SRINAGAR: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today chaired a review meeting to assess the physical and financial progress of various schemes and developmental works being executed by the Jal Shakti Department and Irrigation & Flood Control (I&FC) Departments in Kashmir Division.

The meeting was attended by Chief Engineers of the Jal Shakti and Irrigation & Flood Control Departments, besides all Superintending Engineers of the Hydraulic Circles of Kashmir Division.

During the meeting, the concerned officers briefed the Minister on the progress of ongoing schemes, achievements recorded so far, bottlenecks and the status of expenditure against funds sanctioned and earmarked for different works.

While reviewing the progress, the Minister directed the officers to accelerate execution of works on the ground and ensure that all projects nearing completion are completed within the prescribed timelines, particularly before the onset of winter.

Reviewing the functioning and progress of the Jal Shakti Department, Rana directed the officers to accord top priority to all incomplete drinking water supply schemes and make every effort to commission them before the winter season sets in.

He stressed the need for advance functional testing of pipelines, pumping arrangements, storage tanks and other associated infrastructure so that any technical deficiencies are identified and rectified well in time.

The Minister also called for close field-level monitoring of schemes and directed the concerned officers to undertake regular inspections of works, particularly those at advanced stages of completion, to ensure adherence to quality standards and approved timelines.

Reviewing the progress of works under the Irrigation & Flood Control Department, the Minister directed that de-silting of water channels and strengthening of flood-protection infrastructure and embankments along vulnerable stretches be undertaken and completed on priority.

Rana asked the Chief Engineer, I&FC, to furnish a river-wise status report detailing the progress of flood-protection works and the preparedness of vulnerable areas ahead of the winter season.

He stressed that physical progress and financial expenditure must move in tandem and that funds allocated for developmental works should be utilised judiciously, transparently and within the prescribed timelines.

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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