• Emphasises timely DPR preparation and identification of High-Value Disaster Mitigation Projects in the District

BUDGAM: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-din Bhat, today chaired a meeting here in the Conference Hall to review and identify works to be taken up under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) Disaster Mitigation component, in view of the massive floods during 2025–26.

During the meeting, the DC held a detailed and threadbare discussion on the assessment of damages caused to public infrastructure due to recent floods and deliberated upon the identification of new projects focusing on reconstruction of damaged assets, flood mitigation, disaster risk reduction and strengthening of long-term resilience across the district.

The  DC Informed that the Government of India has approved a special allocation under SASCI for disaster mitigation works and that the utilization timeline for these works is up to 31st August, 2026.  He emphasized that all proposals must strictly adhere to the guidelines issued under the scheme and should be based on proper technical assessment and ground verification.

The DC directed all concerned departments to undertake detailed damage assessments and identify projects that address both immediate restoration needs as well as long-term mitigation of disaster risks.  He stressed that the focus should remain on roads, water supply, power infrastructure, flood control works, schools, rural housing, universities and other critical infrastructure, which have a direct bearing on public safety and essential services.

He further directed that Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) and cost estimates be prepared and finalized within a week’s time, ensuring technical soundness, financial viability and sustainability of the proposed works.  The DC also  instructed that similar works be collated district-wise to form larger value projects, wherever feasible, so that each project meets the prescribed minimum financial threshold under SASCI.

The DC emphasized the importance of inter-departmental coordination, timely submission of proposals and strict adherence to timelines, stating that quality and impactful projects would ensure optimal utilization of funds and enhance the district’s disaster preparedness and resilience against future calamities.

The DC directed all concerned departments to expedite the preparation and submission of flood mitigation and disaster resilience projects under SASCI within the stipulated timeframe. The meeting was attended by the SE R&B Budgam, SE Hydraulic budgam, CPO budgam,CEO Budgam, ACD Budgam ,Executive Engineer PMGSY Budgam, Executive Engineer I&FC Budgam, Executive Engineer Flood Spill Channel, Executive Engineer R&B budgam and Executive Engineer Power Development Department were present in the meeting.

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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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