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KISHTWAR: A meeting of the District Telecom Committee (DTC) was held today under the Chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner, Pankaj Kumar Sharma, (Chairman DTC) to review   the implementation of the District Action Plan.

 The DC expressed concern over the non-functioning of VSATs installed in Gram Panchayats. “Although VSATs were installed way back (some during 2019), several sites are presently non-functional, particularly due to issues related to vendor change, maintenance gaps and infrastructure deficiencies,” he noted.

He stressed ensuring proper functioning and optimal utilization of all VSATs, especially in remote and far-flung Panchayats. He asked the ACD, BSNL Authorities and other stakeholders to take immediate corrective measures.

The concerned departments were directed to ensure availability of power supply, physical security, space and effective network utilization in GP Bhawans and to extend full cooperation to PMA/PIAs for timely implementation of BharatNet works.

The meeting also reviewed the status of joint inspections under BharatNet. The DC directed concerned departments to take necessary action on inspection findings, including handover details, verification of missing assets and proper documentation of equipment handed over to the IT Department.

Emphasis was laid on regular monitoring, maintenance and upkeep of BharatNet infrastructure at the GP level and timely resolution of any infrastructural deficiencies to ensure uninterrupted services.

Regarding the security of IT and BharatNet infrastructure, directions were issued to submit updated security status reports of GP Bhawans, installed VSATs, functioning CSCs and overall IT infrastructure, keeping in view past incidents and vulnerabilities.

The Deputy Commissioner reiterated the importance of strict usage of the “Call Before You Dig (CBuD)” App to prevent damage to underground telecom infrastructure and directed SE PWD R&B Circle Doda Kishtwar and concerned Executive Engineers of the  PWD R&B and PMGSY Departments to ensure its mandatory and effective implementation during excavation and infrastructure works.

The promotion of the Sanchar Saathi Portal/App was reviewed and directions were issued to enhance public awareness regarding citizen-centric telecom services, security features and subscriber empowerment initiatives. The use of the Unified Sanchar Portal for telecom-related services and grievance redressal was also emphasized.

The status of applications on the Unified RoW Portal was also reviewed and it was noted that no Right of Way (RoW) application is pending as on date. Issues and grievances, if any, received from the general public, licensees, or infrastructure providers related to telecom infrastructure were also discussed and directions were issued for their prompt disposal through the DTC mechanism.

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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