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.). 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

RAJOURI: District Rajouri received notable recognition at the National Seminar (North) on Regional Best Practices in Aspirational Districts and Aspirational Blocks organized by NITI Aayog at Varanasi.

Representing the district, Sandeep Kumar Sharma, District Statistics and Evaluation Officer Rajouri gave a presentation on the best practices implemented in Aspirational Block Khawas in the education sector. The presentation highlighted the challenges initially faced in the block, the administrative interventions undertaken, and the positive outcomes achieved through strategic planning and convergence of schemes.

He elaborated that the district administration successfully integrated key centrally sponsored flagship schemes such as PMGSY, SBM-G and Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan to bring impactful improvements on the ground.

“Under this convergence approach, previously unconnected villages and hamlets were provided with all-weather road connectivity. Infrastructure in educational institutions was significantly upgraded with the construction of Teacher Bhawans at GHSS Narla and GHSS Ujhan, establishment of a KGBV Girls Hostel at Khawas, and creation of new school buildings and additional classrooms. Separate girls’ toilets were also constructed in Government schools, which played a crucial role in ensuring dignity, safety and better retention of female students” he elaborated.

These interventions, he said resulted in a remarkable increase in girls’ enrolment, reduction of dropout rates to zero, improved transition rates of students from upper primary to secondary and from secondary to higher secondary levels, and increased academic performance, with more students securing above 60% marks in Class 10th and 12th examinations.

To ensure continued education for the children of migratory tribal families, the functioning of four seasonal centres in high-altitude pastoral areas was regularly monitored, which also contributed to a notable rise in literacy rates. Community participation, encouraged by local leadership and awareness efforts, played a vital role in motivating tribal parents to send their children to school, especially girls.

The initiatives were implemented under the visionary leadership of District Magistrate Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma along with strong inter-departmental coordination and continuous monitoring by the district administration.

The presentation was highly appreciated by the Mission Director, ADP/ABP, NITI Aayog, New Delhi for effectively showcasing the district’s innovative and result-oriented approach. He was formally felicitated by NITI Aayog in recognition of the exemplary work and impactful presentation made on behalf of District Rajouri.

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). “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