SRINAGAR: Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-Kashmir, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Thursday visited the Dryland Agricultural Research Station (DARS), Rangreth to assess the progress of several transformative projects supported under NABARD, CAPEX, and the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP).

During the visit, Vice Chancellor reviewed the Hi-Tech Polyhouse facility established under NABARD funding, IoT-based Smart Irrigation System developed under the CAPEX scheme, and the Centre of Excellence Laboratory being established under HADP. These initiatives aim to enhance climate resilience, precision agriculture, and advanced R&D capacity in temperate horticulture and protected cultivation systems.

Prof. Mohammad Ashraf Bhat, Associate Director Research (ADR), DARS Rangreth, led the detailed briefing session. He highlighted the strategic importance of DARS in dryland research and innovation, stating, DARS Rangreth is being transformed into a hub of excellence where traditional knowledge meets cutting-edge technology. These ongoing projects will serve as live demonstrations for future-ready, resource-efficient farming systems across Kashmir.

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