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

SRINAGAR: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Saturday laid the foundation stone for the revival and restoration of the historic Vittal Bhairav Temple at Motiyar, Rainawari, in Srinagar district, marking a significant step towards preserving Kashmir’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

The restoration project is being undertaken at an estimated cost of Rs 2.84 crore under the Government’s heritage conservation initiative. The project aims to preserving the temple’s historical, religious and cultural significance.

Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation Dr Basharat Qayoom, Director Archives, representatives of the Kashmiri Pandit community and other concerned officials were present on the occasion.

During his visit, the Chief Secretary reviewed various components of the proposed restoration project and directed the concerned officers to expedite the work while ensuring strict adherence to prescribed timelines and quality standards.

Emphasising the importance of the project, Atal Dulloo said the restoration and conservation efforts were aimed at reviving the temple’s decades old glory and preserving its architectural and cultural heritage.

He said the initiative reflected the Government’s commitment to conserving the region’s heritage while recognising the cultural contributions of different communities of Kashmir’s diverse social fabric.

The Chief Secretary observed that the temple holds considerable historical, cultural and religious significance and represents an important part of Kashmir’s shared heritage. He expressed hope that the restoration work would help preserve its aesthetic appeal, heritage value and social significance for future generations.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz, Chief Planning Officer Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Joint Commissioners of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation Syed Abu Qasim and Nuzhat Qureshi, Superintending Engineer R&B Tatheer Manzoor, along with Officers from the R&B, PHE, KPDCL, SMC, Police, Revenue and other concerned departments, were present on the occasion.

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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