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

DIU: Shahid Hilal of Silat Macan Kumbang, Ellahi Bagh Stadium, Srinagar, delivered a stellar performance by winning the gold medal in the 60–65 kg weight category at the 2nd Edition of the Khelo India Beach Games (KIBG) 2026, currently underway in the Union Territory of Diu from January 5 to January 11.

The Khelo India Beach Games 2026 are being organised by the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, under the technical supervision of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the concerned National Sports Federations.

Expressing his gratitude after the victory, Shahid Hilal said,“I am extremely thankful to the India Pencak Silat Federation for providing me three months of international coaching under Suhud Indratno, which helped me strengthen my technical skills. I am also grateful to the Chief Coach of India, Irfan Aziz, whose guidance and focused preparation for the Beach Games played a vital role in helping me secure this gold medal.”

Sharing his experience at the national event, he added,“Competing at the Khelo India Beach Games has been a wonderful experience. Pencak Silat is growing rapidly across India, and it is encouraging to see so many positive stories emerging from the sport.”

Shahid Hilal dedicated his achievement to his family, particularly his parents, saying,“My parents have supported me at every step of my journey. This medal belongs to them as much as it belongs to me.”

Shahid’s gold medal victory in the 60–65 kg category marks a significant achievement for Kashmir’s sporting fraternity and highlights the steady rise of Pencak Silat as a competitive sport in India.

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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