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

SRINAGAR: In a landmark initiative aimed at positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a vibrant destination for cinema, culture and creative industries, the Government has accorded sanction for the organisation of the 1st International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK), scheduled to be held at SKICC Srinagar and other prominent destinations  from September 7 to 11, 2026.

The prestigious international event will be organised by the Directorate of Information & Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu & Kashmir, in collaboration with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC). The festival is envisioned as a major platform to showcase cinematic excellence, promote cultural exchange and highlight Jammu and Kashmir’s immense potential as a preferred destination for film production and tourism.

The International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir will bring together filmmakers, producers, directors, actors, industry experts, critics and cinema enthusiasts from across India and abroad. The event is expected to feature screenings of acclaimed national and international films, panel discussions, master classes, interactive sessions, cultural programmes and networking opportunities for stakeholders from the film and entertainment sector.

The festival is also expected to provide significant exposure to local talent, encourage emerging filmmakers, and create avenues for collaboration between the regional film fraternity and the global cinema industry. Through this initiative, the Government aims to further strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s growing reputation as a hub for filmmaking and creative expression

The maiden edition of the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir is expected to mark a significant milestone in the Union Territory’s cultural calendar and contribute substantially to the promotion of tourism, creative industries, youth engagement and economic activity associated with the film sector.

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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