• Union urges reforms to enhance artisan welfare under new leadership

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Handicrafts Employees Union (JKHEU) Technical Wing, under the leadership of its President Mohammad Suhaib, has extended a warm welcome to the newly appointed Director of Handicrafts and Handloom, Mussarat ul Islam. A seasoned officer with a proven track record, Mussarat ul Islam is widely recognized for his previous contributions to the department, including the significant step of increasing stipends for trainees. His humility, visionary approach, and dedication to the welfare of artisans and employees have earned him widespread appreciation.

The union thanked the government for appointing such a capable and forward-thinking leader, expressing hope for a new era of development in the department. During an interactive meeting, senior union members and department officials discussed key issues affecting the department. Some of the major concerns highlighted included: The union raised concerns over the lack of promotional avenues for craftsmen, particularly those serving in the School of Designs. They urged the revision of recruitment rules to enable career progression.

With training centers grappling with a severe shortage of crafts staff, the union proposed immediate measures, including conducting practical tests to fill Class IV vacancies and address the growing workload on existing employees. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Joint Director Handicrafts and Handloom Mr. Parvaiz Sajad Ganaie and Deputy Director Trainings Mirza Shahid Ali Beigh, who engaged in discussions about employee-related concerns. Senior union leaders, including General Secretary Organisation Sheikh Abdul Majeed, Abdul Rashid Shaheen, Javaid Ahmad Yatoo, Gulzar Ahmad Dangroo, Imtiyaz Ahmad Hakeem (President OCC), and district presidents, also participated in the event.

Speaking on the occasion, JKHEU President Mohammad Suhaib expressed his optimism, saying: "The appointment of Mussarat ul Islam Sahab as Director marks a turning point for our department. His vast experience, leadership, and commitment to artisans and employees give us hope that the long-standing challenges in the department will be resolved effectively. We are confident that under his guidance, the Handicrafts and Handloom Department will achieve new heights of excellence."

In response, Director Mussarat ul Islam assured attendees that all issues raised during the meeting would be addressed with priority. He reiterated his dedication to the welfare of artisans, employees, and the overall growth of the department. The event concluded on a positive note, marking the beginning of a promising chapter for the Jammu and Kashmir Handicrafts and Handloom Department under the dynamic leadership of Mussarat ul Islam.

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