In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
  • Directs fool-proof arrangements; calls for seamless coordination among stakeholders

SRINAGAR: Director Information, Shreya Singhal chaired a review meeting at Media Complex here today to take stock of the preparations for the forthcoming 1st International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK).

The meeting was attended by Joint Director Information (Hqr), Dr. Zahoor Ahmad Raina; Joint Director Information Kashmir, Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari; Joint Director Information Jammu, Deepak Dubey; Deputy Director Information (PR/AV), Javid Ahmad Rather; Deputy Director Information (PR) Srinagar, Mohd Rafiq Zullah; Deputy Director Information (Hqr) Jammu, Aashu Kumari; Deputy Director Information (PR) Jammu, Moksha Dogra; Deputy Director Information (Hqr) Kashmir, Zubair Ahmad; Film Production Officer, Afaaq Rasool Gadda; District Information Officers of various districts, Information Officers and other officials of the department, either in person or through video conferencing.

During the meeting, the Director conducted a comprehensive review of the arrangements being put in place for the festival, including venue management, delegate facilitation, hospitality, media management, transportation, cultural programmes, technical support, logistics and other allied arrangements.

Addressing the officers, the Director stressed upon the officers that all preparations should be completed well within the stipulated timelines, leaving no scope for lapses. “Ensure fool-proof arrangements and seamless coordination among all stakeholders for the successful conduct of the prestigious event”, she said.

Emphasizing that the inaugural edition of the International Film Festival marks a significant milestone in Jammu & Kashmir’s cultural and cinematic landscape, Shreya Singhal said the event will provide a global platform to showcase the J&K’s rich heritage, scenic splendour, artistic excellence and immense potential as a preferred destination for film production and creative collaborations.

The Director Information directed all officers and committees concerned to maintain close coordination and ensure effective synergy among the departments and agencies associated with the festival. “Meticulous planning, prompt execution and continuous monitoring of preparations are essential for organizing the event in a smooth, professional and befitting manner”, she maintained.

Shreya Singhal further instructed the officers to regularly review the progress of works assigned to them and address emerging issues expeditiously through coordinated action. She also laid emphasis on robust media and publicity arrangements to ensure extensive outreach and wider visibility of the festival at the national and international levels.

The Director reiterated the commitment of the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) to host the festival to the highest professional standards, making it a landmark celebration of cinema that reflects the cultural vibrancy, creative aspirations and growing global profile of Jammu & Kashmir.

During the meeting, officers briefed the Director Information on the status of preparations in their respective sectors and informed that the arrangements are progressing as per schedule.

Pertinently, the 1st IFFJK is slated to be held from 7th September to 10th September, 2026 and is guided by the theme ‘Rang-e-Cinema’. The festival aims to bring filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences together in one of India’s most distinctive cultural landscapes.

The festival has received overwhelming response with more than 1100 film entries received from around 50 countries under categories like International Competition, Short Film, Bharat Panorama J&K Select, etc. The festival has also received tremendous response from the filmmakers of Jammu and Kashmir, with budding filmmakers, artists and others associated with cinematic world getting big platform to showcase their work and talent.

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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