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SRINAGAR: To empower women at the grassroots level in disaster preparedness and response, a week-long Aapda Sakhi Training programme commenced today at the Headquarters of State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) 1st Battalion, Srinagar. Aapda Sakhi Training program was attended by  Ramesh Kumar Angral, Director, Homeguards Kashmir; Imtiyaz Hussain Mir, Director Civil Defence & SDRF Kashmir; Masroor Ahmad Mir, Commandant, SDRF 1st Battalion and other senior civil and Police officers.

Aapda Sakhi Training program witnessed active participation of senior officers/officials and 78 women trainees drawn from various districts of Kashmir province viz. 20 Aapda Sakhi from Social Welfare, 20 Aapda Sakhi from Rural Development, and 20 from Health & Medical Education department, besides 18 from Civil Defense, wardens/volunteers are also taking part in the event.

Speaking on the occasion, Director Homeguards emphasized the importance of integrating women into the disaster management framework. He stated, “Women are the backbone of our community, and their involvement as Aapda Sakhis will significantly enhance grassroot preparedness and resilience during any emergency.”

Addressing the officers, officials and Aapda Sakhi trainees, Director Civil Defence & SDRF Kashmir highlighted the critical role of Aapda Sakhis as community first responders and advocates for resilience in disaster-prone regions. He reiterated SDRF's commitment to community outreach and capacity building.

Earlier during the inaugural session, dignitaries highlighted the critical role of Aapda Sakhis as community first responders and advocates for resilience in disaster-prone regions. They commended the enthusiasm of the trainees who had come from different corners of the Kashmir valley to participate in this specialized program. Aapda Sakhis, under the broader ambit of community-based disaster risk reduction, are to be trained and empowered to respond effectively to emergencies such as earthquakes, floods, fires, and other natural or human-induced disasters.

The week-long training program will cover essential modules including basics of disaster preparedness, first aid and emergency response, fire safety and rescue operations, Risk communication and community mobilization, and Mock drills and hands-on exercises.

The program is being conducted under the guidance of SDRF trainers and disaster management experts, ensuring a blend of theory and practical learning for the participants. This inaugural event marked a significant step forward in building a resilient community through women-led disaster preparedness efforts across Jammu & Kashmir.

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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