The Survival Fight of JK Monitor: For 16 years, JK Monitor has chronicled Jammu and Kashmir with integrity. Since 2010, I have steered its newsroom alongside our visionary Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan (IIT Kharagpur alumnus, University of Maryland Ph.D.). His tragic demise in October 2026 left a severe financial and operational vacuum. Without urgent support, our 24/7 news portal risks permanently shutting down after November 2026, remaining only as a static digital archive. We appeal to well-wishers to extend a helping hand to keep our active newsroom alive. Support Us: WhatsApp: +91-9906103001 | Email: journalistajmerwani@gmail.com

JAMMU: Minister for Higher Education, Sakeena Itoo, today informed the House that the age of superannuation in respect of University Professors is being extended by a Review Committee under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary. The Minister was replying to a question raised by Dr. Narinder Singh Raina in the Legislative Assembly.

She informed that the Committee also comprises Vice-Chancellor of the concerned University and Administrative Secretary, Higher Education Department, J&K. The Committee may co-opt a member from the Finance/Law Department and Special Secretary/Additional Secretary from the Higher Education Department, she added.

The Minister said that the Review Committee has decided to approve the extension of the eligible superannuating Professors for 03 years from 62 to 65 years. However, on completion of each year the concerned Vice Chancellor shall review the performance in each case subject to the minimum benchmark relating to Research Publications, Classroom Teaching, Academic Contribution and overall work and conduct of the concerned in the preceding year. She said that continuation of such Professors shall be subject to attaining such minimum benchmark.

The Minister said that the method has been meticulously structured to prevent any favoritism or a pick and choose approach, thereby, holding the principles of fairness and institutional integrity. She said that it is rule based and each case is scrutinized in light of the laid down parameters including general conduct and behaviour in terms of integrity, thereby reinforcing the credibility of the mechanism, leaving no scope for arbitrary decision-making.

The Minister said that enhancement of superannuation age of University Professors is structured, meticulously designed to ensure that extensions are granted solely on the basis of merit, eligibility criteria and compliance with the established parameters.

The Minister said that the mechanism is not intended to foster a culture of sycophancy but rather to uphold the highest academic and ethical standards in the selection process. She said that UT of J&K has implemented the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020 in letter and spirit.

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