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

AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) hosted the concluding ceremony of the Viksit Bharat @2047 Yuva Connect Program, a nationwide youth engagement initiative, with the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir and Chancellor of IUST, Shri Manoj Sinha, presiding over the event.

The valedictory function witnessed active participation from students, faculty members, and administrative officials, and featured a series of vibrant sessions including a presentation on the Viksit Bharat@2047 vision in the context of Viksit IUST@2047, an engaging Yuva Samvad (youth dialogue), and the felicitation of winners of various pre-events held under the banner of the program.

In his address, the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor commended IUST’s commitment to national progress through academic innovation, skill development, and youth empowerment. He appreciated the university’s efforts in embedding the spirit of Viksit Bharat into its institutional planning nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship among the youth. Shri Shantmanu, Additional   Chief Secretary, stressed on the participation of youth in the development of the nation and congratulated IUST for being in the vanguard of youth driven progress.

In his presentation, Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakil A Romshoo, elaborated on the university's strategic vision document titled Viksit IUST@2047, outlining goals aligned with the national development roadmap. He remarked, that the aspirations of Viksit Bharat@2047 resonate deeply with IUST's vision of fostering innovation, inclusion, and sustainability. He thanked the government for its generous support for pioneering such initiatives.

The event also featured the release of a special edition of the university newsletter Times Echo focused on the National Education Policy 2020, as well as the unveiling of department Institutional Development Plans (IDPs) for the School of Engineering & Technology and the School of Humanities & Social Sciences. A video highlighting the range of pre-event activities and a special screening titled Sardar@150 were also presented during the ceremony.

The program commenced with a welcome address by Prof. A. H. Moon, Dean Academic Affairs, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. A. W. Makhdoomi, Registrar, IUST.

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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