BARAMULLA: Commissioner Secretary Education Department, Ram Niwas Sharma, who is also Nodal Officer for Vibrant Villages Maidanan and Salasan, today visited the two border villages in Uri Sub-Division and reviewed the progress of developmental activities being undertaken under the Vibrant Village Programme (VVP) –Phase II.

He was accompanied by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate Uri, Joint Director School Education North Kashmir, Deputy Chief Education Officer Baramulla and other concerned officers of line departments.

During the visit, the Commissioner Secretary held extensive interaction with the residents, community representatives and local stakeholders at both Maidanan and Salasan villages. He listened to their concerns, developmental aspirations and suggestions regarding improvement in basic amenities and public services.

The residents highlighted various issues and demands related to infrastructure, connectivity, education, healthcare, drinking water supply and livelihood generation.

Assuring the people of the government's commitment towards the welfare and development of border communities, Ram Niwas Sharma stated that the Vibrant Village Programme aims to transform remote villages into self-reliant and vibrant settlements through focused developmental interventions and improved public service delivery. He emphasized that sustained efforts are being made to strengthen the infrastructure and create better socio-economic opportunities for the residents living in border areas.

The Commissioner Secretary also conducted a comprehensive review of the developmental works and government schemes being implemented in the two villages. He was briefed about the status of ongoing projects, achievements made so far, challenges being faced and the future plans envisaged under the programme.

He stressed the need for timely completion of projects, effective coordination among the departments and regular monitoring to ensure that developmental benefits reach the people in a tangible manner.

Ram Niwas Sharma directed the concerned officers to maintain close engagement with the local communities and adopt a proactive approach in addressing the public grievances and developmental needs. He further underscored the importance of ensuring transparency, accountability and quality in execution of works being carried out under the programme.

The visit provided an opportunity for on-the-ground assessment of developmental requirements and helped reinforce the administration's commitment towards accelerating the pace of development in border villages.

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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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