• Plan focuses on inclusive development, quality execution & grassroots participation

KATHUA: District Development Council Kathua in its meeting held today, approved Rs 7452.53 lakh District Capital Expenditure Budget for the financial year 2025-26. The approved budget includes Rs 913.62 lakh for ongoing works and Rs 6538.91 lakh for new development proposals. The Capex plan aims to strengthen infrastructure, improve service delivery and push forward district-wide growth through focused investments across key sectors.

Deputy Commissioner Dr Rakesh Minhas, while addressing the Council meeting, emphasized the need to complete all development works in a time-bound manner with strict adherence to quality standards. He informed that the Capex Plan has been formulated after duly incorporating the works proposed at Gram Sabhas, thus ensuring grassroots inclusion. He appreciated the active role played by the members of the Council and officers of various departments in advancing the development agenda over the last four years.

Chairman District Development Council Col (Retd.) Mahan Singh also appreciated the sustained efforts of the members and departmental teams in implementing projects across the district. He stressed that DDC members must be consulted at the DPR preparation stage to ensure that the plans reflect the actual local needs. He further urged the members to monitor the execution of works and ensure their timely and quality completion.

Vice Chairman DDC Raghunandan Singh commended the cooperation and dedication shown by both elected members and officials in delivering visible development outcomes.

The meeting also witnessed several suggestions and demands from Council members reflecting local aspirations. DDC Marheen demanded the construction of washrooms at the community hall, while DDC Bani called for immediate replacement of damaged transformers in his area. DDC Keerian Gandyal appreciated the progress made by PMGSY in road connectivity. DDC Nagri sought recruitment of labourers for ECH facility. DDC Lohai Malhar sought augmentation of Power infrastructure, road connectivity and redressal of public grievances.

The Council resolved to utilize the allocated funds for capital projects in key sectors such as education, groundwater, health, ICDS, PDD, RDD and other departments. It was further resolved that priority shall be given to projects aligned with the district’s strategic development goals. The District Administration will be submitting quarterly progress reports to the Council for review and the District Treasurer has been authorized to disburse funds in accordance with the approved budget and applicable financial rules.

Earlier, Chief Planning Officer Ranjit Thakur gave a detailed PowerPoint presentation outlining the current development scenario of the district. ADDC Surinder Mohan, other District and Sectoral Officers were also present.

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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