JAMMU: As part of the ongoing awareness campaign under “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan,” the Cultural Unit, Department of Information and Public Relations Jammu, organised symposiums and cultural programmes at two educational institutions Government Higher Secondary School, Purmandal, Samba and Government Middle School, Dhoon, Jammu, with an aim to sensitize students and the community about the harmful effects of drug abuse.

At Government Higher Secondary School Purmandal, as many as twenty-one students participated in the symposium and cultural activities, presenting poems, skits and dances themed on the importance of a drug-free life and youth empowerment. The performances drew wide appreciation from the audience for their creativity and message-oriented content.

The competition was judged by Nidhi Mahajan, Kanwaljeet Kour and Kiran Salgotra. The first prize was awarded to Bhawana Bhagat, second prize went to Anishika Bhagat and third prize was bagged by Mansi Devi, while consolation prizes were given to Sahil Singh and Radhika Dubey. The Chief Guest and Principal of the School Aruna lauded the Department of Information and Public Relations for organising such meaningful programmes to motivate youth towards a drug-free and responsible life.

Meanwhile, a symposium was held at Government Middle School, Dhoon (Jammu) in which nine students shared their thoughts on the ill effects of drug addiction and the need for a united stand against the menace. The event was judged by Gharu Ram, Sachin Sharma and   Parvez Akhter. Kunal Sangotra secured the first prize, Jivika Sharma won the second prize, and Vansh Sangotra bagged the third prize, while consolation prizes were given to Jatin Sangotra and Anjali Devi.

The Chief Guest and Head Master of the School Parvez Akhter appreciated the initiative of the Department of Information and Public Relations to conduct awareness programmes through creative and participatory formats like symposiums and cultural events, which help in engaging the young generation effectively.

Both events witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, staff members, and officials of the Information Department, who reiterated their commitment to building a “Nasha Mukt Bharat” (Drug-Free India) through awareness, education and collective action. The entire programme was conducted under the guidance of Joint Director Information, Jammu and supervision of Cultural Officer, Department of Information and Public Relations, Jammu.

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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