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

JAMMU:  The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (JKAACL), in collaboration with Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) Jammu organized a vibrant folk music and dance program here at K.L. Saigal Hall. The event marked the valedictory ceremony of the five-day Interstate Youth Exchange Program (ISYEP), celebrating a journey of learning, cultural exchange, and unity.

The program was graced by Secretary, J&K Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages, Harvinder Kaur as the Chief Guest. The Guests of Honor included Ranjeet Kalra (Sports Administrator & Faculty Member, University of Jammu), Javed Rahi (Chief Editor, Gojri) and Aijaz Qaisar (Joint Director, Tourism J&K).

A key highlight of the concluding ceremony was the Cultural Exchange, where participants from Haryana showcased their rich traditions through captivating folk dances and songs. In response, renowned artists from Jammu & Kashmir, Asha Kesar and Shamsher Singh, enthralled the audience with traditional folk performances, including Bhakhaan and Kaarkaan, offering a mesmerizing display of India’s cultural diversity.

During the event, participants from Haryana shared their enriching five-day experience, expressing gratitude to MY Bharat - Nehru Yuva Kendra Jammu and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for facilitating such a meaningful exchange program. They highlighted how the initiative enabled them to explore India’s cultural diversity, build friendships, and gain valuable insights into different traditions.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Guest Harvinder Kaur applauded the participants for their performances and appreciated the efforts of MY Bharat-NYKS in organizing such programs for youth empowerment. She emphasized the importance of cultural exchange in fostering national integration, mutual respect, and unity among young individuals.

Guest of Honor Ranjeet Kalra commended NYKS for its efforts in bringing together youth from different states through the Youth Exchange Program. He noted that such initiatives serve as a vital bridge to overcoming cultural gaps and regional disconnect. AijazQaisar, Joint Director, Tourism, also lauded the participation of youth from Haryana, emphasizing that such initiatives significantly contribute to national integration.

Dr.Javaid Rahi remarked that language has no barriers and pointed out the striking similarities between the Gojri and Haryanvi languages. With this, the Interstate Youth Exchange Program 2025 successfully concluded, leaving participants with unforgettable experiences and a renewed sense of unity and collaboration.

The five-day program was organized under the supervision of Nitin Hangloo, District Youth Officer (DYO), with academic support from Dr.Nitan Sharma, Assistant Professor, Law School, University of Jammu. The Valedictory Ceremony was seamlessly coordinated by a dedicated team of volunteers—Rakshant Balotra, Rahul Attri, Divyansh, and Sahaj, under the supervision of Anmol Bajaj, APA NYKS Jammu.

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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