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

MUMBAI: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today addressed leading stakeholders from the travel and trade sector in Mumbai, calling upon them to partner with the government in promoting Jammu & Kashmir as a safe, vibrant and all-season tourism destination.

Addressing travel agents, tour operators and representatives of travel associations from Maharashtra and Gujarat, the Chief Minister underlined that the outreach was not about selling the destination, but about strengthening trust and partnership.

“Today I have not come to promote Jammu and Kashmir tourism. I have not come to sell J&K as a tourist destination amongst you. Today I have not come to talk about the beauty of J&K. As much as I know about the beauty of Kashmir, you also know it,”

the Chief Minister said, while stressing the long-standing bond between Jammu & Kashmir and the travel fraternity of Maharashtra and Gujarat.

Addressing travel agents, tour operators and representatives of travel associations from Maharashtra and Gujarat, the Chief Minister emphasized the vital role played by Maharashtra in supporting and strengthening J&K’s tourism sector over the years. He particularly acknowledged the solidarity and continued support extended by Maharashtra-based travel agencies in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack last year, noting that their confidence helped restore tourist inflow and trust in the destination.

“Maharashtra has always been one of the strongest source markets for Jammu & Kashmir tourism. The support shown by the travel fraternity, especially during challenging times, reflects a deep and enduring partnership,” the Chief Minister said.

The event, organised as part of the Maharashtra and Gujarat Travel Fraternity Outreach in Mumbai, also witnessed the felicitation of prominent travel agents and associations for their contribution towards promoting Jammu & Kashmir tourism. The Chief Minister highlighted the diverse tourism offerings of the region, including leisure, adventure, pilgrimage and wellness tourism, and reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring safety, infrastructure development and a tourist-friendly environment.

The outreach programme was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani; Member of Parliament Gurinder Singh Shammi; MLA Gulmarg Peerzada Farooq Ahmed Shah; Director Tourism Jammu Vikas Gupta; and heads and representatives of major travel bodies from Maharashtra and Gujarat.

The interaction provided a platform for dialogue, collaboration and renewed commitment to position Jammu & Kashmir as a preferred destination for domestic and international tourists alike.

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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