SRINAGAR: In a major stride towards youth led national development, the YUVA CONNECT initiative under the Viksit Bharat@2047 mission has been launched to ignite civic awareness, leadership and active participation among India’s young population.

Spearheaded by the Union Ministry for Youth Affairs and Sports, the initiative is being implemented across premier higher education institutions in Jammu and Kashmir. These included IIT Jammu, IIM Jammu, NIT Srinagar, Jammu University, SMVDU, AIIMS Vijaypur and various degree colleges.

The initiative was formally introduced during an informative session that outlined the implementation framework, with activities and timelines as per the Concept Note circulated by the Ministry. The interactive virtual session was chaired by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya and was attended by Sports Ministers for different States/UTs of the country.

Speaking during the interaction session, Minister for Youth Services and Sports, J&K, Satish Sharma, emphasized the pivotal role of youth in shaping a progressive nation. He said, “YUVA CONNECT is not just a program, it’s a movement to empower our students with the tools of leadership, civic responsibility and innovation. As we march towards a developed India by 2047, our youth must be at the forefront, acting as torchbearers of social transformation and inclusive development.”

The Minister highlighted the need for developing border sports and allied infrastructure in J&K, promoting economic upliftment and provide psychological relief to the residents living in tense border environments. He urged the Union Sports Ministry for prioritising the border areas by providing special financial assistance/package in order to built a better Sports infrastructure and to create a conducive sports environment in these vulnerable areas.

“Our border areas are filled with untapped potential for tourism. Developing this sector, along with robust infrastructure, will not only generate local employment but also provide a sense of normalcy and dignity to families living under constant stress near the borders,” the Minister asserted and requested the Union Ministry for its support in this connection.

During further interaction, Satish Sharma put forth suggestions for a mega plantation drive across the country during inauguration of the Yuva Connect programme, as an initiative for more greener India.

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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