KATRA: The Board of Cultural Activities (BCA), in collaboration with the Board of Professional Activities (BPA), SMVDU recently organised an enriching two-day trek to Pancheri. A total of 70 students participated enthusiastically under the supervision of Dr. Pankaj Biswas, Faculty Advisor, SciTech Club; Dr. Kirti Sindhu, Assistant Professor SoE; Dr. Varun Pandey, Assistant Professor SoP; and Mr. Tarun Gupta, Lab Assistant, SoEE. The journey began with vibrant excitement as students departed from the university.

The bus ride provided a refreshing start to the trip, with narrow winding roads surrounded by lush greenery setting a perfect tone for the two-day excursion. Their first stop was the Baba Sankri Devta Temple—a serene spiritual landmark that not only offered peaceful surroundings but also introduced the group to the region’s cultural and historical significance.

After spending quality time at the temple, students enjoyed lunch and even played a friendly game of cricket with local residents, adding a heartwarming and memorable dimension to the day. From there, the group continued to their forest-side campsite, located deep inside a dense patch of woods. The atmosphere was calm, quiet, and deeply connected to nature. In the evening, the joining faculty member from IAPT, Mr. Ranjeet Kumar, conducted an enlightening constellation-viewing session.

Students learned to identify prominent stars and constellations, transforming the night sky into an open-air classroom filled with wonder. As night fell, the campsite grew even livelier with a bonfire, DJ session, and musical jamming. Some students spent the night in tents under the starlit sky, while others stayed in mud rooms. Conversations, music, laughter, and the peaceful forest environment kept the group engaged late into the night.

The following morning, the trek commenced through scenic viewpoints, forested trails, and calm natural stretches of the Pancheri region. The route offered an ideal balance of thrill and comfort, allowing students to enjoy the ascent while maintaining steady coordination as a team. Faculty supervisors guided them throughout, ensuring safety and encouraging teamwork and discipline. The breathtaking Deari jungle and surrounding landscapes provided a memorable trekking experience.

After completing the trek, the group returned to the campsite for lunch before preparing for their journey back. On the return trip, the group stopped at Kainthgali to relish the famous Kalari Kulcha—a perfect concluding treat before reaching the university. Students returned with renewed enthusiasm, unforgettable memories, and deeper appreciation for nature, culture, and community bonding. The two-day Pancheri trek proved to be a meaningful blend of outdoor learning, cultural exposure, adventure, and team spirit. The experience will remain a cherished highlight for all participants.

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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