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

SRINAGAR/NEW DELHI: The Industries & Commerce Department extended heartiest congratulations to two outstanding craftsmen from Jammu and Kashmir, who were today honoured with the prestigious National Awards by the President of India, Draupadi Murmu at a grand ceremony, organized by the Ministry of Textiles at New Delhi.

The Department also extended felicitations to two other craftsmen who were honoured with Certificates of Excellence for their contribution in their respective crafts during the function today.

In a press release issued here today, a spokesman of the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, stated that this honour is a fitting tribute to the extraordinary skill, lifelong dedication and invaluable contribution of Manzoor Ahmad Khan, renowned carpet weaver from Rainawari, Khawaja Nazir Ali, famous for Sozni embroidery from Alamgiri Bazaar, Srinagar,  who were conferred with National Awards and Mashkoora Hameed from Budgam (Sozni embroidery) and Mir Arshad Hussain from Srinagar (papier mache), who were honoured with Certificate of Excellence, towards preserving and promoting the rich craft heritage of Jammu & Kashmir.

“The department is filled with immense pride and joy as 02 master craftsmen have been conferred with one of the highest national recognition and two more honoured with Certificate of Excellence, in the field of handicrafts and handlooms by the President of India,” he said.

The Spokesman further stated said their exquisite craftsmanship has not only kept our centuries-old traditions alive but has also earned global admiration. “They have become role models for thousands of artisans across J&K and were brought into the limelight during the recently held Know Your Artisan campaign by the department,” he said, adding the entire artisan community celebrates this historic moment with great pride.

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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