KATHUA: As part of Vigilance Awareness Week 2024, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and District Administration Kathua on Wednesday organised an awareness program themed "Illegal Mining," to highlight ethical practices in the mining sector. The day-long event attracted numerous stakeholders, including mining lessees, crusher owners, complainants and officials from across different government departments, underscoring a unified commitment to transparency and integrity in mining operations.

Deputy Commissioner Dr. Rakesh Minhas, who was the chief guest, emphasized the importance of ethical practices in the mining industry. Dr. Minhas called upon mining stakeholders and government officials to uphold integrity in every stage of mining—from ethical excavation methods to transparent transportation and the responsible sale of minerals. He advocated for advanced measures such as geo-fencing of mining blocks and GPS tracking of transport vehicles to ensure accountability and traceability throughout the mining process.

“Ensuring transparency in mining operations is not only a regulatory requirement but a moral imperative,” said Dr. Minhas. “By adopting technologies like geo-fencing and GPS tracking, we can curb illegal mining practices, safeguard our resources, and contribute to a sustainable environment.”

A team from the Anti-Corruption Bureau J&K led the program’s educational segment. Headed by Dy. SP Sunny Gupta, the team included Prosecution Officer Irshad Ahmed Sheikh, Inspector Sudhir Sadotra and Inspector Bindeshwar Manhas. The ACB team provided attendees with crucial insights into the legal aspects of mining and outlined the vital role both stakeholders and the general public play in identifying and addressing corruption within mining activities.

The ACB team discussed specific red flags and actionable measures to combat illegal mining practices. They also urged community members to report suspicious activities, thereby fostering a collective vigilance that is essential in curtailing unethical practices.

The programme ended with the resolve that all stakeholders shall work to evolve an informed community that actively supports vigilance against corruption, particularly in sectors critical to environmental and economic well-being. Among others, ADC Kathua, ASP Kathua were also present on the occasion.

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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