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

JAMMU: Director General Rural Sanitation Anoo Malhotra today convened a meeting to assess work progress and devise action plan for fast-tracking the implementation and verification of assets under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G) across different districts of Jammu Division.

The Assistant Commissioner Panchayats (ACPs) of the districts of Samba, Kathua, Jammu and Kishtwar presented the current status, gaps and progress made in creation of Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs), decentralized, Wastewater Treatment Systems (DEWATS), GOBARdhan units, Community Sanitary Complexes (CSCs), Compost Pits, Soak Pits and door-to-door (D2D) waste collection.

The DG stressed on removing bottlenecks related to land availability, especially for DEWATS, GOBARdhan and Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs). She instructed the ACPs and other district officials to coordinate with PRIs and local communities to resolve these issues on priority.

The officials reported that D2D hotspot areas have been identified and are being targeted for 100% coverage within 15 days. From Kathua, it was informed that D2D waste collection is active and is being expanded to uncovered areas. The DG directed concerned officials to complete ODF+ declaration for the blocks within the next three days. She further instructed to promptly fill gaps in IHHL coverage.

Reviewing SBM-G works in Jammu, Kathua and Samba, Ms. Malhotra instructed officials to expedite verification of assets, ensure timely data updation and strengthen solid and liquid waste management systems.

Reviewing progress in District Kishtwar, the DG emphasized the need to accelerate progress in remote and geographically challenging areas. Officials were asked to ensure functionality of existing SBM-G assets, address delays due to terrain and logistics and devise a block-wise action plan for achieving ODF+ targets at the earliest. She directed the district team to intensify field visits, document progress regularly and push for community-led sanitation initiatives in far-flung villages.

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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