JAMMU: Rural Development Department (RDD) and Panchayati Raj Department has sanctioned a total outlay of ₹195.96 crore under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) to support rural infrastructure development and ensure timely honorarium payments to programme staff across the Union Territory.

According to Order No. 79-JK (RD&PR) of 2026 issued by Secretary, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad , sanction has been accorded for the release of Rs 174 crore under the material component for the financial year 2025–26.

In a separate order, Government Order No. 76-JK (RD&PR) of 2026, the department has also sanctioned ₹21.58 crore as honorarium for staff engaged in the implementation of MGNREGA from November 2025 to March 2026, besides ₹38.57 lakh as honorarium for court case staff handling legal matters related to the scheme during the same period.

Secretary said that the timely release of funds will significantly strengthen the implementation of rural development programmes and accelerate the execution of key projects across the Union Territory.

Meanwhile, Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Javid Ahmad Dar, expressed gratitude to the MoRD for the timely release of a major chunk of funds under the MGNREGA for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

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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