SRINAGAR: The Committee on Public Accounts (PAC) of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly today convened a meeting at the Legislative Assembly here, under the Chairmanship of Surjeet Singh Slathia, to examine the CAG Audit Paras pertaining to the Housing and Urban Development Department. The meeting was attended by Legislators Mubarik Gul, Shamim Firdous, Qaysar Jamshaid Lone, Ranbir Singh Pathania, Ch. Mohammad Akram, Vikram Randhawa and Tanvir Sadiq

The Chairman observed that deficiencies flagged by the CAG including gaps in planning for ULBs, lack of stakeholder consultation in preparation of SWM Action Plans, non-assessment of quantity and composition of waste and inadequate segregation at source need to be addressed on priority. He further noted that issues related to collection, transportation, processing, scientific disposal, adherence to SWM Rules 2016 and deficient manpower and capacity building of sanitation staff require concerted efforts at the ULB level.

 The Committee held detailed deliberations on Audit Paras concerning the Solid Waste Management in Urban Local Bodies, including collection, segregation at source, transportation, processing and scientific disposal of waste. The Committee also reviewed issues relating the financial management, capacity building and implementation of waste management rules.

During the meeting, Surjeet Singh Slathia, emphasized that proper utilization of public funds is essential for strengthening the democratic institutions and ensuring clean environment for citizens. He underlined the need for strict adherence to the prescribed guidelines and for time-bound implementation of Solid Waste Management projects.

The Chairman stressed on achieving 100 percent door-to-door collection and segregation of waste at source, improvement of approach roads to dumping sites and scientific management of legacy waste, particularly along highway corridors. He emphasized on conducting Compliance Audit and Performance Audit to ensure transparency, accountability and effective outcome of urban development schemes.

Among others, the meeting was attended by Mandeep Kaur, Commissioner Secretary, H&UDD; Dr. Basharat Qayoom, Commissioner, SMC; Ayushi Sudan, Commissioner, JMC, Chief Engineer, UEED Director, ULB Jammu Deputy Accountant General, besides other senior officers of the Department and officers of the Assembly Secretariat.

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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