AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology today held its12th meeting of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) at the main campus. The meeting was chaired by the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor. The meeting was attended by the Dean Academic Affairs, Registrar, Controller of Examinations, Dean Outreach, Deans of Schools, faculty members, University officers, external members, and a student representative.

Welcoming the members, the Chairperson emphasized the critical role of IQAC in strengthening academic quality, governance, transparency, sustainability, and student-centric services in the university. The quarterly meeting of the 12th IQAC highlights the leadership’s commitment to periodic quality review of various issues in the University.

Director, DIQA, Dr. Peer Bilal, apprised the Committee of key institutional achievements during 2025. IUST secured first time entry in three categories of NIRF-2025. The University was also conferred the 6th National Water Award in the Best Institution category for its initiatives in water conservation. The Director also presented major academic and institutional milestones, including the introduction of new undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in emerging and interdisciplinary areas, a nearly 70% increase in student admissions over the past two years, and placements reaching 75%.

Significant progress in research and innovation has been achieved this academic year with faculty publishing 376 Scopus-indexed research papers, attracting 9,975 citations, and the University’s Scopus h-index rising to 75. During 2025, 35 patents were published and/or granted, and IUST retained its 4-Star rating under the Ministry of Education’s Institutions Innovation Council framework.

The IQAC reviewed the Action Taken Report of the 11th IQAC meeting and deliberated on agenda items including a Gender Audit, strengthening of the Plagiarism Policy with AI-related provisions, adoption of a University-wide Waste Management Policy, review of the Student Satisfaction Survey, and implementation of a uniform examination pattern.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇

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