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

RAJOURI: In a significant step towards strengthening dairy sector and improving rural livelihood, the Animal Husbandry Department Rajouri, under the guidance of the Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma has successfully mobilized and sponsored the establishment of a Milk Value Addition Unit in the District.

As part of this initiative, farmers of Village Kalali, Manjakote were sensitized and made fully aware of the vast scope and economic opportunities available in the domain of milk value addition. Through continuous counselling and field-level motivation by departmental officers, the farmers have successfully formed and registered a cooperative society titled ā€œThe Hill Fresh Dairy Cooperative Ltd.ā€

The cooperative society has formally submitted its proposal under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) for the activity ā€œAssistance to Milk Value Addition Startupsā€. Under HADP, the applicant cooperative is eligible for financial assistance up to ā‚¹25.00 lakh, enabling them to establish and operationalize a modern milk value addition unit that benefits the farming community of Manjakote and nearby areas.

Additionally, the Hill Fresh Dairy Cooperative has been encouraged and guided to apply for the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF). Under AHIDF, beneficiaries can avail 3% interest subvention on bank loans for establishing milk processing and value addition units.

The initiative is an important intervention aimed at ensuring the availability of quality milk and milk products in the district; providing a structured and remunerative market to dairy farmers; enhancing income and promoting rural entrepreneurship; reducing wastage and improving the value chain efficiency in the dairy sector

Speaking on the development, the Deputy Commissioner appreciated the proactive efforts of the Animal Husbandry Department and emphasized that the initiative would serve as a model for farmer-led enterprises in the district. He further stated that strengthening the dairy sector is central to ensuring food security and enhancing economic resilience of rural households.

The Animal Husbandry Department Rajouri, remains committed to facilitating farmer cooperatives, supporting entrepreneurship and promoting sustainable dairy development across the district.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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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