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

KATHUA: Kathua Blasters and Kathua Admin XI registered impressive victories in their respective group stage matches of the ongoing Kathua Cricket League played at the Sports Ground, Government Degree College (Boys), Kathua. The tournament is being organised by the District Administration Kathua under the theme "Youth for Sports, Youth Against Drugs."

In the morning fixture, Kathua Blasters outclassed Saab Ji XI by 87 runs after posting a commanding total of 200/5 in the allotted 20 overs. Nikhil Sharma led the batting with a brilliant 70 off 42 balls, while Karan scored 44 off 27 balls and Nishank Mahajan added 37. Ram (14), Aditya Rajput (10*), Shivam Singh (10*) and Anubhav Andotra (6*) made valuable contributions towards the end.

For Saab Ji XI, Munish Sharma claimed two wickets, while Sanjay Saab, Abhi Sharma and Neeraj Bhai picked up one wicket each. Chasing the target, Saab Ji XI were restricted to 113/7 in their 20 overs despite an unbeaten 35 by Kamal Kumar. Anuj Singh and Munish Sharma contributed 16 runs each, but the side failed to build meaningful partnerships.

Kathua Blasters' bowlers delivered a disciplined performance, with Anubhav Andotra returning exceptional figures of 4/11, including a maiden over. Karan claimed 2/16, while Sahil took one wicket to help his team secure a comprehensive victory. In the evening group stage encounter, Kathua Admin XI defeated Gurha Mundian Giants by four wickets in a closely contested match.

Batting first, Gurha Mundian Giants were bowled out for 107 runs in 17.2 overs. Deepak Dogra top-scored with 27 runs, while Arun Sharma made 15 and Vikas Sharma remained unbeaten on 14. For Kathua Admin XI, Sunil starred with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for 10 runs in 4 overs, while Sourav Sharma bagged two wickets. Sunil Singh, Vishal Khajuria and Akash claimed one wicket each.

In reply, Kathua Admin XI chased down the target, scoring 108/6 in 16.5 overs. Prince Jasrotia top-scored with 29 runs, Ajay Dev contributed 25, while Mustaq remained unbeaten on 15. Simranjit Singh struck the winning runs, remaining unbeaten on 6.

For Gurha Mundian Giants, Deepak Dogra and Robin Singh took two wickets each, while Sahil Sharma claimed one. With these victories, Kathua Blasters and Kathua Admin XI strengthened their positions in the league, as the Kathua Cricket League continues to promote sportsmanship, fitness and a drug-free lifestyle among the youth of the 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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