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KISHTWAR: In a significant move to enhance the functioning and progress of School Management Committees (SMCs) in District Kishtwar, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav today chaired a comprehensive meeting at the VC room of the New DC Office Complex in Kishtwar. The meeting witnessed the participation of key educational stakeholders, including CEO Kishtwar R.K. Vesheshta, Principal DIET Kishtwar Prahlad Bhagat, Dy CEO Masood Qazi, DNO SMCs Kishtwar, all Zonal Education Officers (ZEOs), Zonal Nodal Officers (ZNOs), and executives from the India Education Collective.

The primary agenda of the meeting was to discuss and review the status of various initiatives aimed at strengthening SMCs.  Key points of discussion included An in-depth review of the current status and ongoing efforts to fortify the SMCs in the district, Baseline Survey Status-Evaluation of the baseline survey conducted for the SMCs to understand their current functioning and identify areas for improvement, Orientation Schedule-Planning for the completion of orientation sessions for the remaining SMCs to ensure they are well-prepared to fulfill their roles, Monitoring and Outcomes- Assessment of the monthly SMC meetings, focusing on monitoring mechanisms and the outcomes achieved, Verification by Village Level Workers (VLWs)-Ensuring the verification of SMC formation and functioning by VLWs to maintain accountability and transparency, Steering Committee Meetings- Scheduling and planning of upcoming Steering Committee meetings to oversee the progress of SMC initiatives.

During the meeting, all concerned participants provided updated figures and information related to their respective roles and responsibilities. This collective sharing of data and insights was instrumental in painting a comprehensive picture of the current state of SMCs in the district. Deputy Commissioner emphasized the importance of collective and collaborative efforts from all stakeholders to strengthen the role of SMCs in Kishtwar. He highlighted the need for a unified approach to address the challenges faced by these committees and to enhance their effectiveness.

DC Kishtwar particularly urged the executives from the India Education Collective to develop a comprehensive plan for conducting orientation programs for ZNOs and VLWs. CEO Kishtwar was asked to frame format for VLWs who can issue Zero Drop out Certificate for each panchayats. These sessions aim to clearly define their roles and responsibilities and provide essential training to the implementing officers and officials. Such training is crucial for effective monitoring and achieving tangible results in infrastructure development and educational outcomes through SMCs, leveraging community participation.

In addition, he stressed the importance of bridging communication gaps within the functional System and improving their overall functioning. He called for better communication systems to ensure that all SMCs in the district are well-coordinated and aligned with the district's educational goals.

The Deputy Commissioner concluded the meeting by reiterating the administration's commitment to enhancing the educational landscape of Kishtwar through empowered and effective School Management Committees. He assured all participants that their collective efforts would significantly contribute to the holistic development of the district's educational infrastructure and outcomes.

The meeting marked a pivotal step in ensuring that SMCs in Kishtwar are well-equipped to drive positive changes in the educational sector, fostering a collaborative environment that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of the community.

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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