KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma today chaired a meeting to review implementation of the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules across urban and rural areas of the district.

The meeting discussed aspects of scientific waste management, including source segregation, collection, processing and disposal of solid waste. The Deputy Commissioner called for coordinated efforts among stakeholders to implement the SWM Rules and directed the departments concerned to intensify public awareness campaigns on responsible waste management.

The Deputy Commissioner directed the officers concerned to ensure strict enforcement against unauthorised disposal of waste and take action against defaulters violating the prescribed norms. He also directed timely submission of progress reports for monitoring implementation.

The status of Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) in the district was also reviewed. It was informed that there are three operational MRFs, in Kathua, Parole and Billawar. The Deputy Commissioner called for strengthening the facilities and ensuring their optimum utilisation.

The meeting also reviewed compliance by Bulk Waste Generators. Four industrial estates have been identified under this category. The Deputy Commissioner directed the agencies concerned to ensure strict adherence to waste management regulations by these establishments.

The Deputy Commissioner called for regular training and orientation programmes for field functionaries and stakeholders to strengthen implementation of the SWM Rules at the grassroots level.

District Panchayat Officer Kathua Ajeet Kumar informed the meeting that tendering for door-to-door waste collection services would commence shortly, to streamline collection and improve sanitation management across the district.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following šŸ‘‡