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

RAJOURI: In a unique fusion of history, art and education, the Department of Tourism, Rajouri–Poonch organised an innovative Heritage Week Painting Competition at Government Boys Model Higher Secondary School Rajouri.  The event transformed the school grounds into a live open-air art studio, set against the majestic backdrop of Danidhar Fort — one of Rajouri’s most iconic heritage monuments.

The competition aimed not just to test artistic ability, but to awaken historical consciousness among students and inspire them to see heritage as a living legacy. As many as 33 students drawn from the host school, PM SHRI Government Higher Secondary School- Fatehpur; Government Higher Secondary School (Girls), Rajouri and Government Girls Middle School- Danidhar participated in the competition.

Each student was provided with painting kits, certificates, refreshments and mementos — making the competition a warm and inclusive celebration of talent. Students beautifully portrayed heritage sites of the Jammu Division, reflecting a deep appreciation for culture, architecture and history. Their canvases came alive with forts, temples, shrines and traditional symbols of Jammu’s glorious past.

Government Boys Model Higher Secondary School Rajouri clinched Ist Prize, 2nd prize went to PM SHRI Government Higher Secondary School- Fatehpur, while Government Higher Secondary School (Girls), Rajouri bagged 3rd position. The programme was organised by the Directorate of Tourism Jammu under the guidance of Director Tourism, Vikas Gupta and coordinated by Assistant Director Tourism, Mumtaz Ahmad and the host School Principal, Muslim Wani.

To promote Heritage & Cultural Tourism, the department also released and distributed the latest edition of Rajouri Tourism Brochures, highlighting the unexplored treasures of the Peer Panjal region. Students were encouraged to become “Heritage Ambassadors” of their 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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