BUDGAM: Social Forestry Department Budgam today celebrated Chinar Day with great enthusiasm across the district by organizing plantation drives and awareness activities to mark the occasion. The day was observed with the aim of promoting environmental awareness and encouraging the conservation of the iconic Chinar tree, which holds great ecological and cultural significance in Kashmir.

As part of the celebrations, saplings of the majestic Chinar tree were planted at prominent locations, including SIDCO Budgam and NIFT Budgam, in order to enhance green cover and promote environmental sustainability in the district.

The plantation drive was carried out in a coordinated manner with the active involvement of officials and employees of the Social Forestry Department along with representatives from various institutions and stakeholders.

The events were headed by the Range Forest Officer, Social Forestry Range Budgam, who highlighted the importance of preserving the Chinar tree and urged participants to contribute actively towards environmental protection and afforestation initiatives. He emphasized that the Chinar tree is not only a symbol of Kashmir’s natural heritage but also plays an important role in maintaining ecological balance.

Employees of the Social Forestry Department, staff members of NIFT Budgam and other stakeholders enthusiastically participated in the plantation drive and expressed their commitment to safeguarding the environment. The participants appreciated the department for organizing such initiatives that promote environmental responsibility among the public.

The Social Forestry Department reiterated its commitment to continue similar plantation drives and awareness programmes in the future, with the objective of promoting greenery, protecting natural resources and restoring ecological balance through consistent afforestation efforts across Budgam 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). “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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