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AWANTIPORA: The Department of Environment, Sustainability & Climate Change, Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST), in collaboration with the Social Forestry Department, Pulwama; Floriculture Department, Kashmir; and the Department of Ecology, Environment & Remote Sensing (DEERS), organized a Plantation Drive cum Environmental Awareness Campaign at the IUST campus today. The initiative aimed to promote environmental consciousness and sustainability among students and faculty members.

The event was inaugurated by Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, Hon'ble Vice Chancellor, IUST, in the presence of Prof. Abdul Wahid Makdoomi, Registrar, IUST; Prof. A.H. Moon, Dean Academics; Prof. Humayun Rashid, Professor of Practice; Prof. Parvez A. Mir, CEO, CIED; Ms. Gazalla Abdullah, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Social Forestry, Pulwama; Shri Manzoor Ahmad Beig, Executive Engineer, R&B Pulwama; Shri S. Iqbal Qurashi, Deputy Registrar, Estates; Dr. Asifa Baba, Dean Students Welfare; Dr. Sumira Nazir Zaz, Coordinator, Department of Environment, Sustainability & Climate Change; Dr. Dharam Chand, Coordinator, Biodiversity & Aromatic Park; Shri Sajad Ahmad Khaki, Mass Media Officer (DEERS); Dr. Yasir Altaf; and Dr. Zubair Ahmad Dar, along with other faculty members, students, and field staff from the collaborating departments.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Romshoo underscored the importance of collective efforts in addressing climate change and environmental degradation. He highlighted the role of youth in safeguarding natural resources and urged students to actively participate in green initiatives. Prof. Humayun Rashid emphasized the significance of environmental conservation and the role of academic institutions in fostering sustainability and positive attitudes.

The plantation drive is part of a larger environmental awareness campaign initiated by the Department of Environment, Sustainability & Climate Change. The campaign aims to encourage tree plantation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable environmental practices within and beyond the university campus. As part of the initiative, 50 Chinar saplings were provided by the Floriculture Department, while 250 Deodar saplings were supplied by the Social Forestry Department. The local community also participated actively in the plantation drive, further reinforcing the shared responsibility toward a greener future.

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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