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

JAMMU: Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment, Javed Ahmad Rana, today informed that the Department of Wildlife Protection has taken several measures to effectively and promptly mitigate human–wild boar conflict in and around Dachigam National Park, including New Theed village. The Minister was replying to a Calling Attention Motion moved by Salman Ali Sagar on behalf of Ali Mohammad Sagar in the Legislative Assembly.

The Minister stated that, as part of mitigation efforts, a cement concrete toe wall has been constructed along the existing chain-link fencing over an approximate length of 3 kilometre to prevent wild boars from burrowing beneath the fence. He added that regular anti-plastic and sanitation drives are being conducted within and around Dachigam National Park to remove waste that may attract wild boars.

He further informed that the Dachigam Control Room is functioning round the clock to respond to incidents of wild boar sightings outside the park. The Minister said that due to effective management of the human–wild boar conflict, no human injuries have been reported so far in and around Dachigam National Park, including New Theed village.

He added that regular advisories and awareness programmes are being conducted in fringe villages, particularly for the farming communities. In addition, regular patrolling is being carried out and equipment such as noise guns and firecrackers are used, whenever required, to deter wild boars from entering affected villages.

The reply further stated that the wild boar (Sus scrofa) is an alien invasive species in the Kashmir habitat in general and Dachigam National Park in particular and was introduced during the reign of Maharaja Gulab Singh (1846–1857) for hunting purposes.

It was also informed that Hangul population estimation is carried out by the Department every two years. As per the data, the estimated Hangul population has shown a steady increase over the past decade—from 183 in 2015 to 214 in 2017, 237 in 2019, 261 in 2021, 289 in 2023 and 323 in 2025.

The data indicates a consistent rise in the Hangul population, suggesting that the increase in wild boar population has not adversely affected the growth of Hangul in Dachigam National Park.

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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