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

JAMMU: Secretary, Rural Development Department (RDD) and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, today chaired a review meeting to assess the progress of projects funded under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) and implementation of SNA-SPARSH across Jammu and Kashmir.

The Secretary undertook a division-wise and project-wise review, appreciating the efforts of executing agencies while stressing strict adherence to timelines. He underscored that SASCI projects are critical investments aimed at strengthening rural infrastructure, local governance, and community welfare.

“Our priority is timely completion of these projects to unlock their full economic potential. Every rupee must be optimally utilised, and bottlenecks resolved on priority,” Secretary said.

While reviewing SASCI, he informed that loan assistance of â‚č21.10 crore has been sanctioned for RDD projects in both divisions. He highlighted Finance Department directives requiring utilisation of at least 75 percent of the sanctioned amount, with non-viable projects to be surrendered for reallocation. Departments must demonstrate the capacity to incur a minimum expenditure of â‚č2 crore during the financial year, failing which funds may be withdrawn.

In the Kashmir Division, four major infrastructure projects have been sanctioned, including residential accommodation for PRIs/Protected Persons at Bandipora and 2-BHK residential apartments with dormitory for BDC at Pulwama. The DDC Office Building at Baramulla has completed structural works, with electrical installations underway, and is targeted for completion by March 2026.

In the Jammu Division, six projects have been approved under SASCI, including construction of the DDC Building at Kishtwar and 2-BHK residential accommodation for DDC/PRI members at Jammu, Birwan (Udhampur), Kambal Danga (Reasi), Kathua, and Poonch.

To ensure smooth execution, the Secretary directed concerned agencies to expedite pending works, resolve land and DPR-related issues, and maintain close coordination with the Finance Department for timely re-appropriation of funds to avoid lapsing of savings.

Reviewing the status of SNA-SPARSH for 2025-26, it was informed that out of 13 CSS/SLS schemes onboarded, mother sanctions have been received for 11 schemes, while two are pending. The Secretary stressed close monitoring to ensure seamless fund flow and directed officers to expedite pending sanctions, bill processing, system integration, FTO generation, and DSC enrolment.

He emphasised that efficient financial management and real-time expenditure tracking are essential to ensure transparency and effective delivery of development outcomes at the grassroots level.

The meeting was attended by DG Rural Sanitation Anu Malhotra; Directors RDD Kashmir and Jammu; Director Finance; COO Himayat; Joint Director Planning; Additional Secretary RDD≺ Chief Engineer PW(R&B); Superintending Engineers REW Jammu/Kashmir; and other senior officers.

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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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