BANDIPORE: The District Official Rugby Championship Bandipore 2025 was inaugurated today with great enthusiasm at Government Higher Secondary School Nadihal, Bandipore. The event was formally inaugurated by the Worthy Additional Deputy Commissioner Bandipore, Shri Zaffar Hussain Shawl, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

Veteran sports personality and Former Zonal Physical Education Officer Mr. Sunnaullah Mir was present as the Guest of Honour, alongside the dedicated staff of GHSS Nadihal and officials from the Department of Youth Services and Sports. The championship witnessed vibrant participation from over 26 boys’ and girls’ teams, representing various clubs and regions across District Bandipore. Teams from all age categories are competing with passion and determination.

In his address to the young rugby athletes, ADC Shri Zaffar Hussain Shawl expressed deep appreciation for their commitment and spirit. “Rugby is a unique and globally recognized sport, and witnessing our Bandipore athletes, many of whom have represented at the national level, is truly inspiring,” he said. He lauded the efforts of the organisers and emphasized the need for such initiatives, especially during times when the youth need positive engagement to steer away from harmful distractions. The championship is being held under the banner of Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyaan, reinforcing the message of a drug-free and empowered youth.

Shri Faisal Ali Dar, Brand Ambassador of Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyaan and a prominent youth mentor, also addressed the gathering. “This is not just a game. It’s a movement—a stand against drug abuse. Sports is one of the strongest platforms to inspire and channelise our youth toward a better future,” he remarked. He thanked the District Administration Bandipore and Youth Services and Sports Department for their continued support and guidance. “This is a war against drugs, and we must fight it together as responsible citizens,” Dar added.

He further stated that this championship will serve as a stepping stone for many talented athletes to prove themselves at higher levels. He also shared that a strong representation from Bandipore is expected in the upcoming J&K UT Level Rugby Championship scheduled to be held in Srinagar. The championship not only highlights the growing interest in rugby in the region but also sends a powerful message of unity, discipline, and resilience through sports.

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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