SRINAGAR: Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) today celebrated the 150th year of the iconic patriotic song ‘Vande Mataram’ with great zeal and national fervor at the SMC Headquarters, Karan Nagar, Srinagar.  The event was organized under the directions of the Commissioner, SMC /CEO, Srinagar Smart City Ltd.,  Faz Lul Haseeb, in synchronization with the instructions issued by the Divisional and District Administration.

The celebration aimed to commemorate the historic legacy of the national song that continues to inspire generations with its message of love, unity, and devotion to the motherland. The program began with the unfurling of the National Flag and the playing of the National Anthem, followed by the screening of a short film and the National Song ‘Vande Mataram’, presented with dignity and pride.

On the occasion Department of Information also participated enthusiastically, expressing their respect and admiration for the song that played a vital role in shaping India’s freedom movement. Joint Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Suhail Ul Islam presided over the function and highlighted that ‘Vande Mataram’ is not merely a song but a profound symbol of India’s unity, strength, and spiritual essence. He elaborated on historical significance of National song 'Vande Mataram’ , which became a rallying cry for freedom fighters during India’s struggle for independence, a lyrical embodiment of devotion to the motherland and the spirit of sacrifice, he added.

He emphasized that the song’s message of “Mother as the Nation” continues to remind every citizen of their duty towards the country. He urged SMC officials to imbibe the spirit of patriotism, honesty, and dedication reflected in the song while serving the people of Srinagar. 

Cultural Officer Kashmir also shared insights into the historical and emotional resonance of ‘Vande Mataram’. He noted that the song, adopted as the national song of India, continues to serve as a reminder of unity in diversity, binding people across regions, faiths, and languages in the shared spirit of nationhood. He commended SMC for organizing the celebration with such devotion and respect for the country’s cultural legacy.

The speakers emphasized that such occasions reinforce collective responsibility, harmony, and national integrity that are essential for societal progress and nation-building. The celebration will continue till the 14th of November and will be observed across all 35 wards of SMC, featuring a series of cultural activities and community programs organized in collaboration with the Department of Culture to spread the message of unity, harmony, and national pride.

Prominent officers and officials present on the occasion included Joint Commissioner, SMC, Syed Abul Qasim ; Joint Commissioner (Works) Hamid Iqbal Mir; Superintending Engineer (City Drainage Circle), SMC, Divisional Forest Officer, SMC, Executive Engineer (City Roads) and Chief Sanitation Officer, SMC, along with other officers and officials of the Corporation. Their participation added significance to the celebration and reflected the collective commitment of SMC towards fostering civic unity and patriotic values.

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