UDHAMPUR: Minister for Jal Shakti and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Monday paid rich tributes to Bharat Ratna, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, on his 134th birth anniversary at Ambedkar Chowk, Jakhani Udhampur. Calling him the greatest Indian of 20th Century, Rana highlighted the pivotal role played by Dr. Ambedkar in framing Indian constitution that guarantees justice, liberty and equality for all citizens in political, economic and social spheres.

“Dr. Ambedkar’s efforts in drafting the Constitution laid the foundation for modern India and it is our collective responsibility not to forget his legacy,” he said. He was speaking at an event organised by Ambedkar Welfare Organization Trust in Udhampur to mark celebration of birthday anniversary of the legend. Describing Ambedkar as a champion of social justice, the Minister said that the great visionary dedicated his life towards fighting caste discrimination and untouchability, becoming a voice of the marginalised and oppressed.

“As a pioneer of Dalit liberation from the tentacles of caste system, he worked tirelessly to ensure equal rights, representation and opportunities for Scheduled Castes and other backward communities,” he remarked while urging everyone to dedicate themselves towards building a society that’s inclusive, equitable and just for all. Reflecting on Dr Ambedkar’s monumental contributions, the Minister stated that the values of liberty, equality and fraternity were paramount to him and those values continue to serve as guiding principles for the nation.

Rana said that Dr. Ambedkar’s life remains an enduring symbol of resilience, intellect and transformative leadership, inspiring generations to work for an inclusive and just society. “I urge all the citizens, especially the youth to draw inspiration from Baba Saheb’s life and dedicate themselves to the service of humanity,” he said. The Minister expressed gratitude to all the participants, the organizing committee and the district officers for successfully organizing the event.

Deputy Commissioner Udhampur, Saloni Rai, also addressed the gathering and highlighted the life and contributions of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar in shaping the Indian Constitution. Chief Engineer Jal Shakti, Vikas Sharma, Chief Engineer Irrigation and Flood Control, Manoj Gupta, DFO, Navneet Singh and other senior officers of various departments; representatives of social and political organizations and a large number of local residents attended the programme. The programme featured a series of theme based cultural performances and a Nukkad Natak presented by the local artists and students.

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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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