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

SRINAGAR: In a significant initiative to encourage and promote emerging filmmaking talent from Jammu & Kashmir, the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) has announced the IFFJK Emerging Filmmakers Competition 2026, as part of the scheduled 1st International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK), with registrations for the competition  commence from today 6th August, 2026.

The competition is exclusively open to aspiring filmmakers from Jammu & Kashmir and aims to provide a prestigious platform for young storytellers to showcase their creativity, cinematic vision and technical skills through original short films.

The aspiring and emerging filmmakers are invited to submit original short films with a maximum duration of five minutes and the last date for submission is August 26, 2026. The applicants must be between 18 and 39 years of age as on September 1, 2026, and possess a valid Jammu & Kashmir domicile certificate.

The competition is being organised around the theme “Rang-e-Cinema: Frames of a New Jammu & Kashmir”, reflecting the evolving cultural, social and creative narratives of the region while encouraging youth to present compelling stories through the medium of cinema.

Interested filmmakers and cinematographers are advised to register by visiting the official IFFJK website www.iffjk.org and the detailed guidelines, eligibility criteria and the registration process are also available on this website for ease of aspirants.

DIPR urges aspiring filmmakers from across Jammu & Kashmir to seize this opportunity and contribute towards strengthening the Union Territory’s growing film culture through innovative and impactful storytelling.

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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