• Stresses timely completion of road, other projects in J&K

SRINAGAR: The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly today convened a meeting at the Assembly Complex, Srinagar, to review the audit paras pertaining to the Public Works Department (PWD). The meeting was chaired by PAC Chairman Sham Lal Sharma and attended by members including Mubarak Gul, Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi), Qaysar Jamshaid Lone, Javid Hassan Baig, Sajad Shaheen and Muzaffar Iqbal Khan.

The Committee undertook a detailed examination of Audit Paras 4.8 (2000–01), 4.7 (2001–02) and 3.20 to 3.23 (2016–17) pertaining to the PWD (R&B) Department. The members discussed key issues including rational and timely fund allocation, geo-tagging, technical and administrative approvals, preparation of DPRs, forest clearance, tendering and e-tendering processes besides adherence to financial code formalities.

The Chairman stressed the need for strengthening the road network and upgrading infrastructure across all districts of Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasised that better connectivity is a basic requirement for the people and underscored the importance of strict monitoring to ensure quality control in project execution. The Committee called for timely completion of projects, immediate attention to the maintenance of damaged roads for public convenience and timely tendering to fully utilize the working season in Kashmir. It also directed that the pending works be expedited and completed within stipulated timeframes.

The Chairman further instructed that accountability be fixed on officers for delays in project execution. He sought a comprehensive report on violations of financial codes and irregularities in fund allocation. Underscoring the vital role of the PWD, the Chairman stressed greater transparency, accountability and seriousness in its functioning. He reiterated the PAC’s mandate to promote transparency, fiscal discipline and accountability in governance.

The meeting was attended by Principal Accountant General J&K, K. P. Yadaw; Principal Secretary PWD, Anil Kumar Singh; Secretary Legislative Assembly; Director General Accounts and Treasuries; Director Planning and Finance; Chief Engineers and other senior officers.

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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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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  Read the message here