• Calls for generating mass awareness to encourage adoption of renewable energy initiatives

KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma today reviewed the progress achieved under the Prime Minister Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and the Smart Metering Programme at a meeting attended by concerned officers and representatives of the implementing agencies.

The meeting was informed that so far a total of 3228 applications seeking solar installation under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana have been received in the district, of which 2993 applicants have selected vendors for installation of rooftop solar panels. It was further given out that rooftop solar panels have been installed in 1915 cases in addition to  1828 already commissioned installation. 

The meeting was further apprised that subsidy has been redeemed in 1792 cases and reimbursement has been completed in 1714 cases, reflecting steady progress in implementation of the flagship scheme aimed at promoting clean and affordable energy solutions among households.

The Deputy Commissioner stressed the need for intensifying awareness and public outreach activities to encourage the maximum number of households to avail the benefits of the scheme. He directed the concerned departments and field functionaries to organise awareness camps at Panchayat, ward and village levels to educate the masses about the benefits, application procedure and subsidy provisions under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.

While reviewing the pace of Smart Meters, the meeting was informed that Kathua district has shown better performance in Jammu Division in implementation of the programme in the last fiscal.

The Deputy Commissioner impressed upon concerned officers to further accelerate the coverage of households under smart metering, stating that the scope for expansion remains immense. He emphasised that smart metering would help improve transparency, energy efficiency and consumer convenience while ensuring better management of electricity consumption and distribution. SE Ashok Kumar Chhiber, CPO Kathua Ranjeet Thakur, XEN JPDCL Mohammed Shafi, AEEs and representatives of concerned agencies were also present.

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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