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

JAMMU: Some visits are remembered not because of what was said, but because of the smiles they leave behind. The Home for the Aged & Infirm (Vridh Ashram), Ambphalla, Jammu witnessed one such beautiful and heartwarming afternoon today when a group of students from the Psychology Department associated with Man Sadhna Foundation visited the Home under the guidance of their teacher, Ms. Pavneet Kaur.

What began as an educational visit soon turned into a beautiful celebration of music, affection, laughter and human connection. The young students spent meaningful time with the elderly residents, interacting with them with warmth and genuine affection. Conversations flowed freely, smiles were exchanged, and for a while, the age difference between the young visitors and the elderly residents seemed to disappear. The interaction created a lovely atmosphere in which the residents felt heard, valued and remembered.

The students added even more colour and happiness to the occasion with a charming dance performance. Their enthusiasm and energy brought smiles to the faces of the residents and filled the Home with joy. A beautiful piano performance further enriched the gathering, creating a gentle and memorable musical moment for everyone present.

For the residents, these were not merely performances. They were moments of companionship—moments that reminded them that there are young hearts willing to spend their time, share their talents and create happiness with them.

The students also took keen interest in understanding the environment and functioning of the Home. Towards the end of the visit, they were taken around the premises and shown the various facilities and areas of the Home, giving them a closer understanding of the day-to-day life and care provided to the residents.

Dr. Dinesh Gupta, Secretary, along with Dr.B.B.Sharma, Ex-CMO and Medical Officer of the Home Dispensary, Mr. Vijay Dhawan, Sr. Rajinder Singh Sh. Satpal Sharma. Mrs Sudha Gupta-all Members of the Managing Committee graced the occasion besides staff members also joined the programme.

The visiting students were Vanshika Dhar, Hargun Kaur, Tanisha Mahajan, Ananya Nischal, Suzain Farooq, Sakshi Khullar, Ashu Raina, Katiyani Mahajan, Aiyza Naz Chib, Diya Bhat, Avni Gupta, Shiny James, Kashvee Jain, Falin Bhan, Ankita Sharma, Navvya Verma, Kismat Gupta, Kanishka Raina, Anjali Kumari, Aarushi Sharma and Prarish Varsha Devyal, along with their teacher Ms. Pavneet Kaur.

The visit concluded with a group photograph, capturing a beautiful moment shared by the students, the residents and members of the Home—a photograph that will remain a cherished reminder of a day when generations came together with open hearts.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Dinesh Gupta, Secretary, appreciated the students and their teacher for spending their valuable time with the residents and for bringing such warmth and happiness to the Home. He observed that interactions between young people and senior citizens are valuable not only for the elderly but also for the younger generation, as they help build empathy, sensitivity, respect and a deeper understanding of life.

The visit by the students of Man Sadhna Foundation beautifully demonstrated that sometimes the greatest gift one can give is not material—it is simply time, companionship and a little happiness.

As the students departed, they left behind more than memories of their visit. They left behind smiles on the faces of the residents, music in the corridors and a feeling of warmth in the hearts of everyone present. Because when young hearts meet the wisdom of age, something truly beautiful happens—a moment becomes a memory, and a visit becomes a bond.

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 👇