SRINAGAR: Secretary, Rural Development (RDD) and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, today chaired a review meeting to assess the progress of projects sanctioned under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investments (SASCI) in the Union Territory.

The meeting was informed that Rs 21.10 crore has been sanctioned for various Rural Development and Panchayati Raj infrastructure projects across Jammu and Kashmir. The Secretary emphasised that at least 75 percent utilisation of sanctioned funds is mandatory, failing which non-performing projects would be reallocated.

He directed officials to ensure timely completion of ongoing works and stated that funds from slow-moving projects would be re-appropriated to fast-moving schemes to ensure full utilisation before March 31, 2026.

The Secretary also cautioned implementing agencies against submitting inflated fund requests and directed that proposals for additional funds must be accompanied by written undertakings certifying full utilisation within the stipulated timeframe. Senior officers from the Rural Development Department, including Directors, Finance officials and engineers from PWD (R&B) and REW, attended the meeting.

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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