• Directs for achieving set Apprenticeship Target

POONCH: Deputy Commissioner Poonch Ashok Kumar Sharma today chaired a meeting to review the implementation of the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS–PRAGATI) in the district.

The meeting was attended by ADC Tahir Mustafa Malik, PO ICDS, Fareed Kohli, General Manager District Industries Centre, Chief Planning Officer, Assistant Commissioner Development, Chief Education Officer, CEO Municipal Council, officers from JPDCL, AD FCS & CA, Labour Department, Handicrafts/Handloom, Youth Services & Sports, besides other concerned officers.

The DC reviewed the progress towards the set target of 595 apprenticeship engagements. He stressed the need for concerted efforts by all stakeholders to achieve the target. “The main objective of NAPS–PRAGATI is to provide meaningful engagement to youth through practical training, skill development and workplace exposure, thereby enhancing their employability,” he emphasized.

Stress was laid on registration of maximum eligible companies, establishments and units under the scheme and creating adequate apprenticeship opportunities for local youth. 

“The Education and Employment Departments need to take a lead in facilitating the registration of students from Higher Secondary Schools, Government Degree Colleges, Polytechnic College and IITs,” he maintained. 

The DC further stressed that proper training must precede work engagement, directing participating establishments to provide structured, practical and industry-oriented training to apprentices. He called for regular monitoring, proper documentation and timely action to ensure that the apprenticeship programme delivers tangible benefits to the youth.

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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