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

JAMMU: To mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the University of Jammu today organized a Free Eye Check-up Camp at the University Health Centre. The camp was jointly conducted by the Disability Initiatives & Health Centre, University of Jammu, in collaboration with Sharp Sight Eye Hospital, Jammu.

The event was inaugurated by the Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies, JU who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In her address, she appreciated the efforts of the University in prioritizing accessible and inclusive health services. She emphasized that initiatives like these reflect the University’s commitment towards promoting the wellbeing of all stakeholders—students, faculty, staff, scholars—and especially persons with disabilities.

Prof. Yashpal Sharma, Convener, Health Centre Advisory Committee, graced the event as the Guest of Honour. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of perseverance and resilience among persons with disabilities. Referring to celebrated para-sportspersons such as Sheetal Devi, he underscored how inclusive opportunities, encouragement, and supportive ecosystems empower individuals to achieve excellence and inspire society.

Speaking on the initiative, Prof. Sarika Manhas Coordinator, Disability Initiatives, JU expressed sincere appreciation for the enthusiastic participation of the university community. She noted that such health camps are not just service initiatives but meaningful steps toward creating a campus where accessibility, dignity, and inclusion are embedded in everyday practice. She emphasized that the Disability Initiatives are committed to strengthening support systems, building awareness, and ensuring that the needs of persons with disabilities remain central to the University’s policy and planning efforts.

Dr. Bharat Bhushan Chief Medical Officer, University Health Centre, highlighted that periodic health initiatives play a crucial role in early detection of eye-related issues, contributing to overall wellbeing and academic productivity.

The camp offered free vision screening, consultation, and referral services by a team of expert ophthalmologists from Sharp Sight Eye Hospital. Around 150 faculty members, officers, non-teaching staff, scholars, and students including those with disabilities availed the services.

Several distinguished faculty members were also present, including Prof. Garima Gupta, Head, Department of Journalism and Media Studies; Prof. Sunita Sharma, Head, Department of Economics; Prof. Deepika Salathia, Head, Department of Environmental Sciences; Prof. Piyush Malviya; Prof. Shallu Sehgal, Dr. Pritam Singh, Associate Dean Students Welfare; Dr. Inderjeet; Dr. Harjeet Singh; Dr. Neeraj Sharma, and Sh. Vijay Bhat, President Non Gazetted employee union, who appreciated the initiative and interacted with participants during the camp.

The team of research scholars from the Department of Home Science (Human Development)- Meghna Sharma, Purvi Verma, Razia Farooq, Sonia Sharma, Sanmeet Kaur, and Sunaina Sharma coordinated the entire eye camp. 

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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