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

JAMMU: With a view  towards strengthening the Jammu & Kashmir’s renewable energy ecosystem, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, ARI & Trainings,  Satish Sharma, today inaugurated the 143 KW Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar Power Plant installed at the JK Cable Car Corporation, Bahu Jammu.

The inauguration-cum-awareness programme was organized by the Jammu & Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JAKEDA) under the aegis of Science & Technology Department. The event was attended by MLA Vikram Randhawa, CEO JAKEDA Dr P.R.Dhar, Additional CEO JAKEGA senior officials from JAKEDA, Science & Technology Department, officers of JK Cable Car Corporation, engineers, project staff and local stakeholders.

The newly commissioned 143 KW rooftop solar plant is part of the UT’s broader agenda to adopt renewable energy technologies across the government buildings and public infrastructure. Having an Installed Capacity of 143 KW, the project costs  ₹74.55 lakh and will generate 1.83 lakh units annually saving around  ₹15 lakh through reduced electricity expenditure. It will also ensure  reduction of 1.33 lakh kilograms of CO₂ emissions annually and has a System Life Expectancy of 25 years or more.

Speaking at the event, Satish Sharma said that the inauguration of this solar project marks a significant milestone in Jammu & Kashmir's  march towards energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. He emphasized that the government is focused on accelerating the transition from conventional, fossil-fuel-based power sources to non-polluting renewable alternatives.

The Minister added that the solar plant at JK Cable Car Corporation will serve as a demonstration model for other departments, showcasing how rooftop solar installations can drastically reduce operational costs, reduce carbon footprints and improve energy self-reliance.

Satish Sharma further highlighted the vision of the government to ensure large-scale adoption of rooftop solar systems and expansion of decentralized renewable energy solutions. This will strengthening the capacity of government institutions to reduce energy dependency, facilitating a cleaner and greener development trajectory for Jammu & Kashmir, he added.

The Minister also reviewed the operational readiness of the plant, interacted with the engineers and technical teams. He stressed the importance of periodic monitoring, system upkeep and skill enhancement for ensuring long-term efficiency.

Satish Sharma directed the JAKEDA and the Science & Technology Department to identify more government buildings for immediate rooftop solar installation besides ensuring  timely completion of ongoing solar projects. He also called for strengthening  awareness programmes for the public and institutional users and promote clean energy solutions across urban and rural pockets of Jammu and Kashmir.

The project will reduce approximately 1.33 lakh kg of CO₂ emissions annually, contributing significantly to the Jammu and Kashmir’s climate commitments and national renewable energy targets. This aligns with India’s larger goals under the National Solar Mission and its pledge to expand non-fossil fuels.

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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