JAMMU: The three-day Second Contact Session of the Sector Connect Training Program on Field Epidemiology in One Health (FEPOH) concluded successfully today in Jammu. Organized by the Directorate of Health Services Jammu with the support of the National Health Mission (NHM) J&K and the State Surveillance Unit (SSU), the program focused on strengthening integrated public health response preparedness for emerging zoonotic diseases, climate change, antimicrobial resistance, and biodiversity loss.

Held under the leadership of Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary, Health and Medical Education, J&K, and the supervision of Dr. Rakesh Magotra, Director, Health Services Jammu, the workshop witnessed participation from professionals representing Health, Animal Husbandry, Wildlife, and Food Safety departments from all districts of the Jammu division.

Eminent experts including Dr. Anil Kumar, Principal Advisor, NCDC, New Delhi, and Dr. Sanket Vasant Kulkarni Joint Director, NCDC New Delhi contributed to the program, enriching participants with valuable insights and expertise.

Dr. Harjeet Rai, State Surveillance Officer, Jammu, highlighted that a strong inter-sectoral approach is essential in tackling public health challenges. He emphasized that collaboration between the health, animal, and environmental sectors is key to detecting and responding effectively to emerging zoonotic diseases, environmental health threats, and antimicrobial resistance. He commended the active participation of attendees and stated that by sharing expertise and strengthening coordination, we can effectively manage public health risks and enhance disease surveillance capabilities in the region.

The training comprised technical sessions, case studies, and hands-on exercises to enhance skills in disease surveillance, data management, and public health communication. Experts from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) led the sessions, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.

A key highlight of the program was the case presentations by participants from the human, animal, wild life and food safety sectors. These presentations were reviewed by experts, who provided constructive feedback to strengthen the participants' analytical and problem-solving capabilities.

The successful completion of this second contact session of Sector Connect Training Program highlights the dedication of all participating sectors toward a unified and proactive approach to public health challenges. This training has set the foundation for continued collaboration and knowledge exchange, ensuring a well-coordinated response to emerging health threats. The Directorate of Health Services Jammu, along with its partners, remains committed to strengthening integrated public health efforts and building a more resilient health system in the region.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇