SRINAGAR: The Indian Dental Association (IDA) Kashmir Central Branch held a special interaction session with Dr. L. Swasticharan, Deputy Director General / Director of Emergency Medical Relief (EMR) and National Head of the National Oral Health Programme (NOHP) at Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. 

The meeting was led by Prof. Dr. H.U. Malik, senior dental academician and prominent member of IDA, along with Dr. Adil Malik, Secretary IDA Kashmir Central Branch, and Dr. Syed Ishtiyaq Geelani, President IDA Kashmir Central Branch. The delegation highlighted the growing concern regarding the rising unemployment among dental surgeons in Jammu & Kashmir. 

A brief but constructive discussion was held regarding the inclusion of dental surgeons under the National Health Mission (NHM), similar to the model adopted in other states. Dr. Swasticharan assured the delegation that the matter will be taken up positively and appropriate steps will be explored to integrate dental professionals within public health frameworks. 

On behalf of the branch, Dr. Humaira, Editor of IDA Kashmir Central Branch, submitted a comprehensive memorandum titled ā€œStrengthening Oral Health Services in Jammu & Kashmirā€, along with a proposal for establishing a Regional Centre of Excellence in Dentistry in the Kashmir region. 

The delegation also emphasized the urgent need to establish dedicated dental units at the primary healthcare levels across J&K, to ensure accessibility of oral healthcare in underserved areas. It was mutually agreed that strong policy interventions, backed by data and collaboration between central and regional stakeholders, are crucial for improving the overall oral health landscape in the Union Territory.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following šŸ‘‡