SRINAGAR: In a spirited initiative to mark World Environment Day (WED) 2025, the Department of Youth Services and Sports (YSS), J&K, launched a week-long campaign across all the 20 districts of the Union Territory under the global theme "Ending Plastic Pollution Globally". The campaign, aligned with the directives of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), aims to mobilize youth and communities towards sustainable environmental practices.

The campaign commenced on Thursday with Cyclothons organised in multiple districts, witnessing overwhelming participation from students, athletes, and local populace. The events were designed to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of plastic pollution while promoting eco-friendly alternatives.

District-wise Highlights of Day 1 Activities:

Ganderbal Sets the Tone with Vibrant Cyclothon. In Zone Ganderbal, a dynamic Cyclothon was flagged off from the Clock Tower Ganderbal passing through Fatehpora Road before concluding at the Government College of Physical Education (GCOPE), Gadoora. A total of 54 participants, including boys, girls, and staff members, cycled through the route, spreading the message of plastic-free living. The event concluded with participants being felicitated with medals and mementos for their enthusiastic involvement.

Meanwhile Reasi Joins the Movement with Enthusiastic Turnout. YSS organized a Cyclothon under the leadership of DG YSS. Addressing the participants, District Youth Services and Sports Officer emphasized the need for collective action to combat plastic pollution. The event saw active participation from students and local residents, who carried placards advocating for sustainable living.

Budgam Conducts Simultaneous Cyclothons Across 12 sports Zones. In a remarkable display of unity, YSS organized Cyclothons in all 12 zones of the district. DYSSO Budgam, commended the efforts of students, teachers, and volunteers. He highlighted the role of youth in driving environmental change, stating, ā€œToday’s event is a step forward in creating a plastic-free Budgam."

Bandipora, Kathua, and Kulgam Witness Strong Participation. Bandipora saw 138 male cyclists participating in Cyclothons across all zones. In Kathua, a Cycle Rally was flagged off from HSS Boys Kathua with 104 cyclists spreading awareness on plastic pollution. Kulgam’s Zone Yaripora organized a Cyclothon in Bugam, where 17 participants showcased their commitment to environmental conservation.

Baramulla Leads with Largest Turnout.

DYSS Baramulla recorded one of the highest participations, with events held across multiple zones: 45 students cycled from HS Brath-e-Kalan to Bus Stand Brath-e-Kalan. In Zone Singpora Pattan 48 girls and 80 boys participated. In Zone Dangiwacha, a massive 170 boys and 155 girls joined the Cyclothon. In Zone Singpora Kalan 190 students pedaled for the cause. Meanwhile in sports Zone Chandanwari 130 cyclists took part. The campaign will continue with a series of engaging activities till June 5th. The campaign has already garnered tremendous public support, with thousands of students, educators, and commoners actively participating.

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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