KATRA: Civil Engineering students from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) made a remarkable impact at the 5th International Conference on Waste Management held at IIT Guwahati. Third-year students Rishabh Kumar and Samaira Sinha stood out for their innovative research and confident presentations that received wide appreciation. Rishabh presented a paper on “Enhancing the Quality of Concrete by Replacing Sand in Different Percentages,” offering sustainable alternatives to traditional construction materials through partial sand replacement.

His work was praised for its strong experimental backing and practical application in eco-friendly construction. Importantly, Rishabh’s research contributes to India’s long-term vision for sustainable infrastructure and will support effective waste management in the mission of Developed India @2047. Samaira’s paper, “Sludge Management in Microplastics,” explored effective treatment methods to reduce microplastic contamination in sewage sludge. Her detailed analysis and problem-solving approach toward an emerging environmental threat demonstrated great technical maturity and awareness.

Both students showcased strong research aptitude and communication skills, reflecting the academic strength of SMVDU. Their papers were co-authored by final-year students Rohit Kumar, Shaswat Singh, Abhijeet Gupta, and Bhagyapdeep Sahu, and were selected for publication in a reputed journal.Additionally, Durgesh Kumar of second year presented a paper on “Eco-Friendly Bricks Constructed from Waste Material,” co-authored by Shresth Gupta, Subham, Aniket, Saloni, and Amit, highlighting the potential of waste-based construction materials.

All three papers were guided by Dr. Vaibhav Sapkal, whose mentorship was gratefully acknowledged by the students. Dr. Sapkal and Dr. V.K. Dogra, Head of the Civil Engineering Department, expressed pride in the team’s success and called it a moment of happiness and achievement for SMVDU. He applauded the students for bringing national recognition to the department and showcasing the university’s strength in forward-thinking, sustainable engineering research.

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
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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