KATHUA: Director Rural Development, Jammu, Mohd. Mumtaz Ali, convened a meeting at the PWD Guest House in Billawar to assess the developmental works and progress achieved under various schemes implemented by the Department of Rural Development in district Kathua. The Director conducted a detailed, Panchayat-wise review of schemes such as PMAY(G), MGNREGA and UT/District Capex in the blocks of Billawar, Baggan, Loi Malhar, Diggain, Mandli and Nagrota Gujjroo.

The Director highlighted the need for improved progress under the PMAY(G)/Awas Plus scheme and emphasised the importance of timely completion of houses. He encouraged all involved to enhance their efforts to ensure that pending houses under PMAY(G) are completed as soon as possible. To support this goal, monthly targets were set for Panchayat Secretaries to help facilitate the timely completion of all houses in accordance with the timelines established by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India.

The key performance indicators under MGNREGS were reviewed thoroughly. Monthly completion targets were assigned to Panchayat Secretaries, GRS and Block Development Officers (BDOs) to help guide their efforts. It was also communicated that consistent support and monitoring will be provided and that there may be further discussions regarding performance if targets are not met.

While reviewing the progress under UT/District Capex, the Engineering wing of the department was urged to expedite the tendering and allotment of civil works, ensuring that all allotted projects are undertaken and completed in a timely manner under close technical supervision. The Director also inspected various ongoing works in Block Billawar, Dinga Amb and Block Nagrota Gujroo, stressing the importance of timely completion and directing BDOs and engineering staff to monitor the quality of the works being executed.

The meeting was attended by the Additional Chief Development Officer (ACD) Kathua, BDOs from Billawar, Baggan, Duggain, Mandli, Nagrota Gujjroo and Lohai Malhar, as well as the Assistant Executive Engineer (REW) Kathua and various Panchayat Secretaries and GRS from these blocks.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇

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