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

SRINAGAR: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg today took a comprehensive review of the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom (H&H) in a meeting here. The meeting was attended by Commissioner SMC, Director Handicrafts & Handloom, Director Tourism Kashmir, DD Planning, officers of Floriculture and H&H.

At the outset, Director H&H gave overview of the envisioned projects and strategies, to promote H&H sector, including Operationalization of Kashmir Haat on the Pattern of Dilli Haat,  Fencing of DHHK Land Near Secretariat and PCR, Craft Gallery under Srinagar Smart City Project at Batmaloo, PM Unity (Ekta) Mall Proposal at Kashmir Haat, KnowYour Artisan Series under Soulful Kashmir Brand, Craft Tourism Villages Scheme and Dovetailing Handicrafts with Tulip and Chrysanthemum Festivals.

The meeting held threadbare discussion regarding the agenda points to promote local craft & artisans through meticulous blending of inter-departmental calendar of activities. To address the car parking issue near Kashmir Haat, the Div Com instructed Director H&H to adopt a judicious mechanism for optimum utilization of available parking space  to facilitate visitors to Exhibition Ground.

He also asked Commissioner SMC to earmark some shops for Hi-end craft entrepreneurs at Souq Market Batmaloo for the promotion and showcase of GI-tagged products. The meeting also discussed the envisioned project of developing and Operationalization of Kashmir Haat on the Pattern of Dilli Haat with the objective to convert it  into a vibrant cultural and commercial hub. 

Director H&H shared success of 'Know Your Artisan Series' under Soulful Kashmir Brand and proposed  institutionalizing future events by integrating artisan stalls, live demonstrations, cultural showcases, and market linkages. He also apprised land transfer issue for the development of Craft Tourism Village of Sonpah near Doodhpathri.

Speaking on the occasion, the Div Com emphasized on drafting holistic plan for 'Know Your Artisan' events to be held in Schools, colleges and other institutions. He also stressed on integration of calendar of activities with Tourism Department to organize activities at Tourist Sites, Heritage Places, Yatra Stations and other vibrant locations around Dal lake besides during the winter games.

He called for training of tour guides to engage and encourage tourists to visit craft clusters in Srinagar and also advised for taking hoteliers and tour operators on board for collaboration in enhancing visits. Regarding sale of fake Handloom products, the Div Com directed for strict action against erring hoteliers selling counterfeit goods to tourists.

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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