BANDIPORA: The Jammu & Kashmir Forest Department, in collaboration with the Kashmir Forest Training School Chitternar today organised a one-day Training Workshop on the Forest Rights Act (FRA) and its implementation at Kashmir Forest Training (KFT) School Chitternar. The workshop witnessed participation from Range Officers of various ranges of Kashmir Division and Block Officers from multiple forest divisions.

speaking on the occasion, , Principal, KFT School, Davinder Pal Singh, emphasised the importance of capacity building for strengthening grassroots forest governance. He highlighted the critical role of field officers in implementing the Forest Rights Act with sensitivity and responsibility.

The technical sessions were led by  Divisional Forest Officer Bandipora, Waseem Farooq Mir and  Divisional Forest Officer Awantipora, Mudasir Mehmood Malik, who served as the resource person for the workshop. Both officers delivered comprehensive and insightful presentations, explaining the provisions, procedures, and practical aspects of the Forest Rights Act. Their lectures provided officers with clarity on legal frameworks, community rights, and field-level implementation challenges.

The workshop created a platform for open interaction, experience sharing, and strengthening coordination among field officers.  Participants expressed that the training not only enhanced their understanding of the Act but also deepened their commitment to ensuring fair and transparent execution of forest rights at the grassroots level. At the conclusion of the programme, certificates were distributed among all participating officers and officials, acknowledging their dedication and successful completion of the training.

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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