DODA: The Handicrafts Service Centre (HSC) Udhampur today announced the successful conclusion of its three-day Craft Demonstration cum Awareness Programme, held from July 24 to July 26, 2025, at Government Girls Higher Secondary School Bhaderwah and Government Boys Higher Secondary School Bhaderwah in District Doda.

 The program featured demonstrations by four accomplished resource persons Sona Rupi (State Awardee Basohli Painting), Sandhya Hans (Embroidery Craft), Nasreena (Paper Machie Craft) and Rajinder Kumar (Bamboo Craft). Students from both schools actively participated, showing significant interest and engagement in learning the foundational techniques of these traditional crafts.

The Principals and staff members of the schools commended HSC Udhampur for the initiative, highlighting how such programs are crucial in fostering creativity and skill development among young individuals. Assistant Director (A&C) HSC Udhampur Ambika Sambyal, addressed the students, providing insights into various schemes offered by the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) and emphasizing the critical role of skill development in preserving and promoting India's rich cultural heritage. She underscored the importance of students understanding their cultural roots to ensure these valuable traditions continue for generations to come.

The success of the event was also largely due to the collaborative efforts of school resource persons, including Dheeraj Kapoor (State Awardee Basohli Painting), Manjeet Kumar (Bamboo Craft), Khushi Gupta (Crochet Craft) and Asiya Begum (Paper Machie). HSC Udhampur officials extended their heartfelt gratitude to Chief Education Officer Doda Mr.Mohammad Hafiz for his invaluable cooperation in facilitating these programs within the schools. Additionally, Manzoor Ahmed, Teacher at UPS Kumral, Zone Gundna, contributed significantly to the program's overall success.

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