SRINAGAR: The Central Integrated Pest Management Centre (CIPMC), Srinagar, in collaboration with the State Agriculture Department, Block Harwan, organized a Farm School-cum-Awareness Campaign for farmers at Village Wanihama Payeen, Harwan, Srinagar, today.

On the occasion, the State Agriculture Department, Srinagar, also conducted a Farmers’ Field School in the village, during which several farmers were provided with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) kits to promote the adoption of safe, scientific, and eco-friendly pest management practices.

Dr. Haroon Rashid Hakla, APPO (PP), sensitized the farmers about various pest-management issues and the serious consequences of using spurious and counterfeit pesticides, which can adversely affect both crops and human health. He also briefed the farmers about the National Pest Surveillance System, emphasizing the importance of correctly identifying the specific pest or disease affecting their crops and using only those pesticides recommended under the CIB&RC-approved list.

Dr. Mehnaz Kaith, AEO Harwan, delivered an informative lecture highlighting the importance and relevance of such awareness campaigns for farmers in the present-day agricultural scenario. She elaborated on various methods, principles, and practical aspects of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and encouraged farmers to adopt sustainable pest-control measures.

 Abir Shankhari, APPO (WS), demonstrated the different toxicity levels of pesticides and sensitized farmers about their harmful effects on human health. He also emphasized the importance of following all necessary safety precautions before, during, and after pesticide application to ensure the safe and judicious use of pesticides.

 Bilal Ahmad Wani, AEA Harwan, advised farmers to remain vigilant while purchasing pesticides. He stressed the importance of verifying the QR code, batch number, manufacturer details, and poison/toxicity level on pesticide containers and urged farmers to purchase pesticides only from Government-authorized pesticide dealers.

The participating farmers appreciated the efforts of the Agriculture Department in organizing such informative and practical awareness programmes. They expressed their desire for more such initiatives in the future to enhance their knowledge and help them address the various challenges faced in crop production and pest management.

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

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