DODA: SKUAST–Jammu and the Department of Agriculture Production & Farmers’ Welfare, Doda organised an awareness programme on the cultivation of Kala Zeera (Black Cumin) at village Gai Dessa.

The initiative witnessed the participation of around 75 progressive farmers from Gai Dessa and nearby areas highlighting the growing interest in premium spice cultivation to boost rural livelihoods.

During the programme, detailed deliberations were held on modern cultivation practices, processing techniques and marketing strategies for Kala Zeera, a region-specific high-value spice naturally growing in the area.

The joint initiative aims to expand organized cultivation of Kala Zeera over 300–500 kanals, enhancing farmers’ income and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

The programme reflected the concerted efforts of Deputy Commissioner Doda, Harvinder Singh; MD HADP/JKCIP, Sandeep Kumar and the Director of Agriculture, Jammu to strengthen niche crop promotion and provide institutional support to farmers.

The Doda Bhagwah JK Farmers Producers Company (FPO) is leading in efforts to bring Kala Zeera under organized cultivation, ensuring market linkages and quality standards.

The programme was attended by senior agricultural experts including Dr. S.K. Gupta, Director Research, SKUAST–Jammu; Dr. Vishal Gupta, Head, Plant Pathology, SKUAST–Jammu; Susheel Rattan Sharma, Mushroom Development Officer Doda & Nodal Officer HADP/JKCIP; the Agriculture Extension Officer Kastigarh and other field staff.

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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