KATHUA: As part of the ongoing Van Mahotsav 2026 celebrations, the Social Forestry Department Kathua today organised a mega plantation drive under the nationwide 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign from Kathua Waterfront to Kalibari to enhance the district's green cover.

Member of Legislative Assembly Kathua Dr Bharat Bhushan led the drive, in the presence of Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma, ADDC Surinder Mohan Sharma, ADC Mahima Madan, DFO Social Forestry Hitakshi Sharma, senior Social Forestry officers, district officers, representatives of various government departments, volunteers and members of civil society.

Dr Bharat Bhushan said the campaign encourages every citizen to plant a tree in honour of their mother while contributing to a sustainable future. He urged the public, particularly the youth, to participate actively in afforestation drives and ensure the survival and proper care of the saplings.

The Deputy Commissioner appreciated the department's efforts and stressed that increasing green cover through community participation is essential for maintaining ecological balance, mitigating climate change and preserving biodiversity. He called upon all stakeholders to make tree plantation a people's movement.

Officers of the district administration, prominent citizens, civil society representatives and media persons planted indigenous and ornamental saplings along the Waterfront–Kalibari stretch and pledged to protect and nurture them.

Earlier, DFO Social Forestry Hitakshi Sharma welcomed the dignitaries, outlined the objectives of Van Mahotsav 2026 and the campaign and sensitised participants on nurturing the saplings for their healthy growth and long-term sustainability.

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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