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

JAMMU: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu, to foster interdisciplinary research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and regional development. This strategic partnership brings together CSIR-IIIM’s scientific leadership in natural product discovery, biotechnology, and drug development, and IIM Jammu’s strengths in management education, business research, and innovation-led governance.

The MoU was formally signed by Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, and Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director, CSIR-IIIM, in the presence of senior faculty members and officials from both institutions. The agreement establishes a broad framework for collaboration, aligningIIM Jammu’s capabilities in strategic management, public policy, executive education, and entrepreneurship and CSIR-IIIM’s expertise in scientific research, integrative medicine, and translational technologies with. Built on shared institutional values and a commitment to interdisciplinary excellence, the collaboration seeks to address complex societal challenges through a synthesis of technical innovation and managerial acumen.

The partnership is designed to facilitate joint research projects and interdisciplinary studies, with a particular focus on innovation management and the commercialization of scientific outcomes into scalable, market-ready solutions—especially in the domain of herbal and natural products. The MoU envisions academic and student exchanges, faculty and scientist mobility for collaborative engagement, and joint organization of seminars, conferences, workshops, and policy roundtables to enhance knowledge dissemination.

Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, remarked that the MoU represents a significant step in bridging the gap between science and management. He noted that this collaboration between two premier institutions will not only drive innovation but also generate sustainable, socially relevant outcomes that will contribute to the development of the Jammu and Kashmir region and beyond.

Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director, CSIR-IIIM, highlighted the importance of the partnership, statingthat this MoU marks a pivotal milestone in bridging scientific innovation with managementacumen. It will drive advancements in areas like pharma commercialization, sustainable agro-technologies, and biotech entrepreneurship, ultimately translating discoveries into societalbenefits.

Also present on the occasion were Prof. Rajesh Sikka, Faculty, IIM Jammu, Er. Abdul Rahim, Chief Scientist &Head, RMBD& IST; Dr. Saurabh Saran, Principal Scientist; Dr. Suphla Gupta, Senior PrincipalScientist; and Dr. Love Sharma, Scientist. CSIR-IIIM, Jammu;and Cmdr. Kesavan Baskkaran, Chief Administrative Officer, IIM Jammu. The MoU reflects a strong commitment to region-specific projects focusing on the bioeconomy, rural entrepreneurship, and sustainable healthcare through integrative approaches. An Advisory Board comprising the Directors of both institutions will monitor the collaboration’s progress and provide strategic direction to ensure alignment with shared objectives.

This strategic alliance underscores the commitment of IIM Jammu and CSIR-IIIM to advancing India’s innovation and knowledge economy, aligning with national priorities such as health innovation, startup incubation, and evidence-based policy development. The partnership reflects a collective vision that supports the broader goals of Viksit Bharat and positions both institutions at the forefront of interdisciplinary and impactful research.

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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