SRINAGAR: On the eve of ‘World No Tobacco Day-2025,’ the State Tobacco Control Cell (STCC), Directorate of Health Services Kashmir organized a Walkathon in collaboration with stakeholders from the Education Department, with active support from the Jammu & Kashmir Police and District Administration Srinagar.

Despite incessant rains, the event witnessed enthusiastic participation of more than 300 individuals, including students, teachers, healthcare professionals, officers, volunteers, and members of the civil society. The walkathon commenced from Lalit Ghat and concluded at Nehru Park, Srinagar, symbolizing a collective resolve against tobacco use.

The walkathon was flagged off by Dr Jehangir Bakshi, Director Health Services Kashmir where other officials including Dr Jehanzaib Tanki (Deputy Director Dentistry) Nodal Officer NTCP Kashmir, Deputy Director Headquarters, Chief Accounts officer, Deputy Director Schemes, Medical Superintendent JLNM Hospital, Assistant Directors DHSK, State Surveillance Officer Kashmir and Chief Medical Officer Srinagar, were also present.

Addressing the participants, Director Health emphasized the importance of building a tobacco-free society and urged individuals from all walks of life to avoid smoking for a healthier life. He highlighted the pressing need to protect the youth from the tobacco industry's evolving strategies, especially tactics including the use of flavors, attractive packaging, and marketing strategies that mimic sweets or use cartoon characters to entice youth.

He emphasized the role of youth, health professionals and community leaders in advocating for a healthier, smoke-free future. The walkathon was part of a broader awareness campaign aligned with the World Health Organization (WHO) theme for World No Tobacco Day 2025, ‘Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products.’

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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