SHOPIAN: To promote awareness and implementation of the Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) under the RAMP (Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance) programme, District Industries Centre (DIC), Shopian hosted a district-level workshop at Mini-Secretariat Shopian. RAMP programme is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of MSME, Government of India, supported by the World Bank.

The workshop brought together key stakeholders from across the MSME ecosystem of the district Shopian, including the General Manager, DIC, DDM NABARD, Lead District Manager (LDM), DPM National Rural Livelihood Mission, DNO Entrepreneurship Development Institute, representatives from the Department of Cooperatives, Handicrafts, Handloom and Industrial Association IE Aglar/ IE Gagren.

The primary objective of the workshop was to sensitize stakeholders on the strategic priorities outlined under the SIP, which aims to enhance the capacity, competitiveness, and resilience of MSMEs in the district.

In his keynote address, General Manager, DIC Shopian, Aijaz Ahmad Bhat emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in driving sustainable growth for the MSME sector. The RAMP programme, through the SIP framework offers a structured roadmap to bridge existing gaps in infrastructure, finance, and market access for our local entrepreneurs, he noted.

As the knowledge and implementation partner under RAMP, Experts from Grant Thornton Bharat LLP delivered a detailed presentation on the Strategic Investment Plan, outlining the main objectives, priority reform areas, and district-specific strategies for MSME development. The team highlighted the importance of institutional strengthening, access to finance, digital enablement, and market integration, with a focus on actionable steps tailored for Shopian district.

DDM NABARD and LDM Shopian spoke about credit linkage, financial inclusion, and institutional support available for MSMEs. Meanwhile, DPM NRLM and representatives from Cooperatives, Handicrafts and Handloom outlined various schemes and initiatives designed to support artisans, weavers, SHGs, and rural entrepreneurs.

Interactive sessions provided a platform for open discussion, where representatives from Industrial Association IE Gagran/ IE Aglar and departmental representatives shared ideas, addressed challenges, and explored ways to leverage the RAMP initiative effectively.

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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