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

KISHTWAR: To enhance farmers' knowledge and exposing them to modern agricultural technologies and best farming practices, the Agriculture Department Kishtwar on Monday organized a seven-day exposure visit/training Programme for a batch of 96 farmers from different parts of the district to Palampur Himachal Pradesh under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) ATMA 2026-27.

The exposure visit is being conducted from 06.07.2026 to 12.07.2026 at CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya Palampur, Himachal Pradesh.

The batch of farmers was flagged off by Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Vinod Kumar Behnal in presence of Additional Deputy Commissioner Pawan Kotwal; Chief Agriculture Officer (CAO) Kushal Chandel and other officers and officials of the Agriculture Department.

During the seven-day training programme, the participating farmers will be exposed to advanced and scientific agricultural practices through visits to the University Farms, where they will observe the latest crop production technologies and research initiatives. The programme also includes interactive sessions with progressive farmers to facilitate the exchange of practical experiences and innovative farming techniques.

In addition, the farmers will visit tea farms and tea processing units to learn about tea cultivation and value addition, the Hing Research Station to understand the cultivation and research of high-value crops and the Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT) to gain knowledge about bioresource management, agri-innovations and technology-driven farming practices.

The ADDC highlighted that exposure visits under CSS-ATMA are an important extension activity aimed at bridging the gap between agricultural research and field-level adoption. He expressed confidence that the knowledge and practical experience gained during the programme would enable the participating farmers to adopt improved technologies, diversify their farming systems and enhance productivity and income. He also urged the farmers to share their learnings with other farmers in their respective villages after returning from the tour.

The participating farmers expressed immense enthusiasm and gratitude towards the Agriculture Department Kishtwar for providing them with the opportunity to visit one of the country's premier agricultural institutions. The Farmers were excited to learn modern farming techniques, interact with experts and progressive farmers and bring back valuable knowledge that would help improve agriculture in Kishtwar district.

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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