JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir BJP spokesperson and former Vice Chairman Balbir Ram Rattan described the approval of 50 MBBS seats for Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence (SMVDIME), Kakryal, by the National Medical Commission, as a historic achievement and a significant gift for the youth of the region. This private medical college will now begin the admission process for its first batch in the MBBS course starting from the academic session 2025–26.

Balbir Ram Rattan said that this achievement brings a golden opportunity not only for Reasi district but for the youth across Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that the institute, run by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, has already been delivering excellent healthcare services, and with the permission to offer MBBS education, it will now set a new benchmark in the field of medical education and healthcare.

He added that just a few days ago, 190 MBBS seats were allocated to five district-level medical colleges in Jammu and Kashmir, and the Ayurvedic College in Akhnoor also received approval from the government for six postgraduate courses. Now, students from the region will no longer need to go to other states for high-quality medical education.

Balbir said that SMVDIME will provide modern and world-class medical education to the youth within their own state, which will also reduce both financial and psychological burdens.

He attributed this development to the visionary leadership of central government and the Lieutenant Governor's administration, stating that it aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas” (Together with all, development for all, trust of all, effort by all). He said this decision will bring about a revolutionary transformation in the fields of health and education. It will not only create educational opportunities for youth but also improve the quality of healthcare services in the future.

He expressed hope that in the coming years, more MBBS seats will be allocated to medical institutions in Jammu and Kashmir, and these institutes will be counted among the leading medical institutions in North India.

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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