KATRA: The School of Mechanical Engineering at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), in collaboration with the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), successfully organized a two-day workshop on “Innovations in Tribology and Robotics” on April 21st and 22nd, 2025. In the era of smart manufacturing and intelligent systems, these domains play a transformative role across industries such as automotive, aerospace, biomedical engineering, and industrial automation.

The event featured two distinguished experts Prof. Shakti K Gupta and Dr. Manjesh Kumar, from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur.Prof. S.K Gupta delivered a session on Robotics and Industrial Applications while Dr. Manjesh spoke about the material and tribological aspects of Robotics. The talks were followed by interactive Q&A segments, which sparked lively discussions among participants, including faculty members, research scholars, and students.

Further, a panel discussion was moderated by Dr. Ankush Raina on the future of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence, which saw active participation from Dr. YatheshthAnand, Head, School of Mechanical Engineering, Dr. Shashi B. Kotwal and Mr. Swastik Gupta from the School of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Dr. Prabhu Omar (School of Electrical Engineering ), Dr. Vipal Sharma (School of Computer Science Engineering ) The panel emphasized emerging AI trends, the integration of intelligent systems in robotics, and the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration.

The workshop was jointly coordinated by Dr. Mir Irfan UlHaq (Associate Professor, SME) and Dr. Ankush Raina (Assistant Professor, SME). The event was attended by UG, PG and PhD students of various schools. Dr. Pradeep Singh (Assistant Professor, SME) also participated in the various discussions. The organizers thanked SMVDU administration and Vice Chancellor Prof. Pragati Kumar for providing the opportunity and providing all support to organize the event.

Pertinently , SMVDU announced that starting from the upcoming academic year, the university will offer a B. Tech in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence. This new undergraduate program is set to equip students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills in the rapidly growing fields of robotics and AI, opening up numerous career opportunities in advanced technology sectors.

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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