JAMMU: Gandhi Jayanti was celebrated with devotion and social commitment at the Jigar Institute of Education, Training and Rehabilitation, Gangyal, Jammu, where a special programme was organised by the Institute’s Founder, Sandhya Dhar, to commemorate the birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi Ji.
J&K BJP General Secretary and former Deputy Mayor Jammu, Baldev Singh Billawaria, attended the programme and paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi Ji. Remembering his timeless ideals of truth, non-violence, cleanliness, service and humanity, Billawaria said that Gandhi Ji’s thoughts continue to inspire generations and remain deeply relevant in building a compassionate, responsible and inclusive society.
Addressing the gathering, Billawaria said that Mahatma Gandhi Ji regarded cleanliness and service as more than individual responsibilities—they were, in his vision, essential components of social transformation. He said that under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the spirit of cleanliness, public participation and service has been strengthened across the country, further advancing the vision of a clean, healthy and empowered India.
Billawaria particularly appreciated the dedicated efforts of Sandhya Dhar and the Jigar Institute for their continued service towards children with special needs and persons with disabilities. He said that providing education, specialized training, rehabilitation and opportunities for self-reliance is not only a meaningful social service but also an important step towards creating an inclusive society where every child gets an opportunity to learn, grow and realize their potential.
Appreciating the Institute’s work, Billawaria said that its efforts are bringing hope, confidence and dignity into the lives of children with special needs and their families. He emphasized that supporting and empowering specially-abled and vulnerable sections of society is a collective responsibility, requiring compassion, sensitivity and active participation from all sections of society.
He also lauded the staff and volunteers of the Institute for their dedication and commitment, and expressed his best wishes for the continued growth and success of the organization.
Speaking on the occasion, Sandhya Dhar, Founder of Jigar Institute, said that the Institute is committed to providing children with special needs with quality education, training and rehabilitation facilities so that they can become more confident, self-reliant and active participants in mainstream society.
She reaffirmed that the Institute would continue its efforts with the same spirit of service, compassion and dedication, working towards creating better opportunities and a brighter future for children with special needs and their families.
The programme witnessed the participation of the Institute’s staff members, children, parents and other prominent members of society, who joined together in paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi Ji and reaffirming the importance of service, cleanliness, compassion and social responsibility.
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

I will always remember Dr. Priya Ranjan not only as the Chairman of JK Monitor, but as a mentor, guide and elder brother whose kindness profoundly shaped my life and work. Write a tribute at In Loving Memory · Dr. Priya Ranjan
When he appointed me Editor-in-Chief of JK Monitor, he never treated me as an employee, but as a younger brother, offering warmth, trust, respect and invaluable guidance. I will always be grateful for his faith in me, his encouragement and the lessons he shared.
Dr. Ranjan was a rare and noble soul—humble, compassionate, intellectually brilliant and always willing to help others. A visionary thinker, he believed in using knowledge and abilities to make a meaningful difference. His influence lives on through the people he guided, the work he inspired and the countless lives he touched.
For me, he will always be the elder brother who believed in me and guided me with affection. I will cherish his kindness and lessons forever. May his soul rest in eternal peace. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.
(Ajmer Alam Wani)

