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

NEW DELHI: In a momentous celebration of dedicated humanitarian service, ethical leadership, and grassroots transformation, Dr. Rohit Koul, Director & CEO of the People’s Hut Foundation, has officially been conferred the prestigious Mahatma Gandhi National Service Award 2026. The distinguished national honor recognizes Dr. Koul’s visionary leadership, exemplary community welfare initiatives, and enduring commitment to fostering positive socio-economic progress across marginalized and underserved communities.

The formal Award of Appreciation was officially presented on August 16, 2026, by Er. Pradeep Kumar Sharma, Founder and Director Jeevan Jagriti Seva Sansthan. The award commends Dr. Koul’s tireless dedication to the betterment of society, highlighting his strategic role in driving meaningful social responsibility, public welfare campaigns, and comprehensive grassroots development programs.

According to the official citation, the recognition honors Dr. Koul’s proactive efforts in advancing community welfare, creating equitable opportunities, and building sustainable, self-reliant ecosystems. His work reflects the core philosophies and enduring ideals of Mahatma Gandhi—centering on compassionate service, inclusive growth, and selfless contribution toward social upliftment. The award committee lauded his humanitarian efforts as a beacon of inspiration for changemakers and civic leaders nationwide.

Under Dr. Koul’s leadership, the People’s Hut Foundation has continually expanded its footprint, implementing high-impact community-driven projects aimed at social welfare, capacity building, and sustainable livelihood generation. His forward-looking approach has bridged critical gaps in community support systems, fostering resilient networks that empower individuals to become active participants in nation-building.

Expressing gratitude upon receiving the award, Dr. Rohit Koul dedicated the honor to the grassroots workers, volunteers, and communities collaborating with the People’s Hut Foundation. The accolade serves as a significant milestone, reaffirming the organization’s overarching mission to champion inclusive growth, social justice, and impactful humanitarian service on a national scale.

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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