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

JAMMU/SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) successfully concluded the fifth and sixth batch of Management Development Programmes (MDPs) across 20 districts of the Union Territory under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) scheme. The scheme is being funded by the Union Ministry for MSME and implemented by the Industries and Commerce Department, Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

The six-day intensive MDPs,  were held simultaneously in Anantnag, Bandipora, Baramulla, Budgam, Doda, Ganderbal, Jammu, Kishtwar, Kulgam, Kupwara, Kathua, Pulwama, Shopian, Srinagar, Samba, Rajouri, Reasi, Poonch, Ramban and Udhampur. A total of 474 aspiring and existing entrepreneurs successfully completed the 30-hour structured training programme, which was comprised of expert interactions and field exposure visits. Notably, 452 women entrepreneurs participated in the batch, marking a significant stride towards gender inclusivity in the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The programmes were conducted by the respective District Centres of JKEDI under the overall supervision of the Director, JKEDI.

The MDPs were designed to enhance the managerial, financial and strategic competencies of participants, enabling them to scale up their enterprises, improve competitiveness and develop sustainable business models. The initiative aligns with the broader objectives of the RAMP programme, which seeks to strengthen and modernise the MSME ecosystem across the country.

The carefully curated curriculum, developed by subject matter experts, covered key areas including business planning, marketing strategies, use of digital tools, financial literacy, statutory compliance, innovation and leadership development. The training also featured mentorship sessions, case studies, interactive discussions and hands-on workshops to provide the participants with practical, real-world business insights.

Sector-specific sessions formed an important component of the MDPs, with experts from the District Industries Centres (DICs) and the Labour and Employment Department interacting with the participants to share domain-specific guidance. In addition, field visits to successful enterprises were organised to provide firsthand exposure to operational best practices.

The programmes were regularly monitored by the designated Range and Reviewing Officers, who interacted with participants to assess training quality and gather feedback, ensuring effective implementation and impact.

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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