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

AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) has been awarded the “Best Institution (other than school or college)” category of the 6th National Water Awards, announced by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India.  With this award, IUST joins a select group of national institutions recognised for translating the vision of “Water Secure India” into action on the ground. The award ceremony is scheduled for 18 November 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, where the President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu will confer the awards.

The jury appreciated the IUST’s holistic, science-based model for water conservation and environmental sustainability which integrates rooftop rain-water harvesting, mountain runoff (from wastoorvan hills) through check-dams and recharge pits, and a 100 KLD sewage-treatment plant that treats campus wastewater and supplies it for campus irrigation. IUST has also afforested hilly terrain, developed biodiversity and medicinal-plant parks, and engaged a large number of participants through environmental-awareness programmes. Innovatively, IUST has converted high-velocity mountain runoff into groundwater using geophysically-guided recharge structures, and rolled out an efficient water conservation system.

Prof. Shakil Romshoo, Vice Chancellor of IUST, stated that by integrating large-scale infrastructure with cutting-edge recharge technology and active community participation, the University has significantly strengthened its groundwater resources, mitigated flash flood risks arising from the rapid runoff of the Wastoorvan hills, and enhanced campus ecology, setting a new benchmark for institutional water stewardship in mountainous regions. He also congratulated the entire university community whose dedicated efforts made this achievement possible.

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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