KATHUA: As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen emergency preparedness and public safety, the District Administration Kathua today conducted a large-scale Civil Defence Mock Drill -“Operation Shield” here at Hiranagar. The exercise was carried out at Government Middle School, Londi, located in the strategically important border belt of Hiranagar.

The drill was a coordinated effort of the Civil Administration headed by SDM Phulail Singh, Civil Defence Department, District Police, and the Territorial Army, reflecting a strong spirit of inter-agency collaboration. The primary objective was to simulate a real-time emergency, test the readiness of response teams, and educate the local population on proper safety protocols during crisis.

During the exercise, various emergency scenarios were enacted, and live response demonstrations were carried out by participating teams. The drill served as a practical training session for both officials and civilians, ensuring they are better prepared for unforeseen events, particularly in sensitive border regions.

The local community participated actively and followed the mock drill instructions with discipline and cooperation. Officials on-site also engaged with residents, spreading awareness about the importance of civil defence and community resilience.

The District Administration Kathua expressed appreciation for the seamless coordination among all participating departments and the proactive involvement of the local populace. Such drills, they emphasized, are vital for strengthening the region’s ability to respond effectively to emergencies and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.

Pertinently, the Kathua Administration has also made arrangements for a Mock Blackout Drill in Hiranagar Sub Division and the Kathua Municipal areas from 8:00 PM to 8:15 PM today, to ensure wider preparedness and community readiness especially in border zones.

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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