JAMMU: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, today chaired a meeting at Civil Secretariat here to review the functioning of tribal hostels in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by Secretary Tribal Affairs, Prasanna Ramaswamy G, Director, Tribal Affairs, Ghulam Rasool and other officers.

The Minister had a detailed assessment of functioning of the hostels with emphasis on the staff strength, improving sanitation, dining facilities, digital classrooms, libraries and recreational spaces to foster academic and personal growth for hostel inmates. The Minister said that the government has launched various schemes for the upliftment of tribals that envision saturation of critical gaps in social infrastructure, health, education and livelihood of tribal areas. He emphasised the need for coordinated efforts in effective implementation of schemes so that the benefits percolate to the last man.

The Minister asked the concerned officers to take up the matter of ongoing construction works in districts with the respective Deputy Commissioners so that all the projects are completed within the stipulated time frame. Javed Rana also reviewed the expansion of Dharti Aaba Mission to all tribal villages, focusing on education, healthcare and livelihood opportunities. He took first hand appraisal about implementation of the scheme being executed for welfare of tribal people. He also discussed various aspects related to the scheme and other modalities for its successful execution to achieve the target.

Secretary Tribal Affairs gave a brief about the functioning of tribal hostels across Jammu and Kashmir. He also highlighted various ongoing works being executed under UT Capex Budget 2024-25. He informed that under UT Capex Budget, a number of works for up-gradation of G&B Hostels, construction of 100 bedded new Hostels, adequate electricity, water supply and connectivity to tribal villages, transit accommodation for migratory nomadic population, empowerment of unemployed, skill development, establishment of Animal/sheep/goat units, establishment of smart classrooms/e-class rooms, creation of electric sub-station, installation of hand pumps, bore well have been taken up.

The Secretary said that during the current financial year 2024-25, the annual plan has been approved for a total outlay of Rs. 78.00 crore across the entire UT, against which 80% funds stand already released for different works which are under execution. He said that this shall significantly improve the infrastructure and standard of living of the tribals residing in remote/far flung areas. During the meeting, the need of human resources for smooth running of tribal hostels and the offices at district level was also discussed in detail.

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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