JAMMU:  In an initiative that foregrounds youth participation in urban governance, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) launched Phase-II of the Swachhata Internship Programme. The effort seeks to mobilise a group of student interns as agents of behavioural change, linking classroom learning with community action to advance the city’s sustainability goals.

The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Devansh Yadav, Commissioner, JMC, at Government High School, City Chowk. It marks the beginning of a series of structured workshops to be conducted across schools in Jammu city.

Addressing students, Dr. Yadav described them as the “true architects of a cleaner future”, underscoring that environmental stewardship must be inculcated early. Invoking Mahatma Gandhi’s quote that “cleanliness is next to godliness”, he said that embedding such values in young minds would translate into sustained civic responsibility in the years ahead. He also expressed satisfaction at the enthusiasm displayed by students, noting that such engagement is critical to converting awareness into action.

In the second phase of the Swachhata Internship Programme, the focus has been expanded to deepen practical engagement and field-based learning, enabling students to move beyond awareness towards active participation in waste management and sustainability practices.

The programme includes practical training on waste segregation at source, demonstrations on composting of kitchen waste and awareness sessions on menstrual hygiene and plastic pollution. Field visits to Material Recovery Facilities are also planned to provide students with first-hand exposure to scientific waste management systems.

The initiative reflects a broader shift towards participatory governance, with civic bodies increasingly relying on youth-led interventions to strengthen environmental outcomes at the grassroot.

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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