The Survival Fight of JK Monitor : For 16 years, JK Monitor has chronicled Jammu and Kashmir with integrity. Since 2010, I have steered its newsroom alongside our visionary Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan (IIT Kharagpur alumnus, University of Maryland Ph.D.), who treated me like a brother and mentor. His tragic demise in October 2026 left a severe financial and operational vacuum. Without urgent support, our 24/7 news portal risks permanently shutting down after November 2026, remaining only as a static digital archive. We appeal to well-wishers to extend a helping hand to keep our active newsroom alive. Support Us: WhatsApp: +91-9906103001 | Email: journalistajmerwani@gmail.com

SRINAGAR: Handicrafts & Handloom Department, Kashmir, today urged registered artisans to opt for training for skill upgradation under the auspices of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 4.0, the Centre’s flagship skill programme. In a press statement issued here today, a spokesperson from the Handicrafts & Handloom Department, stated that 04 crafts have been selected under PMKY 4.0 under which artisans shall be trained in enhancing their employability skills to further boost the famed handicrafts and handloom sector of Jammu & Kashmir. These crafts include Papier Mache, Copperware, Zari & Stone Carving. “Apart from this, artisans shall also be sensitized in Merchandising to boost sales,” he said, adding that 650 artisans shall be trained in the first tranche and provided stipend.      

Highlighting the need for enhancing skills and business acumen of artisans on stand-alone basis, the spokesman advised the interested artisans to approach the Coordinator at the Craft Development Institute, Bagh-e-Ali Mardan Khan, Nowshera, Srinagar, for registration. “While 04 courses shall be imparted at CDI Srinagar, 1 program shall be organized at EDI Pampore for stone craft in District Pulwama,” he added. The last date for receipt of registrations at CDI shall be December 31. The spokesperson further stated that PMKY 4.0 training shall involve 60 hours of lectures and 12 hours of advance skill training, spread over 12 days.

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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