GANDERBAL & HANDWARA: Continuing its efforts to ensure a healthy and drug-free environment for students, J&K Police has launched a special drive against the illegal sale of cigarettes and tobacco products near educational institutions and public places in Ganderbal & Handwara.

In Ganderbal, during the drive, several shops located near Schools and public places were inspected at Beehama, Duderhama, Gangerhama, Kangan, Safapora, Kondbal, Gutlibagh, Shadipora, Nagbal, Gund, Kullan and Sonamarg strict action was taken against those found violating the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA).

The initiative aims to curb the easy availability of tobacco products to minors and to promote public awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use. J&K Police has also sensitized shopkeepers about the legal restrictions on selling tobacco products within 100 yards of school premises and warned that any violation will attract strict legal consequences.

While reaffirming commitment towards community well-being, SSP Ganderbal Shri Khalil Ahmad Poswal-JKPS urged parents, teachers, and civil society members to actively support this campaign by reporting such violations to the nearest police station.

In Handwara, J&K Police, in collaboration with the Executive Magistrate Handwara, conducted a special checking drive in Handwara town targeting shops located within a 100-meter radius of educational institutions. During the course of checking, two shops were sealed for violating COTPA regulations, and a large quantity of tobacco products was seized on the spot.

The action was taken in the presence of the Executive Magistrate, ensuring transparency and adherence to due legal procedure. J&K Police remains dedicated to protecting the youth from the menace of addiction and ensuring a safe, healthy environment for their growth and education.

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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