The Deputy Commissioner underscored the need for close coordination among departments to achieve desired results and ensure holistic development and welfare of the rural population.

The DC called for focused efforts, effective monitoring and inter-departmental synergy to achieve tangible outcomes on the ground. CPO Kathua Ranjeet Thakur, BDOs besides other concerned were also present.

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