GANDERBAL: In connection with the ongoing weeklong World Tourism Day-2026 celebrations, under the theme "Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism" Department of Tourism Studies (DTS), Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) with the support of Design Innovation Centre (DIC), organized "Regional Cuisine and Handicraft display" at the varsity’s Green Campus here on Wednesday.

Prof. Davinder Kumar Madaan, Dean, School of Social Sciences, encouraged the students and appreciated the DTS in organizing this event. He said, Kashmir’s tourism is not only about its breathtaking landscapes, but also about its rich culture, warm hospitality, traditional cuisine, and vibrant handicrafts.

Dr. Mehraj-ud-Din Shah, Director Green Campus/HoD Commerce Department highlighted the role of regional cuisines and handicraft items in the  promotion of tourism industry of Jammu and Kashmir.

Chief Proctor/Associate Prof. Department of Management Studies, Dr. Zia-Ul-Haq said the stalls reflected creativity, teamwork, and understanding of our rich regional food and cultural heritage. The students should keep up the excellent efforts and continue exploring new ideas with confidence and enthusiasm, he said.

Earlier, in her welcome address, Coordinator, DTS, Dr. Shahnaz Akhter, emphasized upon how regional cuisine and handicrafts are important expressions of a destination’s culture, identity, and traditions. ā€œThey enrich the tourist experience by offering visitors an opportunity to taste, see, and experience the unique heritage of a region. Promoting local food and handicrafts also supports local artisans, communities, and livelihoods, making tourism more inclusive and sustainable. Therefore, preserving and promoting our regional cuisine and handicrafts is essential for strengthening cultural tourism and creating a distinctive identity for the destination.ā€ she said.

In his, Sr. Asst Prof. Dr. Ashaq Hussain Najar, highlighted the employment opportunities and career possibilities in the gastronomy and culinary field, by giving visitors an authentic taste of the destination’s culture and traditions. ā€œPromoting local cuisine also supports local communities and strengthens the cultural identity and attractiveness of the destination.ā€

During the event, the students of MBA-TTM, B.Voc-THM and employees of DIC actively participated in showcasing different food items of the region and handicraft items of different trades. Dr. Abid Suhail Nika, Asst. Prof moderated the session and proposed the vote of thanks.

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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