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

RAJOURI: Secretary, Rural Development Department (RDD) and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, today reviewed the progress and on-ground implementation of key rural development schemes during an extensive tour of Rajouri district.

He conducted block-wise reviews in Sunderbani, Siot, Lamberi, Nowshera, Qila Darhal, Kalakote and Moughla, focusing on major Centrally Sponsored Schemes including MGNREGA, PMAY-G, SBM-G, NRLM, RGSA and IWMP.

The Secretary inspected the BDC building at Siot and the under-construction BDC building at Kalakote, directing concerned officers to expedite and complete the remaining works at Kalakote within the stipulated timeframe.

Emphasising sanitation and cleanliness, he directed strengthening of door-to-door waste collection and proper operation and maintenance of SBM-G assets. The district has completed 140 compost pits, 197 soakage pits, 87 community sanitary complexes, 10 segregation sheds and 11 DEWATS units. All remaining SBM-G works were directed to be completed by February.

Reviewing AIP 2025, the Secretary stressed timely completion of approved works. Under PRI Grants, 1,611 works have been completed against a target of 2,862, with instructions to fast-track the remaining projects.

Under MGNREGA, the district has generated 41 lakh person-days, with an additional 11 lakh person-days to be released to further boost employment. Under PMAY-G, 60,186 houses have been completed against a target of 62,184, with directions to complete the remaining houses within 15 days.

The Secretary also met Panchayat Secretaries, who thanked him for their recent upgradation from Level-2 to Level-4. He interacted with public delegations and directed BDOs and field staff to remain responsive and ensure prompt grievance redressal.

The visit was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Kalakote Tanveer Ahmed, Assistant Commissioner Development Rajouri Auqil Nuvaid, and concerned Block Development Officers.

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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