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

JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission, (JKRLM) celebrated International Women's Day today with great enthusiasm, marking a significant step towards the empowerment of women in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. In a virtual mode, the Mission Director Dr Shubhra Sharma connected with all Block Mission Management Units (BMMUs) of both divisions. She conveyed that loan amounting to Rs 100 crore has been disbursed to Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs), further promoting their economic independence and growth.

Additional Mission Director JKRLM Manpreet Kaur; State Project Managers ,District/Block Programme Managers, MIS Assistants and women from several Self Help Groups (SHGs) across both the divisions participated in the event.

In her address, Mission Director JKRLM, Dr. Shubhra Sharma emphasized the significance of celebrating International Women’s Day. She commended the contributions and resilience of the women associated with the Mission and highlighted the need for initiatives aimed at eliminating gender disparity to create a more equitable world. Dr. Sharma further advised women to overcome any hesitations in assuming higher responsibilities, asserting that they are second to none in their abilities.

She said that women were historically considered meek and docile, but despite the challenges, they have proved their mettle in all walks of life. “To build a society with a strong moral and ethical foundation, it is essential to empower women to make decisions about their own lives. This empowerment begins with women taking control of their identities and individualities” the Mission Director further added.

Emphasising that women’s health plays a crucial role in this process, she said a healthy woman is better equipped to lead, care for her family, and contribute meaningfully to society. “It is important for women to step into leadership roles, as their perspectives and contributions are essential for building a more equitable and progressive society.” she added.

Earlier, Additional Mission Director JKRLM, Manpreet Kaur delivered the inaugural address, emphasizing the crucial role of women in society. She affirmed that economic independence is a key step toward the empowerment of women and reiterated the government's commitment to supporting women in all aspects of life. As part of the program, a felicitation ceremony was held to honor several "Lakhpati Didis" for their unflinching efforts and great achievements.  The event culminated with a vote of thanks delivered by State Programme  Manager ( M&E ) Annisa Nabi.

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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