DODA: District Development Commissioner Doda Krishan Lal chaired a meeting to review the preparedness of departments for the fortnight-long celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (JJGD)-2026, scheduled from November 1 to November 15.

The meeting focused on ensuring coordinated participation of departments in organising activities to highlight the rich cultural heritage, traditions, history, languages and contributions of tribal communities, particularly their role in India’s freedom struggle and nation-building.

The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Anil Kumar Thakur, Programme Officer ICDS and Nodal Officer Tribal Affairs Department Akhter Qazi, Chief Planning Officer Manesh Kumar Manhas, Assistant Commissioner Development Din Mohd Afaqi, Chief Education Officer Bhushan Kumar Pathak, District Cultural Officer, Principal Government Degree College Doda and Wardens of Gujjar and Bakarwal Boys’ and Girls’ Hostels. SDM Thathri, Tehsildar Bhaderwah, Tehsildar Chiralla and the heads of Government Degree Colleges Thathri and Kastigarh participated virtually.

The DDC emphasised the importance of making the fortnight-long celebrations meaningful, inclusive and participatory, with special focus on tribal identity, cultural values, indigenous traditions and the contribution of tribal freedom fighters, particularly Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

He directed the concerned departments to ensure timely implementation of planned activities in accordance with the approved calendar. He stressed that the celebrations should extend beyond formal functions and reach tribal habitations through active community participation and awareness initiatives.

The meeting decided to host a cultural programme on November 15, 2026, showcasing tribal culture, traditions, history, languages and heritage. Planned activities will also highlight traditional customs, folk music, dance and indigenous knowledge.

Emphasising the role of educational institutions in preserving tribal heritage, the DDC directed the Chief Education Officer and heads of concerned educational institutions to organise awareness sessions, painting competitions, essay writing, poetry recitation, quizzes and other activities on tribal history, culture, languages and heritage. These activities will also seek to familiarise students with the contributions of tribal heroes and promote awareness of tribal life and traditions.

Block Development Officers will serve as nodal officers for organising activities at the block level as per the approved calendar. Focus shall remain on generating awareness among tribal communities regarding government schemes.

Stressing the importance of healthcare outreach in tribal areas, the DDC directed the Health Department to organise free health check-up camps, tuberculosis screening and awareness programmes on health-related government schemes in ST villages.

The DDC revealed that meritorious Scheduled Tribe students and individuals who have excelled in education, art, literature, sports and other fields shall be felicitated by the district administration for their achievements. The District Youth Services and Sports Department will facilitate the registration of ST youth on the MY Bharat (Mera Yuva Bharat) portal to encourage community engagement, experiential learning and participation in leadership and national development initiatives.

The 15-day activities will culminate on November 15, 2026, with a district-level mega event commemorating the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. The DDC called upon all officers and departments to work in close coordination, discharge their assigned responsibilities effectively and ensure the successful observance of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas 2026 across District Doda.

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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