SRINAGAR: Secretary, Rural Development Deaprtment and Panchayati Raj (RDD&PR), Mohammad Aijaz Asad, on Wednesday chaired a review meeting to assess utilisation of funds and physical progress under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin (SBM-G) in Jammu and Kashmir.

The meeting was attended by Director General (DG) Rural Sanitation, Anoo Malhotra, Deputy Director Rural Sanitation Kashmir, Mantasha Binti Rashid, Superintending Engineer REW Kashmir, Aamir Ali, Superintending Engineer REW Jammu, Rajesh Kumar Agastam, Assistant Commissioner Panchayats (ACPs) and Block Development Officers (BDOs).

The meeting, focused on the physical completion and corresponding expenditure for the financial year 2024-25. The officials presented a detailed report on the total funds released to Assistant Commissioner Panchayats (ACPs) and Block Development Officers (BDOs) and their respective expenditure. The Secretary reiterated the importance of proper documentation, transparency and daily monitoring of progress at the district level.

He stressed that timely execution of sanitation projects is crucial for achieving the goals of Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) and improving rural sanitation across J&K. The Secretary directed the officials to expedite pending works and ensure judicious utilisation of funds to improve rural sanitation across the UT. The Secretary directed the officials to expedite completion of the ongoing projects and ensure efficient utilisation of funds. He emphasised the need for regular monitoring to achieve sanitation and waste management goals effectively.

The Secretary emphasized the urgency of utilizing pending funds effectively. He directed the ACPs to submit detailed reports within two days outlining the pending bills and anticipated expenditure by March 31. He also instructed the child agencies and BDOs to monitor daily expenditures to ensure effective fund utilisation.

Aijaz Asad reiterated government’s unwavering commitment towards providing safe, hygienic and dignified living conditions for rural communities. He urged all the stakeholders for collaborative efforts to ensure timely completion of the ongoing projects and optimal functionality of SBM-G assets.

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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