Dear Readers, JK Monitor has always been committed to keeping you informed with news and updates that matter. Today, we invite you to become a part of our journey and help us continue serving you. We appeal to our readers, well-wishers, and supporters of independent journalism to come forward and contribute towards the continued growth and sustainability of JK Monitor. Every contribution, big or small, is a valuable gesture of support. JK Monitor is more than a news platform; it is a voice we build together. Your support can help keep that voice strong. To contribute or know more, please contact us at 9906103001. Stand with JK Monitor. Support independent journalism.

SRINAGAR: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today chaired a meeting of the High Powered Committee (HPC) constituted for reviewing the implementation of NABARD projects being executed under various tranches of the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF).

The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production Department; Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works (R&B); Additional Chief Secretary, Finance; Director General, Resources; Chief General Manager, NABARD; and senior officers from Health, Jal Shakti and other concerned departments.

The Chief Secretary impressed upon the concerned departments to maintain a ready shelf of projects complete in all respects, including Administrative Approval and Technical Sanction, so that the same can be submitted to NABARD immediately upon the opening of a new RIDF tranche or receipt of sanction, thereby ensuring timely appraisal, approval and commencement of works without any avoidable delay.

The Chief Secretary emphasised that RIDF has emerged as one of the most significant sources of institutional finance for strengthening rural infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. He observed that the successful implementation of these projects is vital for improving rural connectivity, irrigation facilities, agricultural productivity, drinking water infrastructure, horticulture, fisheries and other essential public services.

He further instructed the departments to closely monitor the physical and financial progress of each project, conduct periodic field inspections, strengthen inter-departmental coordination and ensure compliance with NABARD guidelines. The executing agencies were also advised to maintain the highest standards of quality, transparency and accountability during project implementation.

On this occasion the Additional Chief Secretary,  Finance, Shailendra Kumar underscored the need for regular monitoring at all administrative levels so that the benefits of RIDF investments reach efficiently to the intended beneficiaries. He suggested constitution of District level monitoring Committees under the respective Deputy Commissioners for time-bound implementation of such projects here.

A detailed presentation was made by CGM, NABARD informing the Committee that 908 projects sanctioned under RIDF Tranches XXVIII to XXXI involve a cumulative loan assistance of ₹4,303.08 crore, against which an amount of ₹2,301.48 crore has been disbursed so far. Additionally out of the total sanctioned projects, 157 projects have been completed, while 751 projects are presently under execution.

The Committee also reviewed the department-wise implementation status of RIDF projects. It was informed that the Public Works Department (PWD) accounts for the largest share with 660 projects involving a total loan assistance of ₹2,987.25 crore, followed by the Jal Shakti Department with 36 projects worth ₹491.93 crore, the Agriculture Production Department (APD) with 110 projects involving ₹414.27 crore, the Horticulture Department with 19 projects worth ₹104.52 crore, the Animal/Sheep Husbandry & Fisheries Department with 63 projects amounting to ₹190.14 crore, and H&ME with 20 projects involving ₹114.97 crore.

Overall, 908 projects with a cumulative loan assistance of ₹4,303.08 crore have been sanctioned under RIDF Tranches XXVIII to XXXI, against which ₹2,301.48 crore has been disbursed. A total of 157 projects have been completed, while 751 projects are under execution, with 193 Scheme Monitoring Proformas (SMPs) currently under monitoring.

The meeting concluded with a comprehensive review of department-wise progress, identification of critical issues requiring immediate intervention, and issuance of directions for ensuring timely completion of all ongoing RIDF projects across the Union Territory.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇