KATRA: Continuing its initiatives aimed at promoting environmental conservation and enhancing green cover, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) today organized a plantation drive along an extensive stretch of the periphery of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, Kakryal.

During the drive, over 100 fruit-bearing saplings, including Lemon, Mango, Mosambi, Kinnow, Apple, Guava, Jackfruit, Litchi, Chikoo and Amla, were planted at identified locations. The initiative also involved extensive de-weeding and cleaning of the surrounding premises to improve the overall cleanliness, upkeep and aesthetic appeal of the area.

The plantation drive was formally launched by Shri Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB in the presence of Shri Alok Kumar Maurya, Addl. Chief Executive Officer; Shri Pawan Kumar Goswami, Dy. Chief Executive Officer; Dr. Yashpal Sharma, Facility Director, Narayana Hospital; Shri Vinay Khajuria, ACF; besides other senior officers of the Shrine Board, officials and staff of Narayana Hospital and the College of Nursing.

The Annual Green Plan 2026–27, approved by the Board under the chairmanship of Shri Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Lt. Governor, JK-UT, the Shrine Board has envisaged the plantation of 1,87,000 quality forestry seedlings in the Shrine area. Of these, 1,25,000 seedlings have already been planted, while the remaining 62,000 are scheduled to be planted during the forthcoming winter season.

Further, reaffirming its commitment to environmental sustainability, the Shrine Board has undertaken several eco-friendly initiatives encompassing waste and water management, solar power generation and the use of drone technology for seed dispersal to preserve the natural grandeur of the Shrine area. To promote environmental awareness and encourage greater public participation in enhancing green cover, the Board has also raised quality saplings at its hi-tech nursery located at Village Kunia for distribution among the general public. The plantation drive is expected to further enrich the green cover along the periphery of Narayana Hospital while enhancing the overall greenery and aesthetic appeal of the area.

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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