KISHTWAR:  The use of farm machinery to enhance farm productivity, reduce manual labour and improve operational efficiency is gradually gaining momentum in Kishtwar District- thanks to the Farm Mechanization and Automation component of Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP). The Agriculture Department is currently providing subsidies ranging from 50% to 90% under various HADP interventions to support and incentivize farmers.

Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma today handed over the keys of a tractor to Muneeb Hussain Sheikh, a beneficiary from the remote village of Astan Gam, Sub Division Marwah. The support was extended under the Farm Mechanization and Automation component of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) for the year 2025–26.

The Deputy Commissioner interacted with the beneficiary to understand the planned utilization of the machinery and emphasized its potential in enhancing farm productivity, reducing manual labour and improving operational efficiency. The number of individuals having availed the incentive under the scheme has gone up to 6. Five tractors have already been provided to farmers across the district under the scheme, reflecting the administration’s sustained efforts to encourage agricultural mechanization.

The DC encouraged farmers to proactively avail themselves of these schemes, highlighting that mechanized farming is crucial for improving crop output, ensuring timely field operations and achieving cost-effective cultivation. The event was attended by CPO Akhil Thakur; DAO Rajeshwar Singh Rana; SDO Manzoor Ahmed Zarger and other officials of the Agriculture Department.

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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