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

DODA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the people of Doda in the Sarazi language during a campaign rally today, asking, "Tu Sab Ki'yai Ch'eth, Ho'ro Ki'yu Haal Chaal Cho," which translates to "You all are fine? How are you all?" This rally marked the Prime Minister’s first ahead of the assembly elections in Jammu & Kashmir, scheduled for September 18. 

While Modi’s primary focus was on campaigning in support of local candidates, his brief use of Sarazi was part of his routine practice of connecting with the local populace by greeting them in regional languages. However, the speech itself did not delve into the linguistic or cultural heritage of the region. 

Maryam Begum, chairperson of the Chenab Times Foundation (CTF), a registered trust dedicated to promoting art, culture, and addressing public grievances, highlighted the importance of Sarazi and Bhaderwahi languages in the Chenab Valley. She stressed that while the Prime Minister's gesture was appreciated, it is essential for the government to take concrete steps to preserve and promote these languages, which, along with Chenabi Kashmiri, form the cultural identity of the region. 

"Sarazi and Bhaderwahi are more than just means of communication; they are integral to the history and traditions of the Chenab Valley. We need more than symbolic gestures. These languages should be part of the educational curriculum and be promoted in media and public life," Maryam Begum stated. 

The Chenab Times Foundation has long advocated for greater recognition of local languages, urging the government to take meaningful action to ensure their survival and growth. While PM Modi's greeting in Sarazi was a positive gesture, the Foundation hopes for more substantial efforts to preserve the rich linguistic heritage of the region.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇