SAMBA: In a groundbreaking development for women’s economic empowerment in the region, Deputy Commissioner Samba, Rajesh Sharma officially inaugurated a handicrafts training centre in Sangwali Mandi today, first ever in the area. The ceremony held at Panchayat Ghar Sangwali Mandi, marks a significant step forwards preserving traditional crafts while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local women.

The newly opened centre will focus on training women in the art of calico printing, a heritage craft that holds immense cultural significance and market potential. This initiative represents the administration’s commitment to bridging traditional craftsmanship with modern economic opportunities, ensuring that age-old skills contribute to contemporary livelihoods.

Assistant Director Handicrafts Ekshu Sharma emphasized the centre’s role in skill development and women’s empowerment. The facility is expected to serve as a catalyst for economic transformation in the region.

The Sangwali Mandi centre adds to the robust infrastructure already established by the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom across Samba district. The department currently operates an impressive network of 8 handicrafts centres and 2 handloom centres, demonstrating the administration’s sustained commitment to artisan development and craft preservation.

The inauguration witnessed overwhelming enthusiasm from local women, who expressed both gratitude for the initiative and keen interest in participating in the training programs. Their positive response underscores the community’s readiness to embrace skill development opportunities that honor traditional craftsmanship while addressing modern economic needs.

The Deputy Commissioner encouraged the women to maximize the centre’s potential, stating that such initiatives are crucial for creating self-reliant communities and preserving cultural heritage. His vision emphasizes the dual benefit of economic empowerment and cultural preservation.

The inaugural ceremony was attended by several key officials, including the CEO of Municipality and Tehsildar Samba, highlighting the collaborative approach of various departments in supporting this initiative. Their presence underscores the administrative commitment to ensuring the centre’s success and sustainability.

This milestone inauguration in Sangwali Mandi sets a precedent for similar initiatives across the region. The centre is expected to become a model for other mandis, demonstrating how traditional crafts can be leveraged for contemporary economic development while preserving cultural heritage.

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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