POONCH: District Development Commissioner Poonch, Vikas Kundal conducted an extensive tour of Marhote block in Surankote subdivision, where he presided over a public outreach program at EidGah. The event provided a platform for locals, including BDC members and Ex-Sarpanches, to voice their concerns and discuss pressing issues affecting the region.

During the program, various issues were raised including completion of the road from Mori Kassana to Sangla, maintenance of the road from Dhundak Bridge to Mahrote and completion of the Dodi road. Community members also highlighted the necessity for a new community hall near Eid Gah, upgrading the Primary Health Centre (PHC) Marhote and addressing shortage of staff at High School Nadyali and Middle School Mori Kassana.

The DDC emphasised the importance of youth engagement under the PM YUVA scheme, urging the concerned authorities to ensure youth enrollment in the upcoming survey. He directed the Chief Education Officer to investigate the issue of non-punctual teachers in Hari Marhote and take appropriate action.

DDC instructed ExEn to identify left out areas of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in panchayats Kallar Kattal,, Upper Marhote, Hari Marhote and include them in the scheme. He called for expedited work on the Dodi road and directed the SDM Surankote to assess compensation at the site.

Addressing the community's concerns about drug abuse, the Deputy Commissioner urged senior citizens to participate in the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan, fostering youth involvement in sports and ethical activities. He also directed inspections of pharmaceutical shops to ensure compliance with E-billing regulations.

The DDC reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the proper functionality of the 108 Ambulance service and maintaining the road from Dhundak Bridge to Marhote. He announced plans to take up the upgradation of PHC Marhote with the health department.

DDC urged citizens to complete the e-KYC process for their ration cards to facilitate the efficient distribution of essential supplies. The event was attended by Ex-BDC Hari, Haji Nazeer, Ex-Sarpanches, CMO, CEO, AD, DSWO, POICDS, DIO, SDM Skt., Tehsildar, skt. Xen JPDCL, PDD, PWD, ACD and various concerned officials/officers.

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