The Survival Fight of JK Monitor: For 16 years, JK Monitor has chronicled Jammu and Kashmir with integrity. Since 2010, I have steered its newsroom alongside our visionary Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan (IIT Kharagpur alumnus, University of Maryland Ph.D.). His tragic demise in October 2026 left a severe financial and operational vacuum. Without urgent support, our 24/7 news portal risks permanently shutting down after November 2026, remaining only as a static digital archive. We appeal to well-wishers to extend a helping hand to keep our active newsroom alive. Support Us: WhatsApp: +91-9906103001 | Email: journalistajmerwani@gmail.com
  • Poonch schools struggling with staff shortage: Dr Shazad

JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Border Area Development Conference (JK_BADC), a registered organisation working for the welfare of tribal communities and residents of border areas, has urged the government to take urgent steps to address the shortage of staff in government schools across Poonch district.

The BADC organisation expressed serious concern over the large number of vacancies, stating that several posts of subject-specific lecturers, masters and teachers have remained unfilled for a considerable period, thereby affecting the smooth academic functioning of schools, particularly in remote and border belts where access to quality education is already limited. It noted that the shortage has disrupted classroom learning and placed additional burden on the existing teaching staff, ultimately impacting academic standards and student outcomes.

Highlighting the issue, Dr. Shazad Ahmed Malik, Chairman of JKBADC and former Vice Chancellor, demanded that all vacant posts be filled before the commencement of the next academic session so that students do not face further academic disruption. He also highlighted the shortage of non-teaching staff, including lab technicians, library assistants, clerical staff and multi-tasking staff personnel.

Dr. Shazad  also  pointed out the poor infrastructure in many government educational institutions and urged the government to conduct a comprehensive survey of shortcomings and take appropriate remedial action. The BADC Chairman  emphasised that strengthening the education sector in border districts is vital for inclusive development and long-term social stability.

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