JAMMU: The SPARSH Leprosy Awareness Fortnight campaign concluded today in district Jammu with an awareness programme held at PM Government City Middle School, RS Pura. The campaign was carried out under the supervision of Chief Medical Officer Jammu, Dr Harbaksh Singh, Zonal Leprosy Officer, Dr Sushma Matoo and Block Medical Officer RS Pura, Dr Balwinder Singh. It aimed to strengthen public understanding of leprosy, remove stigma and encourage early detection of the disease.

To mark the culmination, a Nukkad Natak (street play) was organised by the Cultural Unit of the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) Jammu, with support from the school's Principal, Sheetal Kundal. The play sensitised students, staff and community members about the signs and symptoms of leprosy, the importance of timely medical attention and the availability of free treatment through government health services.

The District Leprosy Control Unit Jammu, led by Medical Officer Dr Deepika Dewan along with Para Medical Assistants Krishan Kumar and Subash Chowdhary, conducted an awareness session for school staff, students and medical personnel. Pamphlets and posters highlighting early detection, treatment procedures and misconceptions related to leprosy were distributed to encourage informed community participation. The medical team also addressed queries and emphasised that leprosy is completely curable if diagnosed early.

The event reinforced the key messages of the SPARSH campaign: ending stigma, promoting awareness and encouraging prompt medical intervention. The programme was conducted under the direction of Joint Director Information Jammu, Deepak Dubey and the supervision of Cultural Officer Jammu, Mohit Sharma.

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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