In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

SRINAGAR: Secretary, Rural Development Department (RDD)and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, today chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the implementation of flagship initiatives under the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA).

The review covered progress under the Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) 2.0, construction of Panchayat Ghars (PGs), co-location of Common Service Centres (CSCs), functioning of Panchayat Learning Centres (PLCs), Model Women-Friendly Panchayats, geo-tagging of Panchayat Ghars through the Meri Panchayat App, and audit compliance for 2021–22.

The Secretary was informed that 90 percent of data entry under PAI 2.0 has been completed, with 3,868 Gram Panchayats (GPs) having started the process out of a total of 4,291 GPs. He directed Assistant Commissioners Panchayat (ACPs) to ensure 100 percent completion within two to three days and emphasized validation through Gram Sabhas and block-level committees by September 5, so that the state can share verified data with the Ministry of Panchayati Raj by September 10.

On the status of Panchayat Ghars, the Secretary expressed concern over delays in land identification in certain districts and asked ACPs to coordinate with Deputy Commissioners to resolve land availability issues at the earliest, underscoring that no Panchayat should remain excluded due to lack of land.

With regard to co-location of CSCs, it was noted that 93 percent completion has been achieved. The Secretary directed field officers to bridge the remaining gap to ensure universal coverage. He also reviewed the status of Panchayat Learning Centres (PLCs), instructing Kupwara district to immediately operationalize its pending centre.

Taking stock of the Model Women-Friendly Panchayats initiative, the Secretary directed that quarterly data be carefully scrutinized and validated at the state level for timely submission. He informed that 20 such Panchayats have already been established and further work is in progress. On the issue of audit compliance, the Secretary urged ACPs to download Audit Online reports for 2021–22 from the designated portal and respond promptly in a time-bound manner.

The meeting was attended by Directors of RDD Kashmir and Jammu, Shabir Hussain Bhat and Shehnaz Akhtar; Director Panchayati Raj, Sham Lal; Director Finance, Umar Khan; Superintending Engineers REW Kashmir and Jammu; Deputy Secretary, Tahir Ahmad Magray; ACPs, BDOs, Executive Engineers.

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
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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