JAMMU: A vibrant Capacity Building Workshop cum Entrepreneurship Mela was today organised here at Government Polytechnic College, Bikram Chowk by the Employment Department in collaboration with the Skill Development Department. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, faculty and key stakeholders across the region, aimed at fostering entrepreneurial spirit and enhancing skill development among youth.

The mela was inaugurated by MLA Marh Surinder Kumar, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his address, the MLA emphasised the importance of empowering youth with the right skill sets, entrepreneurial mindset and exposure to real-world market dynamics to build a self-reliant and progressive society. He underscored the value of persistent effort and youth empowerment through entrepreneurship, urging the participants to ā€œenable yourself to be able to employ others.ā€ He also stressed the need for greater participation by women entrepreneurs.

The event saw the presence of Principals from various Polytechnics and ITIs, government officials and students from ITI and Polytechnic institutions. A series of informative and engaging counselling and awareness sessions were conducted to support and guide aspiring entrepreneurs. Career counselling sessions were conducted by the Sub-Regional Employment Officer, offering insights into skill development initiatives, available opportunities and career planning. Focussed sessions on skill development were delivered by faculty members of the Polytechnic College, showcasing various programmes and pathways.

A session titled ā€œKnow the Market Challengeā€ was conducted by the District Nodal Officer, JKEDI (Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute), enlightening students on market research, consumer needs and product positioning. An interactive session by representatives of J&K Bank provided valuable information on financial schemes and credit support for startups and MSMEs under Mission YUVA. Additionally, the CCO, DE&CC Jammu conducted demonstration sessions on the Mission Yuva App modules and portal.

Practical demonstration of 3-D printing, robotics, plumbing, electrical engineering was also included along with the side courses on soft skill development and digital tools training in District Jammu, enriching the learning experience and providing hands-on exposure to modern technologies. Demonstration stalls set up by students displayed innovative projects and entrepreneurial ideas, while participation from local entrepreneurs added a practical dimension to the event as they showcased their products and shared their journeys to inspire budding entrepreneurs.

A special faculty orientation session on ā€œMission YUVAā€ was also held, conducted by Assistant Director, DE&CC Jammu, Mukhlis Ali, to familiarise educators with the vision and implementation strategies of the mission. Deputy Director Employment, DE&CC Jammu, Sunaina Saini expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, participants and organisers for their contribution in making the event a grand success. She also highlighted the importance of such initiatives in aligning education with the demands of the modern economy. The mela concluded with a vote of thanks and a renewed commitment towards fostering innovation, entrepreneurship and skill development in Jammu and Kashmir.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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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