AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) will host a four-day international conference on ‘Nature-based Solutions for Enhanced Climate Resilience and Livelihoods in the Himalayas’ from August 3 to 6.

The conference will be inaugurated on August 3 by the Honourable Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, as Chief Guest. The Honourable Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Justice Sanjeev Kumar, will grace the inaugural session as Guest of Honour.

The international event will bring together policymakers, scientists, academicians, development practitioners, financial institutions, and businesses and civil-society representatives to examine how nature-based solutions can strengthen climate resilience, support livelihoods and contribute to sustainable economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir and wider Himalayan region.

The programme focuses on climate-resilient Jhelum River Basin and Himalayas, wetland restoration, climate-smart forestry, sustainable agriculture and horticulture, urban resilience, human well-being, digital technology-enabled green enterprises, and climate finance.

Vice Chancellor IUST, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, said, Jammu and Kashmir’s forests, rivers, wetlands and agricultural landscapes should be recognised as essential natural infrastructure that supports water security, disaster reduction, livelihoods and economic development. Conference Convener, Prof. Javed Hussain Mir, remarked that the conference would move the nature-based solutions discussion beyond environmental conservation.

A major highlight of the conference will be the High-Level Policy Dialogue on ‘Leveraging Nature-based Solutions for Fiscal Diversification and Resilience in Jammu and Kashmir,’ scheduled for August 6 at Amar Singh Club, Srinagar. Chaired by Additional Chief Secretary, Shri Shailendra Kumar (IAS), the senior policymakers, planners, academics, businesses and civil society will consider priority policies and investments for enhancing Jammu and Kashmir’s climate, and fiscal and economic resilience.

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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