• Lays foundation stone for development projects

KULGAM: Minister for Education, Health & Medical Education and Social Welfare, Sakeena Itoo, today presided over a district level farmers' awareness programme organised by the Department of Horticulture, Kulgam, under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture” (CSS-MIDH) at DK Marg in D.H. Pora.

The programme was organised to create awareness among the orchardists and farmers about modern horticultural practices, scientific interventions and various government schemes aimed at enhancing the farmers’ productivity and income. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister stressed the need to provide farmers with proper technical guidance and continued institutional support to enhance productivity and improve livelihoods.

The Minister also inspected an exhibition comprising stalls established by the Department of Horticulture and various allied departments. The stalls showcased departmental schemes, technological interventions and services available to the farmers while technical experts provided on-the-spot guidance and addressed field-level queries. The participants were also briefed about the flagship schemes being implemented by the Department of Horticulture for the benefit of orchardists.

During the technical session, the experts from SKUAST-Kashmir apprised the participants of the University's research and extension initiatives for the farming community. They delivered an informative lecture on integrated insect pest management, emphasising scientific, eco-friendly and sustainable approaches for effective pest control in fruit crops.

The Department of Horticulture displayed a wide range of locally grown and exotic fruits, quality planting material and different fruit varieties, highlighting Kulgam's rich horticultural potential. An innovative Horticulture Help Desk was also established to provide technical guidance, grievance redressal and information on departmental schemes.

On the occasion, publication, "Building a Greener, Prosperous Kulgam," documenting the achievements made under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) during the last three years was released. The Minister also listened to various public issues and demands raised by the people and assured them of appropriate redress.

Later, the Minister laid foundation stone for the Horticulture Development Office Complex and an additional classroom at Government Middle School Kounsarbal and Babapora. During her visit, Sakeena Itoo also inaugurated  Rapid Sand Filtration (RSF) Plant at Ahmadabad Trangzadoo.

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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