JAMMU: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today announced that Kala Kendra will be developed as a premier Centre for Performing and Visual Arts in Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized the government's commitment towards prioritizing culture as a vital component of identity. He highlighted the formulation of a well-defined Cultural Policy for Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing an art exhibition at Kala Kendra, Jammu, organized as part of the Tawi Festival-2025 by the Kala Kendra Society, Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages, and Amar Mahal Museum and Library, Jammu, the Chief Secretary revealed that an award scheme has been finalized to encourage and recognize the versatile artists, writers and performers from the region.

The event witnessed an esteemed panel comprising Sanjeev Verma, Commissioner Secretary, Culture and Social Welfare; Dr. Javaid Rahi, Secretary, Kala Kendra; K.K. Siddha, Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums; Dr. Lalit Gupta, eminent art historian and Colonel (Retd.) Mitra, Joint Director, Amar Mahal Museum and Library.

Speaking on the occasion, Sanjeev Verma highlighted that the Department of Culture is focusing on preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. He assured that the government will launch various initiatives and schemes to support and enhance the cultural activities in the Union Territory.

Dr. Javaid Rahi, in his address, stated that the main objective of the art exhibition was to bring together paintings, sculptures and other artistic expressions from 100 artists from across Jammu and Kashmir. He also noted that a large collection from the academy’s repository was put on display for public appreciation.

The exhibition was graced by renowned artists including Gokal Dembi, Suman Gupta, Vinod Chopra, Sarishti Sehni, K.K. Gandhi, Bheshambar Mehta, Milan Sharma, Rakesh Sharma, O.P. Sharma, Sanjeev Rana, Sangeeta, among others. The program was conducted by Rachita Gupta, an art educator from IMFA while Vote of Thanks was presented by Colonel (Retd.) Mitra.

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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