In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
  • College achieves major milestone with 3 problem statements selected nationally

KATHUA: Government Degree College Hiranagar has registered a proud achievement as its Principal and faculty members have been nominated by the Higher Education Department, Jammu & Kashmir to serve as Jury/Evaluators for the Smart India Hackathon (SIH) 2025 Grand Finale, scheduled for 8 and 9 December 2025 at Vardhaman College of Engineering Hyderabad.

Smart India Hackathon, a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell under AICTE, is among the country’s most prestigious platforms encouraging innovation and problem-solving among students.

The nomination of GDC Hiranagar’s academic team marks a significant moment for the institution, underscoring its growing contribution to national innovation forums. The College Principal, Dr. Pragya Khanna has been selected as the Team Coordinator, accompanied by experienced faculty members from the institution. Their participation showcases the academic strength, research culture and forward-looking vision nurtured within the institution.

Adding to the sense of pride, three of the five problem statements selected from Jammu & Kashmir for the SIH Grand Finale have been proposed by GDC Hiranagar.  This accomplishment highlights the college’s emphasis on encouraging creative thinking, developing technological solutions and promoting an innovation-driven academic environment. It also positions the institution as one of the leading contributors from the UT of J&K to national-level problem-solving initiatives.

During the Grand Finale, the nominated faculty members from GDC Hiranagar will evaluate innovative solutions presented by student teams from diverse regions of the country.  The evaluation process spans crucial domains including Smart Education, NEP-aligned automation, digital mental health support systems and technologies that enhance collaboration between academia and industry. 

Their participation not only contributes to a national innovation ecosystem but also brings visibility and recognition to the college’s academic excellence. This national representation is expected to further motivate students of GDC Hiranagar, enhance the institution’s academic profile and reinforce its role in shaping future-ready minds. The college continues to embody a progressive approach to education, emerging as a key contributor to the nation’s evolving innovation landscape.

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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