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

AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), through its Centre for Good Governance and Policy Analysis (CGGPA), has developed a comprehensive Policy Brief on the Prevention, Treatment and Rehabilitation of Substance Use in Jammu & Kashmir, reaffirming the University's commitment to addressing one of the region's most pressing social and public health challenges. The policy was released by the Honourable Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha during the inaugural session of the 4 days International Conference on Nature Based Solutions on August 3, 2026.

Recognising that every young person lost to substance use represents a dream interrupted, a family under strain, and a loss to society, the Policy Brief advocates a coordinated, evidence-based and long-term institutional response. The Policy Brief emerged from the two-day workshop, "Drug-Free Society: A Call for Collective Action," organised by IUST as part of the 100-Day Nasha Mukt Campaign launched under the leadership of the Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha.

The workshop brought together administrators, healthcare professionals, law enforcement agencies, educators, researchers, civil society organisations and youth representatives. While representing diverse sectors, participants shared a common understanding that addressing substance use requires collective action and sustained institutional collaboration.

Drawing upon these deliberations, the Policy Brief presents a practical framework to strengthen existing efforts by improving institutional coordination and integrating prevention, treatment and rehabilitation within a shared policy vision. Rather than proposing parallel structures, it seeks to reinforce ongoing initiatives through convergence, evidence-based planning and coordinated implementation.

The document emphasises that effective prevention begins long before addiction takes hold. It advocates strengthening families, educational institutions and communities while promoting meaningful youth engagement. It also underscores the importance of accessible treatment, compassionate care and sustained rehabilitation that enables individuals to reconnect with their families, education, livelihoods and society with dignity.

The Policy Brief recommends a coordinated institutional framework involving Government departments, educational institutions, healthcare systems, local self-government institutions, law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations and community groups. It further proposes measures to strengthen implementation through capacity building, research, monitoring, sustainable financing and inter-departmental convergence.

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 👇