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

JAMMU: Reinforcing its commitment to strengthening the professional capabilities of its field functionaries and promoting technical excellence in sports administration, the Directorate of Youth Services & Sports, (DYSS) J&K, under the leadership of Anuradha Gupta, Director General, YSS has begun a 5 day Chess Arbiter Course in collaboration with the All India Chess Federation (AICF) at Jammu, from 14th to 18th July, 2026.

The specialized training programme is designed to enhance the technical knowledge and officiating skills of Physical Education Masters (PEMs), Physical Education Teachers (PETs), and Rehbar-e-Khel (ReKs) by providing comprehensive training on the Laws of Chess, FIDE regulations, tournament management, Swiss and round-robin pairing systems, score sheet management, dispute resolution, and the roles and responsibilities of arbiters. The course aims to prepare departmental officials to conduct chess competitions professionally and in accordance with national and international standards.

Interacting with the participants, Inder Jeet Singh Parihar, Joint Director, Youth Services & Sports, Jammu lauded the visionary leadership of DG YSS for initiating a series of professional development programmes aimed at upgrading the technical competencies of the department's workforce. He emphasized that continuous capacity building is essential for ensuring quality sports administration and nurturing a strong sporting culture at the grassroots level. He further urged the participants to effectively utilize the knowledge gained during the course for organizing scientifically managed chess competitions across educational institutions in Jammu & Kashmir.

The inaugural ceremony was also graced by the Planning and Development Programme Coordinator, All India Chess Federation, who appreciated the Directorate's proactive efforts in promoting chess through structured training initiatives. He highlighted AICF's continued commitment to developing a strong pool of qualified arbiters and technical officials across the country and encouraged participants to uphold the highest standards of fairness, professionalism, and integrity while officiating chess events.

Baldev Raj, former President, J&K Chess Association, also addressed the gathering and shared his rich experience in the development of chess in the region. He appreciated the collaborative initiative of the Directorate and AICF, describing it as a significant milestone in strengthening the technical ecosystem of chess in Jammu & Kashmir. The course is being conducted by experienced resource persons Ritesh Pathania deputed by the All India Chess Federation and has attracted enthusiastic participation from PEMs, PETs, and ReKs representing all 20 districts of the UT of J&K, reflecting the department's collective commitment towards professional excellence and sports development.

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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