REASI: Deputy Commissioner Reasi  Nidhi Malik today chaired a meeting of the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) to review and strengthen animal welfare initiatives in the district. During the meeting, DC held a detailed discussion on the establishment of a veterinary facility and shelter home for sick and injured animals in collaboration with People for Animals Public Policy Foundation and Vantara. The proposed facility will serve as a one-stop center for treatment and rehabilitation, ensuring comprehensive care and shelter for animals in need.

A parcel of land belonging to the Animal Husbandry Department at Parathal village (Serwad), Tehsil Katra has been selected for the project. The Deputy Commissioner directed the Chief Animal Husbandry Officer to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the department to expedite the setting up of the veterinary hospital on the site.

She further highlighted that the facility will be constructed, managed, and operated by People for Animals Public Policy Foundation and Vantara. During the meeting, a new SPCA Committee was also constituted in line with the latest guidelines. As per the new structure, the Deputy Commissioner will serve as the Chairperson, the CAHO as the Member Secretary, with the ACR and all SDMs as members. Ms. Malik emphasized that while the SPCA’s role is particularly critical in Katra, given the extensive use of horses and mules during the Yatra, its mandate must extend to addressing animal welfare across the entire district.

DC Nidhi Malik also instructed officers to conduct a comprehensive performance review of all cow shelters operating in the district, including those situated on state lands and present a detailed status report in the next meeting. Additionally, the Deputy Commissioner directed officials to submit a financial audit report of the SPCA, covering its existing funds and overall financial status, in compliance with prescribed guidelines and bylaws. The meeting was attended by SDM Katra Piyush Dhotra, DySP Vishal Singh Jamwal, Tehsildar Katra, CAHO, EO MC Katra and other concerned officers.

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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