BANDIPORA: As part of the ongoing 100 Day Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, Mission Vatsalya (Child Protection Services), Bandipora, organized a district-wide anti-tobacco awareness and enforcement drive around educational institutions to protect children from substance abuse.

The campaign covered schools in Nahidal, Garoora, Argam, Ajas, Sudnara, SK Payeen, SK Bala, Madwan, and Hajin. Officials inspected shops operating near schools and educated shopkeepers about the harmful effects of tobacco on children and adolescents.

During the drive, vendors were warned against selling tobacco products near educational institutions and were informed about the provisions of Section 77 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which prohibits supplying intoxicating substances, including tobacco to minors. Authorities also highlighted the penalties for violating the law.

Mission Vatsalya officials appealed to the public to support child protection efforts by reporting violations through Child Helpline 1098 or Emergency Helpline 112. Anti-tobacco awareness posters were installed at strategic locations near schools to spread awareness about the dangers of tobacco use. The team also imposed fines on violators found breaching regulations, demonstrating the administration's commitment to strict enforcement.

 Members of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) and Juvenile Justice Board (JJB), including Mohd Hashim Rather and Rasikh Ramzan, participated in the initiative. Officials stated that the drive is part of the government's broader efforts to create a safe, healthy, and child-friendly environment under the Nasha Mukt J&K campaign.  Similar awareness and enforcement programmes will continue to safeguard children and curb tobacco and drug abuse across Bandipora district.

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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