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

KISHTWAR: The sacred Pavitra Charri (Holy Mace) of the Shree Machail Mata Ji Yatra 2026, accompanied by thousands of devotees, continued its spiritual journey towards Machail Village this morning here from Shree Gori Shankar Mandir. Earlier, the Holy Mace arrived in Kishtwar yesterday evening for the Annual Shree Machail Mata Ji Yatra 2026.

The district administration Kishtwar, under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma has ensured all necessary arrangements for the smooth conduct of the Shree Machail Mata Ji Yatra 2026, including security, transportation, drinking water facilities, medical aid and other arrangements en route from Kishtwar to Machail.

The Additional District Development Commissioner Vinod Kumar Behal and Additional Deputy Commissioner Pawan Kotwal, along with senior officers from the Civil and Police Administration and a large number of locals, warmly welcomed the Pavitra Charri in Kishtwar town, offering their reverence and seeking blessings. Thereafter, the procession proceeded through the main market amid devotional fervour, where local devotees had darshan of the Pavitra Charri and sought blessings.

The Pavitra Charri was ceremoniously received at Shree Gori Shankar Mandir, Sarkoot, where it rested for the night. The procession resumed its journey towards Machail, Paddar, today amid adequate security arrangements. The pilgrimage with the Holy Mace continues with unwavering devotion, following its traditional route and making scheduled halts at Atholi, Gulabgarh and Chashoti. The Pavitra Charri will reach the sacred Shri Machail Ji Shrine on August 22, 2026 and will begin its return journey on August 24, 2026.

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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