• Supplementary MGNREGA plan being formulated to address rain damages  

KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma today chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the progress of Rural Development Department sector works being executed under the Capex Budget 2025-26. The meeting was held in the Conference Hall of the DC Office Complex.

At the outset, the meeting discussed in detail the tendering process, pace of according approvals and field-level issues hindering the smooth execution of works. It was informed that out of the 1551 proposed works in the RDD sector for the current fiscal, approval has been accorded to 1430 works, while 61 works remain pending due to procedural and technical reasons.

The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned field functionaries to expedite the removal of bottlenecks in the tendering process to avoid delay in the execution. He emphasized to take up feasible works to ensure optimal utilization of funds and timely completion of projects. He further directed the field staff to promptly resolve nomenclature-related issues, in consultation with the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) without any further delay.

Highlighting the importance of close monitoring at the grassroots level, the DC instructed the Block Development Officers (BDOs) to ensure regular supervision of the field staff for efficient implementation and quality of works. He asked the officers to focus on achieving 100% physical and financial progress within the stipulated timelines to maximize developmental outcomes for the rural population.

During the meeting, the Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) apprised the DC that BDOs have been directed to prepare and submit supplementary MGNREGA plans for repair of damages caused to infrastructure due to the recent incessant rains, ensuring timely redressal of public grievances.

The meeting also discussed the importance of synergy among different wings of the department and the PRIs for better planning and execution of projects. The DC called for enhanced coordination and timely reporting to ensure that development initiatives reach the targeted beneficiaries without delay.

ADDC Kathua, Surinder Mohan; Chief Planning Officer Ranjit Thakur; ACD Akhil Sadotra; Executive Engineer, REW and field functionaries of the RDD sector attended the meeting.

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