JAMMU: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar, today said that Himayat 2.0 aims to equip the youth of Jammu and Kashmir with market-relevant skills to enable gainful employment in high demand jobs. He was speaking while distributing sanction orders among the Project Implementation Agencies (PIAs) at Panchayat Bhawan, Railway Road, Jammu.

The Minister said the revamped programme focuses on outcome-oriented skill development, aligning training with current and emerging market demands. He emphasized that Himayat 2.0 gives special priority to rural youth and high-growth sectors to drive inclusive socio-economic development.

Stressing the need for a diversified skill base, he directed the PIAs to introduce new trades and strong soft-skill components aligned with industry requirements. He asked them to ensure implementation with commitment, transparency and accountability.

Secretary, Rural Development Department, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, described Himayat 2.0 as a shift from skill training to assured employability,  with a sharper focus on standards, accountability and long-term employment outcomes. He noted that skills remain the most sustainable form of empowerment and that the government has established a system that is clear in intent and supportive in execution.

The Chief Executive Officer, Himayat, briefed the gathering on the roles and responsibilities of PIAs, underlining the importance of quality training, placement performance and strict adherence to programme guidelines.

The event was attended by Heads of Departments of Panchayati Raj and IWMP, senior officers, representatives of PIAs and other stakeholders associated with the implementation of Himayat 2.0.

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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