JAMMU: North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), Patiala (Punjab) in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL), today organised a National Cultural cum Music Programme titled “Lok Rang Utsav 2026” at R.S. Pura Jammu.

The programme showcased the rich and vibrant cultural diversity of the country through captivating folk performances. The participating artists included Arvind Yadav & Party (Madhya Pradesh), Ajay Kashyap & Party (Haryana), Mehboob Khan & Party (Rajasthan), Vanaraj & Party (Gujarat), T.R. Premi & Party, and Ved Prakash & Party. The artists beautifully presented diverse cultural hues and enthralled the audience. Performers from outside the region played a remarkable role in making the event a grand success.

Chairman, J&K Religious, Tourism, Culture & Heritage Rajinder Bitu graced the occasion as the chief guest. He appreciated the performances of all artists and lauded the efforts of JKAACL and NZCC. He emphasized that such programmes should be organised more frequently to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the nation.

Secretary, JKAACL Harvinder Kour; Assistant Director, NZCC Patiala Ravinder Sharma and Additional Secretary JKAACL Lal Chand were also present on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, Ravinder Sharma applauded the Academy’s efforts in organising the national-level programme in collaboration with NZCC.

Addressing the gathering, Harvinder Kour appreciated both NZCC and JKAACL for organising this series of programmes, which has commenced from R.S. Pura and will culminate at Paddar. She stated that JKAACL is committed to the promotion and preservation of the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. Emphasizing the spirit of unity in diversity, she highlighted that such platforms bring together artists from different states, languages, and traditions, fostering mutual respect and national integration.

Additional Secretary Lal Chand highlighted the ongoing cultural initiatives being undertaken by JKAACL in the Jammu region. The programme was ably conducted by Sanjiv Shaad whereas the vote of thanks was presented by Editor, Punjabi Popinder Singh Paras.

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