• DC urges youth to work for nation building

KATHUA: The District Youth Services and Sports Department Kathua today organized the Inter-Zone District Level National Youth Festival under the “Viksit Bharat” campaign, featuring a vibrant display of creativity, culture, and youthful enthusiasm.

Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and formally inaugurated the festival by lighting the traditional lamp. He was accompanied by Vice Principal Government Degree College Kathua Rakesh Singh Jasrotia as the Guest of Honour. Among others present included District Social Welfare Officer Varun Chaudhary and Excise and Taxation Officer Mudasir Ji.

The event, held in the auditorium of the College, brought together talented youth from across the educational zones of the district. Participants exhibited their artistic and intellectual potential in a range of competitions including Folk Dance, Folk Song, Declamation, Story Writing, Painting and Poetry.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner lauded the efforts of the young participants and said that such festivals serve as important platforms for the youth to express their creativity, strengthen cultural ties, and move closer to achieving their aspirations under the spirit of Viksit Bharat.

As a gesture of encouragement, the Excise and Taxation Department Kathua extended its support to the initiative by distributing refreshments among the participants, adding to the spirit of camaraderie and collective celebration.

  Zone Malhar emerged as the winner in the Folk Song category followed by Zone Bhaddu as runner-up, while Zone Kathua bagged the top position in both Folk Dance and Poetry, with Zone Billawar and Zone Malhar securing runner-up positions respectively. In Story Writing and Declamation, Zone Hiranagar took the lead with Zone Sallan finishing as runner-up in both categories, whereas Zone Kathua also clinched the first place in Painting, followed by Zone Marheen.

At the end, District Youth Services and Sports Officer Sunil Singh Sambyal presented trophies to the winning and runner-up teams and commended all participants for their remarkable performances and enthusiasm.

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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