SRINAGAR: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar, today inaugurated the SARAS Mela at Sher-e-Kashmir Park, Srinagar, showcasing the best of crafts and products by rural women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) from across the country.

MD JKRLM Dr. Shubhra Sharma; Additional Mission Director JKRLM Kashmir, Mohammad Imran Khan; General Manager J&K Bank Rakesh Magotra; representatives from NABARD and Grameen Bank were also present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that the SARAS Mela provides a vital platform for rural women entrepreneurs to exhibit their skills, expand market linkages, and strengthen livelihood opportunities. He added that such initiatives embody the Government’s vision of empowering SHGs and promoting rural entrepreneurship as key drivers of inclusive growth.

The Minister also announced that J&K Bank has sanctioned â‚č100 crore to 2,673 SHGs, marking a significant step toward promoting self-employment and women-led enterprises in rural areas. The Minister also inspected stalls, interacted with artisans, and appreciated their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.

Organised by the J&K Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) under the Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, the 11-day Mela features over 200 SHG women from 13 States, along with stalls from all districts of J&K. The fair showcases a diverse range of handicrafts, handloom products, and regional cuisines, celebrating India’s rich art and culture and business skills of SHG women.

The event also includes workshops aimed at enhancing marketing and business skills of SHG women. The Mela will continue till October 14 and will be open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM, with free public entry.

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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