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

RAJOURI: The historic Bhairav Yatra of Rajouri has been included in the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage of India, marking a significant milestone in preservation and promotion of the district's cultural and spiritual legacy.

The proposal for inclusion of the centuries-old Yatra was conceptualised, documented and submitted by the District Administration Rajouri under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner Rajouri Abhishek Sharma, with the objective of securing national recognition for the tradition.

The proposal was pursued with the Department of Culture, Jammu & Kashmir and received guidance and support from Secretary Culture Department J&K Brij Mohan Sharma, whose coordination with institutions concerned facilitated its consideration at the national level.

Following evaluation and recommendations of the Provisional Committee constituted for updating the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage of India, the proposal was approved for inclusion.

The recognition acknowledges the cultural, spiritual and social significance of the Bhairav Yatra, its association with the faith and identity of the people of Rajouri and the efforts of generations of devotees and local communities in preserving the tradition.

Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma described the development as a significant achievement, saying the inclusion of the Bhairav Yatra in the National Inventory is a tribute to generations of devotees and communities who have kept the tradition alive.

"This recognition gives national visibility to an integral part of Rajouri's cultural identity. The District Administration remains committed to the systematic documentation, safeguarding and promotion of our invaluable cultural heritage," he said.

The Deputy Commissioner expressed gratitude to Secretary Culture Department J&K Brij Mohan Sharma for his guidance, support and coordination throughout the process. He also appreciated the contributions of the Bhairav Yatra Committee, devotees, cultural practitioners, researchers, officials and other stakeholders associated with documenting and preserving the Yatra.

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 👇