SRINAGAR: Dr. Majid Hussain, Assistant Professor at Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar has secured funding from the prestigious RESPOND Programme of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for his research project titled "Modelling or experimental work related to interplanetary/planetary dust."

The project, approved by the Chairman of ISRO and the Secretary of the Department of Space (DOS), has received funding for a duration of two years. The research is expected to make significant contributions to the understanding of planetary and interplanetary dust dynamics, with potential applications in space exploration and planetary sciences.

As per the official communication from ISRO, the Department of Space will release the sanctioned funds annually through the Central Nodal Agency (CNA) Scheme. In an official letter dated March 11, 2025, addressed to Dr. Majid, ISRO confirmed the approval of the project and outlined the necessary administrative procedures for fund disbursement.

The letter was signed by M.A. Paul on behalf of ISRO’s RESPOND Programme, headquartered at Antariksh Bhavan, New BEL Road, Bengaluru. Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Majid Hussain said that this project will contribute to scientific advancements in planetary dust modeling, benefiting both fundamental research and space missions.

ā€œI am thankful to ISRO for recognizing and supporting our work,ā€ adding that both the Department of Civil Engineering and faculty community at NIT Srinagar are committed to advancing knowledge in planetary science and space technology. The project will focus on the interaction between the rower/lander and lunar & martian regolith," Dr Majid said.

In her message, Prof. Roohie Naaz, Incharge-Director NIT Srinagar congratulated Dr. Hussain on this remarkable achievement, emphasizing that this recognition underscores NIT Srinagar’s commitment to cutting-edge research and its growing collaboration with premier national institutions. ā€œWe take immense pride in Dr. Hussain’s accomplishment and look forward to further strengthening our research capabilities in space sciences,ā€ he said.

Institute’s Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman extended his congratulations to Dr. Majid Hussain and stated that it is a proud moment for the institute as well as the research community at NIT Srinagar. ā€œWe are confident that this project will make valuable contributions to the field of space science and planetary research,ā€ Prof. Rehman added.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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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