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

BHADERWAH: The Directorate of Census Operations, J&K and Ladakh, in collaboration with Bhaderwah Campus, University of Jammu, organised a seminar on “Census 2027 – Counting Today, Shaping Tomorrow” at Bhaderwah Campus, with the objective of sensitising stakeholders about the significance of Census 2027, the importance of accurate and inclusive data, and its crucial role in informed policy-making, development planning and nation-building.

In his message, Prof. Rahul Gupta, Rector, Bhaderwah Campus, highlighted the importance of the Census as a vital source of demographic, social and economic information. He emphasised that accurate census data forms the foundation for effective governance, equitable resource allocation and evidence-based planning. He also appreciated the Directorate of Census Operations for organising the awareness programme at the Campus and involving students and faculty in the process.

Mr. Amit Sharma, Director, Census Operations, J&K and Ladakh, who was the Chief Guest, spoke about the significance of Census 2027 and stressed the need for active public participation and accurate information for building a reliable demographic database. He urged students to become ambassadors of census awareness and help spread the message of responsible participation. He further urged students and faculty members to actively contribute towards creating greater awareness about Census 2027 and stressed that every citizen has an important role in ensuring that the census exercise is accurate, comprehensive and inclusive. He appreciated Bhaderwah Campus for collaborating with the Directorate in organising the awareness seminar and expressed hope that such initiatives would help in building greater public participation and understanding of the census process.

Prof. Rakesh Sharma, Head, Department of English and Officiating Rector, Bhaderwah Campus, also addressed the gathering and underlined the importance of Census data in understanding societal changes and formulating development-oriented policies. Dr. Kuljit Singh, Academic Coordinator, Bhaderwah Campus, presented the welcome address and extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries, officials, faculty members and students.

Mr. Manmeet Singh, Deputy Director, Census Operations, addressed the gathering and elaborated on various aspects of Census 2027. A detailed presentation on Census 2027 was delivered by Mr. Balbir Singh, Assistant Director, Census Operations, who explained the census process, its objectives and the importance of accurate and comprehensive data collection.

A debate competition was also organised on the occasion, in which students from different departments participated enthusiastically. The first three winners were felicitated, while certificates were presented to all participating students.

The programme was attended by Mr. Sunil Kumar Butyal, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Bhaderwah; Mr. Kamal Preet Singh, Tehsildar, Bhaderwah; Mr. Vijay Kumar, Assistant Director, Census Operations; Prof. Subash Chander; Dr. Shayan Javed; Dr. Umesh Choudhary; Dr. Neeraj Sharma; Dr. Mohammed Avais; faculty members from various departments, teaching and non-teaching staff, and a large number of students.

Arif Haleem, External Relations Officer, Bhaderwah Campus, presented the formal vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to the Directorate of Census Operations, J&K and Ladakh, the dignitaries, faculty members, staff and students for their valuable participation and contribution to the successful conduct of the seminar.

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 👇