KULGAM: In order to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and raise awareness about tobacco control measures in the district, a one-day workshop of the District Level Coordination Committee (DLCC) was organized today in Kulgam under the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003. The workshop witnessed the participation of key officials from the district administration, police department, health sector and education besides civil society organizations.

Experts delivered presentations on various aspects of COTPA, emphasizing the importance of creating a tobacco-free environment, particularly in public places and around educational institutions. Speaking on the occasion, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Kulgam, Viqar Ahmed Giri highlighted the health risks associated with tobacco use and stressed the need for collective action to ensure effective implementation of COTPA provisions.

Participants also engaged in interactive sessions and discussions, focused on challenges in enforcement and strategies for community involvement in tobacco control efforts. The workshop concluded with a reaffirmation of the district's commitment to curbing tobacco use and promoting healthier lifestyles.

The programme was organized  under the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) by the District  Healh Society Kulgam in collaboration with the Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir (DHSK) and District Adminstration Kulgam. Experts from DHSK, Dr. Majid Shafi and Dr. Syma Sidiq, delivered insightful sessions on the National Tobacco Control Programme, the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, and various legal and administrative provisions essential for effective enforcement.

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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