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

AWANTIPORA: The School of Sciences, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), held its 5th meeting of the Board of Research Studies (BoRS) to discuss key academic and research matters and to deliberate on strategies aimed at strengthening the research environment of the University.

The meeting was presided over by Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST, and attended by senior faculty members and leading academic experts from reputed institutions. The program was coordinated by Dr. Aabid Hussain Shalla, Dean Research, who at the onset highlighted the major research initiatives and achievements of the University, with a particular emphasis on progress within the School of Sciences.

The meeting was attended by experts and academic leaders including Prof. A. H. Moon (Dean Academic Affairs, IUST), Prof. Kowsar Majid (Professor, Department of Chemistry, NIT Srinagar), Prof. Neyaz Ahmad (Professor, Department of Mathematics, NIT Srinagar), Prof. Anwar Hassan (Professor, Department of Statistics, University of Kashmir), Prof. Shazia Manzoor (Professor, Department of Social Work, University of Kashmir), and Prof. Seemin Rubab (Professor, Department of Physics, NIT Srinagar). Senior administrators and faculty from IUST including Dr. Rumaan Bashir (Controller of Examinations, IUST), Dr. Farooq Hussain Bhat (I/C Dean, School of Sciences), Dr. Ruheela Hassan (I/C Dean Outreach), and heads of all departments and research centres under the school of Sciences.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Romshoo reiterated the University’s commitment to creating an inclusive, and globally competitive research culture, and stressed the significance of research in institutional development and community advancement. The Board reviewed research programs across disciplines, evaluated research proposals and synopsis submissions, and reviewed progress reports of ongoing research scholars.

Several important decisions were adopted to enrich the research ecosystem of the University. These included enhancing support structures and laboratory facilities, promoting increased collaboration across departments, and strengthening adherence to national-level research and ethical standards. The meeting also discussed the importance of interdisciplinary research and emphasized the need to promote research for societal benefit, aimed at addressing pressing regional and national challenges through scientific inquiry and innovation.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇