SRINAGAR: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election departments, Javid Ahmad Dar addressed the valedictory session of Food Safety and Health Conclave 2025 at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) here today.

The Conclave was organised by SKIMS in collaboration with Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) Kashmir, bringing together experts, policymakers, and scientists to deliberate on strengthening food safety and public health in Jammu & Kashmir.

 Director SKIMS & EOSG, Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie; President AIIMS Kalyani, Prof. Yoginder Kumar Gupta; Secretary Science & Technology, Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, medical experts, medical professionals, WHO representatives, legal experts, and religious scholars were also present on the occasion.

In his address, the Minister announced that 7,500 hectares have been identified across Jammu & Kashmir for natural farming to minimise pesticide use and promote sustainable agriculture. He said the Government is implementing flagship programmes to support farmers and enhance productivity.

Referring to recent food safety concerns, he noted that the Government and its enforcement wings acted swiftly and effectively. ā€œChecks and balances have been considerably strengthened to safeguard public interest,ā€ he said, adding that scientists are the real intellectual and ethical assets of the nation.

He emphasised that food safety must be pursued not only through regulatory measures but also through societal awareness and moral responsibility. He appreciated SKIMS and SKUAST-K for taking the lead in this initiative.

The Conclave featured expert discussions and panel session aimed at formulating guidelines for food safety and preparing a white paper for submission to the Government.

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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