POONCH: District Development Commissioner (DDC) Poonch, Ashok Kumar Sharma today chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the progress of the Vibrant Village Programme-II, an ambitious initiative of the Ministry of Home Affairs aimed at transforming the socio-economic landscape of border areas.

During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on achieving full saturation across key thematic areas identified under the programme. The DDC emphasized the need to bridge critical gaps in essential sectors, including network connectivity, road accessibility and household electrification in border villages.

Stressing accountability and timely execution, the District Development Commissioner directed all concerned departments to upload details of ongoing works on the designated portal for effective monitoring and transparency. He also underscored the importance of promoting sustainable livelihood opportunities in border villages under public livelihood initiatives.

The DDC further instructed departments to conduct comprehensive gap analyses across all thematic areas and submit detailed reports to the DC Office for necessary action. Speaking on the occasion, the DDC said that the Vibrant Village Programme is poised to become a transformative initiative for the border district. He reiterated that the district administration remains committed to ensuring inclusive development and significantly enhancing the quality of life for residents of border villages.

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