Dear Readers, JK Monitor has always been committed to keeping you informed with news and updates that matter. Today, we invite you to become a part of our journey and help us continue serving you. We appeal to our readers, well-wishers, and supporters of independent journalism to come forward and contribute towards the continued growth and sustainability of JK Monitor. Every contribution, big or small, is a valuable gesture of support. JK Monitor is more than a news platform; it is a voice we build together. Your support can help keep that voice strong. To contribute or know more, please contact us at 9906103001. Stand with JK Monitor. Support independent journalism.

JAMMU: In a significant move to advance inclusive growth and strengthen decentralized governance, the District Development Council (DDC), Jammu, convened a high-level meeting the other day at the Meeting Hall, Panchayat Bhawan, Rail Head Complex, to deliberate upon and approve the District Capex Budget for the financial year 2025–26.

The meeting was presided over by the Chairman DDC Jammu Bharat Bhushan and witnessed the presence of the Vice-Chairman Suraj Singh, Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from various constituencies of Jammu district and elected DDC members.

Also in attendance were key administrative officials, including the Chief Planning Officer, Ajaypal Singh, senior sectoral officers associated with Capex Budget planning and implementation, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Khour (Nodal Officer – ABDP) and Block Development Officers (BDOs) from all blocks of the district. The proceedings were conducted in a very cordial and collaborative atmosphere, reflecting the collective commitment of all stakeholders to foster development through constructive dialogue and mutual respect.

The session commenced with a detailed presentation by Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Jammu, Sher Singh, who also serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the District Development Council. In his address, the ADDC provided a comprehensive overview of the proposed Capex Budget for 2025–26, which focuses on holistic, participatory, and need-driven development.

The proposed budget incorporates a wide spectrum of initiatives targeting the upliftment of rural and urban areas alike, with emphasis on Area Development Grants allocated to DDCs, BDCs and Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) to support local governance and grassroots development; Aspirational Block Development Programme (ABDP) and Aspirational Panchayat Development Programme (APDP) aimed at transforming underdeveloped blocks and panchayats through targeted interventions; Infrastructure and service delivery enhancements across critical sectors, including Public Works Department (PWD), Education (Elementary and Secondary), Health, Youth Services & Sports, Samridh Seema Yojana (SSY) and Public Health Engineering (PHE).

Following the presentation, a robust and constructive discussion took place. The DDC members shared insightful feedback and highlighted specific local needs. Several members submitted requests for the inclusion of additional works and projects to better reflect the developmental aspirations of their respective constituencies.

Acknowledging the importance of timely planning, the Chair directed that all supplementary proposals must be formally submitted by 12:00 noon on July 31, 2025, for consideration in the revised Capex Budget. In the absence of new submissions by the deadline, the initially proposed budget will be deemed final and approved.

At the conclusion of the session, the Council unanimously passed a resolution authorizing the Chairman and Vice-Chairman to officially sign and endorse the District CAPEX Budget 2025–26 on behalf of the entire House. Subsequently, on 31st July, 2025, the final CAPEX Budget was formally approved by the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, in accordance with the resolution passed during the meeting.

The approved Capex Budget represents a strategic roadmap to accelerate socio-economic progress across Jammu district. It aims to foster inclusive development, improve core infrastructure, and enhance public service delivery through transparent, accountable, and community-centric planning. The District Development Council reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the developmental needs of every block, panchayat, and citizen are addressed with urgency, equity, and diligence.

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

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