AWANTIPORA: The Department of Environment, Sustainability & Climate Change, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), in collaboration with the Centre of Excellence for Glacial Studies (University of Kashmir), Indian Society of Geomatics (ISG), and the Indian Meteorological Society (IMS), successfully organized a One-Day Seminar cum Panel Discussion on ā€œProtecting Frozen Water Resources for the Futureā€.

The seminar featured distinguished panellists, including Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, IUST, Mr. Naseer Ahmad Kakroo, Retired Chief Engineer, UEED, J&K; Prof. Humayun Rashid, Professor of Practice, IUST; Er. Ajaz Rasool, Member, Technical Committee, J&K Wetlands Authority; Prof. A.Q. Dar, Head, Water Resources Centre, NIT Srinagar; Dr. Majid Farooq, Scientist, Department of Ecology, Environment & Remote Sensing, J&K; Dr. Sumira Nazir Zaz, Coordinator, Department of Environment, Sustainability & Climate Change, IUST; Dr. Dharam Chand, Coordinator, Biodiversity and Aromatic Park, IUST; and Dr. Yasir Altaf, Assistant Professor, IUST.

In this address, Prof. Romshoo emphasized the need for strengthening early warning systems and advancing scientific research to mitigate the impacts of climate-related disasters. Shri Iftikhar A. Kakroo, in this keynote address underscored the urgent need for comprehensive policies to address water scarcity in the Himalayan region, stressing the importance of governance and community participation in ensuring water security. Prof. Shakeel Ahmed highlighted the critical role of groundwater as a vital resource and called for sustainable management strategies to combat the challenges posed by changing climatic conditions.

The seminar culminated in an engaging panel discussion on ā€œDepleting Water Resources in Kashmir Valley: Need for Action Plans,ā€ where expert panelists shared their perspectives on the current state of water resources in the Kashmir Valley, the alarming decline in glaciers, and the critical need for immediate interventions, policy implementation, and conservation efforts. The event concluded with a call for interdisciplinary collaboration, policy reforms, and increased community awareness to protect the region's fragile water resources. The organizers and attendees emphasized the importance of such discussions in shaping sustainable water management practices for future generations.

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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