JAMMU: A two-day Faculty Development Programme (FDP) for DIET faculty along with ZNO’s of District Jammu in collaboration  with SCERT Jammu was successfully conducted from July 9 to 10, 2025, under the innovative outreach initiative “SCERT on Wheels,” aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and fostering academic collaboration between JKSCERT and DIETs across Jammu Division. The programme was jointly organised by DIET Jammu and the JK SCERT Divisional Office Jammu, under the guidance of Dr. Sindhu Kapoor, Joint Director, JK SCERT Jammu Division. A total of 45 trainees including 22 DIET Faculty (including HOD’s) and 23 ZNOs were sensitized during this two day FDP.

The programme was formally inaugurated by Sh. R. G. Dogra, Principal, DIET Jammu, who highlighted the importance of capacity building and inter-institutional synergy in realising the goals outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The core objectives of the FDP were to develop a comprehensive understanding of the mandate, vision and structure of SCERT and DIETs as per NEP 2020, clarify specific roles and responsibilities, familiarise faculty with departmental functioning and promote mechanisms for improved coordination and academic support at the grassroots level.

A team of seasoned officers from JKSCERT Jammu and SCERT Central served as resource persons and conducted sessions on a variety of crucial academic themes. Mr. Paawan Vivek, Sr. Academic Officer, conducted the orientation session on the programme, initiatives undertaken and achievements of SCERT along with essentials of the training design and modules and NEP 2020. Ms. Manu Vasudeva AO delivered sessions on NEP 2020 and SARTHAQ tasks implications and road map for SCERT and DIET’s. Dr. Harpreet Kour covered topics related to the role, responsibilities and functioning of DIET’s and SCERT, planning and monitoring for effective implementations of various objectives of SCERT and challenges in Educational research. Dr. Sunita Sharma guided participants on developing content and training program based on NCF-SE competencies. Mr. Rajesh Hali from SCERT Central spoke on the vision for DIETs of Excellence, and Dr. Balgar Singh provided insights into national Digital initiatives and institutional alignment.

Participants gained enhanced conceptual clarity on DIET & SCERT’s mandate, deeper insights into departmental roles, and practical strategies for collaboration and institutional improvement. In his valedictory address, R.G Dogra lauded the collaborative efforts and emphasised that the realisation of NEP 2020 depends on how effectively SCERTs and DIETs bring policy into practice. He urged DIET faculty to act as changemakers, document best practices and lead with innovation and commitment. He described the FDP not just as a training programme, but as a call for strategic academic leadership at the grassroots.

The programme was coordinated under the supervision of Dr. Romesh Kumar, Head of Department, DIET Jammu. The vote of thanks was delivered by. Kanwal Preet Kour HOD and the sessions were anchored by Ms. Tripta Charak, Lecturer, DIET Jammu. The success of this initiative marks another step in reaffirming SCERT’s commitment to institutional excellence, grassroots empowerment and the transformation of school education in line with the vision of NEP 2020.

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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