In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
  • Reviews restoration works, listens to locals’ issues, assures early rehabilitation measures

KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma, along with senior functionaries of the District Administration Kathua today visited cloudburst hit Jodh village. The cloudburst hit the village on August 17, claiming five lives and badly affecting the public infrastructure. During the visit, the DC interacted with the local residents and gave a patient hearing to their grievances and demands. He said that the objective of the visit along with officers from different departments was to personally ascertain the ground realities and review measures taken to restore normalcy in the affected areas.

The DC informed that extensive damage was caused to vital public assets, many of which have been temporarily restored. He said that the crucial road connectivity from Ghatti to Suffain is being taken up under PMGSY, for which a project worth ₹12 crore has been approved. He directed the executing agencies to revisit the area and ensure timely restoration of connectivity to the unconnected peripheral habitations.

Responding to the issues raised by locals, the DC informed that the demand for allotment of 5 marlas of land to the affected families has been conveyed to the government and is under consideration. He further directed the concerned departments to ensure uninterrupted ration supply, upgradation of local schools, restoration of defunct water sources and improvement of drinking water supply and installation of additional protection crates to prevent future damage.

The DC appreciated the spirit of brotherhood and resilience shown by the local community during the testing times and urged them to continue maintaining unity and cooperation. Earlier, Ex-BDC Chairperson Barnoti, Brijeshwar Singh, along with former PRI members and local residents, projected area-specific issues requiring administrative intervention.

Among others, ADDC Kathua, ADC, PO ICDS, ACR, ACD, CPO, and XENs of PWD, PHE, PDD, PMGSY, besides CAO, CAHO, CHO, Tehsildar, BDO, LDM, ALC and other officers were present during the visit.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇