SRINAGAR: The Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has triumphantly wrapped up a series of Swachhtantra- themed initiatives as part of the lead-up to Republic Day 2025, fostering a spirit of community engagement and environmental responsibility. From January 21 to January 24, the campaign, aptly titled ‘Swachhtantra – Gantantra Ki Shaan, Swachhta Se Bane Mahaan,’ focused on highlighting the importance of cleanliness in nurturing national pride and social progress.

Throughout the four-day event, a variety of dynamic activities were organized, engaging citizens of all ages in the pursuit of a cleaner Srinagar. Key highlights of the campaign included Plogging Run, Swachhtantra Pledge, Nukkad Natak, Quiz Competition and Painting Competition. The innovative fitness and cleanliness initiative of ‘Plogging Run’ encouraged participants to jog along the picturesque Jehlum River Front at Raj Bagh while simultaneously collecting litter. It besides promoting physical fitness also fostered a sense of civic duty among the participants.

Similarly under Swachhtantra Pledge, citizens and local officials gathered to take pledge, committing themselves to uphold cleanliness in their surroundings. This collective vow reinforced community solidarity and the shared goal of a cleaner environment. Through Nukkad Natak, local artists captivated audiences with street performances at the renowned Ghanta Ghar Lal Chowk, using the medium of theatre to communicate the critical message of waste management and community responsibility. These dramatizations effectively engaged the public in conversations about environmental issues.

Quiz Competition proved to be another attractive activity in which students from various coaching centers  showcased their knowledge and enthusiasm for environmental issues through a competitive quiz focused on the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and related topics. This activity served to educate and inspire the younger generation about the importance of cleanliness.

Also through Painting Competition, young artists capitalized the opportunity to express their creative visions of a cleaner and greener India through an art competition. Their imaginative works underscored the role of creativity in advocating for environmental awareness. The events witnessed enthusiastic participation from local citizens, students, and various organizations, reflecting a strong community commitment to cleanliness and sustainability.

Commissioner of SMC, Dr. Owais Ahmed expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all participants during his closing remarks. He emphasized the corporation's ongoing dedication to making Srinagar a model city for cleanliness and environmental consciousness. These Swachhta activities not only enriched the Republic Day celebrations but also served as a poignant reminder that a clean and healthy environment is the foundation to the prosperity and independence of our nation.

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
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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