JAMMU: The Director Panchayati Raj J&K, Sham Lal today chaired a meeting to finalise the arrangements for National Panchayati Raj Day celebrations across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on April 24, 2026. The meeting was attended by Deputy Secretary Tahir Ahmad Magray, Under Secretary Mohammad Arshad Nomani, ACPs, BDOs and other concerned officials.

Highlighting the significance of the day, the Director Panchayati Raj said National Panchayati Raj Day, observed on April 24, promotes grassroots democracy through empowered Gram Panchayats. He also called for social media outreach, directing officials to tag the Ministry of Panchayati Raj’s official handles for wider visibility. He directed that Gram Sabhas be convened in all panchayats to discuss key issues, including SDGs, OSR and PAI, ensuring inclusive participation in the event.

Awareness activities under the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan, along with rallies and community programmes be organised as 100-day plan is underway to make panchayats drug-free. The Director emphasised proper documentation of proceedings and timely uploading on the official platform, urging all officers to ensure smooth and successful conduct of the event.

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