In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

KATRA: The School of Mechanical Engineering at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), Katra, a renowned institution committed to sustainability and environmental conservation, organized a National One-Day Workshop on “Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy” in collaboration with the J&K Science Technology and Innovation Council (JKSTIC), Udhampur. The workshop aimed to equip participants with the knowledge, tools, and motivation needed to take meaningful action on climate change.

Through expert presentations, engaging discussions, and interactive sessions, participants explored strategies to combat climate change and adapt to its impacts. In his keynote address, Prof. K R Jha, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at SMVDU, underscored the university's proactive efforts in organizing high-quality workshops, conferences, and awareness programs. He emphasized the value of such initiatives in expanding participants' knowledge and advancing sustainable development practices. Prof. Jha also highlighted the importance of raising public awareness to foster sustainable growth and empower climate action.

Shruti Khanna, District Coordinator of JKSTIC, highlighted the importance of government initiatives in promoting renewable energy adoption and energy conservation at the grassroots level. She discussed the state's efforts to integrate technology and innovation into energy systems, ensuring both sustainability and inclusivity. The event included expert sessions by Dr. Sahil Kalra, Assistant Professor at IIT Jammu, who discussed the implementation of energy efficiency in automation, and Dr.Pothukuchi Harish, also an Assistant Professor at IIT Jammu, who elaborated on the role of simulations in enhancing energy efficiency, supplemented with practical insights on their applications.

Dr. Yatheshth Anand, Head of the School of Mechanical Engineering and program coordinator, highlighted the pressing global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and ecosystem degradation. He stressed the need for knowledge-sharing initiatives to accelerate the transition toward a sustainable future. Dr. Ankush Raina, Assistant Professor and organizing secretary of the program, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the critical role of education in driving climate action and promoting sustainability.

The event's inaugural session was co-coordinated by Dr. Vineet Tyagi, Dean of R&D, and was attended by Deans and Heads of various schools. Dr. Ankush Raina concluded the event with a formal vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all contributors and participants. This workshop underscored SMVDU's commitment to fostering education, innovation, and action in sustainability and renewable energy

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
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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