SRINAGAR: The Incubation and Startup Cell of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), under the aegis of Jammu and Kashmir Competitive Innovation Programme (JKCIP), organized a one-day outreach programme titled 'Igniting Young Minds: Bridging Innovation and Opportunity.'

The event aimed to inspire, educate, and engage budding agri-preneurs across the region, facilitating dialogue between stakeholders in innovation, research, and agriculture.

The programme was attended by Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-K, who emphasized the need for cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset among the youth.  Earlier, Dr. Ashaq Pandit, Coordinator JKCIP, SKUAST-K, In his introductory remarks provided an overview of the objectives of JKCIP. 

Dr. Sartaj Ahmad Shah, Director of Agriculture, Kashmir, brought attention to critical challenges faced by farmers and entrepreneurs in the region, including climate vulnerability, market access, and lack of technological integration. He encouraged young minds to develop need-based, scalable solutions tailored to the unique agro-climatic conditions of the valley.

Prof. Haroon Naik, Director Research and Nodal Officer JKCIP at SKUAST-K, spoke about the various components of the JKCIP and its strategic vision to create an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship in Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural sector.

Officers of the University, including Director planning and Monitoring, Prof. S. A. Wani, Registrar Azmat Alam Khan, several HoDs and students from across the valley attended the workshop.

The outreach programme witnessed active participation from students, researchers, young entrepreneurs, and agri-startup aspirants. It served as a platform for knowledge exchange, mentorship, and ideation, reinforcing SKUAST-K’s vision to be a hub for agricultural innovation in the region.

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