KATRA: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), Katra organized a National Workshop on Advanced Materials for Sustainable Development under the DREAMS Project of the ANRF–PAIR program in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology Ropar and other partner (spoke) institutions.

The workshop was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of SMVDU, Prof. Pragati Kumar, who emphasized the importance of collaborative research initiatives and interdisciplinary engagement among leading academic institutions. He congratulated the organizing team and appreciated the efforts of the PAIR team of SMVDU, including the Principal Investigator and Co-Principal Investigators, for successfully organizing the event.

The program commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Sanjeev Anand, who highlighted the objectives of the workshop and the significance of the DREAMS Project in strengthening collaborative research under the PAIR framework.

Dr. A. K. Das, Dean Research & Development at SMVDU, also addressed the gathering and spoke about the importance of research collaborations and innovation in advanced materials.The workshop aimed to bring together researchers, faculty members, and students to deliberate on emerging developments in advanced materials with a focus on sustainability.

The major themes of the workshop included smart and functional materials, green and sustainable materials, energy and environmental materials, circular economy in materials engineering, and additive manufacturing.Technical sessions during the workshop were conducted by distinguished experts including Dr. V. Raj Kumar, Assistant Professor at Indian Institute of Technology Jammu; Dr. Mir Irfan Ul Haq, Associate Professor at SMVDU; and Dr. R. K. Sharma, Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Director – International Collaborations at Manipal University Jaipur.

The experts delivered insightful talks and engaged participants in discussions on emerging trends and applications in advanced materials research.The workshop witnessed active participation from researchers and students representing institutions such as Indian Institute of Technology Ropar, Kurukshetra University, Government College of Engineering and Technology Jammu, and Indian Institute of Technology Jammu, fostering vibrant academic interaction and knowledge exchange.

Pertinently, the workshop was organized under the PAIR (Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research) program funded by Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), under which SMVDU has secured a research grant of ₹10.5 crore to strengthen collaborative research and innovation in advanced materials and related domains.The project is being implemented at SMVDU with Dr. Ankush Raina serving as the Principal Investigator.

The Co-Principal Investigators from SMVDU include Dr. Sanjeev Anand, Dr. Yatheshth Anand, Dr. V. V. Tyagi, Dr. Mir Irfan Ul Haq, Dr. Ram Prakash, Dr. Pankaj Biswas, and Dr. Indu Bhushan.The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Ankush Raina, Principal Investigator of the project, who expressed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor, invited speakers, collaborating institutions, and participants for their valuable contributions in making the workshop a success.

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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