In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

SRINAGAR: The Rural Development Department and Panchayati Raj, Jammu & Kashmir, has strongly refuted claims circulating on social media regarding new qualifications for Sarpanch candidates in the Union Territory.

A viral social media post alleged that the J&K government had issued a notification under "J&K Panchayati Raj Act, 1989 under Section 6, 2022," introducing new eligibility criteria for those aspiring to become Sarpanches. The post claimed that candidates would need to be permanent residents of J&K, be at least 25 years old, and have a minimum educational qualification of 12th pass, among other requirements.

However, the Department has categorically denied these claims, terming the news entirely false and fabricated. In response, the Department has emphasized that no new notification has been issued and that the current eligibility criteria remain as they have been under the J&K Panchayati Raj Act of 1989.

The RDD has also clarified that any changes or amendments to this Act would be announced through official channels, not through unverified social media posts. The RDD has cautioned social media platform users against spreading fake news stories related to changes in local governance structures or election processes.

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
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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