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

POONCH: The Department of Social Welfare Poonch organised a ‘Senior Sammaan Samaroh’ (Senior Citizen Meet) today to honour the contribution of senior citizens to society. The event witnessed participation from elderly citizens, officers, health experts and civil society members.

The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp followed by the National Anthem. District Social Welfare Officer Poonch Khalil A Banday delivered the welcome address, highlighting the event's objectives and reiterating the department’s commitment to the welfare and empowerment of senior citizens.

Deputy Commissioner Poonch Ashok Kumar Sharma graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Senior Superintendent of Police Poonch Shafket Hussain Bhat was also present and appreciated the department's initiative.

Dr Anu Bhardwaj from HIIMS delivered a guest lecture on age-related health issues. She gave a presentation on preventive healthcare, lifestyle management and early diagnosis of common ailments affecting the elderly. An interactive session followed, during which Dr Bhardwaj addressed queries from the participants.

Senior citizens were felicitated with shawls and warm bottles were distributed to ensure their comfort during the winter. Banks supported the initiative by providing warm bottles to marginalised senior citizens, while the Ayush Department distributed free medicines. Singer Master Kartar Chand performed during the event.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner noted that this was the first Senior Citizen Meet organised by the Social Welfare Department in the district. He congratulated the department and emphasised the need to continue efforts to safeguard the dignity and health of the elderly. The Deputy Commissioner also handed over Senior Citizen Certificates to five beneficiaries.

Prominent attendees included ADC Tahir Mustafa Malik, ACR Muhammad Sayeed, CMO Dr Parvaiz, Principal GDC Poonch Dr Jasbir Singh, DTO Haneef Tantray, District Officer Ayush, LDM and Tehsildar Haveli Azhar Majid. Several prominent citizens, including retired officials and civil society representatives were also present. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by District Social Welfare Officer Khalil A Banday.

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