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UDHAMPUR: The Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj organized a one-day District Level Consultation Workshop here today in the Conference Hall, DC Office Complex Udhampur. The Workshop engaged with the stakeholders associated with the formulation of Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDP). Another focus of the workshop was on devising effective strategies for MGNREGA convergence.

ā€œThe event aimed to enhance the effectiveness of rural development through the strategic integration of Panchayat Development Plans with the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)ā€ said the RD department.

Additional District Development Commissioner Rajinder Singh chaired the workshop and delivered the keynote address. He underscored the importance of convergence in rural development schemes and prioritizing the participation of women and marginalized sections of the community in the Gram Sabhas.

Assistant Commissioner Development Ranjit Singh Kotwal highlighted the critical need for convergence between Panchayat Development Plans and MGNREGA to foster holistic development and achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in rural areas. He emphasized that such integration would lead to more efficient resource utilization and the creation of tangible assets for the welfare of the people.

Nida Rafiq, Thematic Expert, Department of Panchayati Raj, J&K, provided an overview of the process for preparing thematic area-wise GPDPs. She elaborated on the issues, challenges, and strategies in preparing convergent GPDPs in the Union Territory (UT), along with the expectations from the line departments to facilitate the formation of integrated GPDPs.

Disha Gupta, Block Development Officer  Kulwanta, delivered a presentation on the convergent plan under MGNREGA. Chief Planning Officer Udhampur Mohammad Iqbal gave a presentation on UT-funded schemes to be integrated with GPDP and the role of administrative departments.

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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