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

KULGAM: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today laid the foundation stone for revival and restoration of the historic Dharamshala at Mata Kantiyani Bhagwati Asthapan, Kakran, in Kulgam district.

The restoration project, being executed by the PWD (R&B) Division, D.H. Pora, has been sanctioned at an estimated cost of â‚č2.84 crore. The initiative is aimed at preserving the religious, cultural, and historical significance of the Dharamshala while providing improved facilities for the pilgrims and visitors.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Secretary emphasized the importance of conserving the heritage sites and strengthening the public infrastructure. He said the project would not only enhance the experience of devotees but also promote religious tourism and contribute to the socio-economic development of the region. He stressed the need for timely completion of the work while ensuring the highest standards of quality and heritage conservation.

During his visit, the Chief Secretary also interacted with the members of the Kashmiri Pandit community. Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Alam, briefed the Chief Secretary on the proposed restoration works and highlighted the district administration's ongoing efforts to preserve heritage assets and improve civic amenities across the district.

Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Kuldeep Krishan Sidha, underlined the cultural and historical significance of the Dharamshala. The foundation stone laying ceremony was also attended by Senior Superintendent of Police Kulgam, Anayat Ali Choudhary, ADDC, Altaf Ahmad Khan, ACD, Executive Engineer, PWD (R&B) Division D.H. Pora, other officers of the district administration, officials of the PWD (R&B) Division D.H. Pora, representatives of the Kashmiri Pandit community and other concerned officials.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇