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

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (JKAACL) concluded its Hindi Pakhwara celebrations with a grand valedictory ceremony held today at Tagore Hall, Srinagar. The event highlighted JKAACL's sustained commitment towards promotion of Hindi and its role in celebrating linguistic diversity across the region. Principal Secretary, Culture, Suresh Kumar Gupta presided over the ceremony.

In his keynote address, Suresh Gupta lauded JKAACL’s pivotal role in promoting Hindi as a language of cultural unity and national pride. He stressed the importance of Hindi in uniting India’s diverse regions and appreciated the enthusiasm of participants, particularly the youth, who showcased their talents across various literary and cultural platforms.

As part of the valedictory program, Principal Secretary felicitated outstanding participants from various competitions organized during Hindi Pakhwara. The students from prestigious institutions like Tyndale Biscoe School, Mallinson School, Burn Hall School, and The Kashmir Valley School were awarded for their remarkable performances in events such as essay writing, poetry recitation and debates held as part of the Hindi Diwas celebrations.

In her welcome address, Secretary, JKAACL , Harvinder Kour emphasized the critical role of Hindi not only as a national language but as a bridge that fosters communal harmony and national integration. She expressed gratitude to the literary community for their dedication and active participation in making the Hindi Pakhwara programs a resounding success. She called upon the scholars and writers to continue their efforts to give Hindi its rightful place in India’s cultural landscape.

The event featured two scholarly papers presented by Dr. Mohammad Yaqoob and Toiba Alam, who highlighted the increasing relevance of Hindi in both academic and cultural arenas. Their presentations offered insightful perspectives on the role of Hindi in India’s multicultural framework and encouraged the audience to continue championing the language.

Another highlight of the day was the poetic symposium, which featured notable poets including Dr. Mudassir Bhat, Dr. Shabnam Showkat, Dr. Mukti Sharma, Dr. Sukhbir Kour, and Dr. Mohammad Yaqoob. Their passionate recitations of Hindi poetry captivated the audience, adding a layer of artistic expression to the day's proceedings and exemplifying the beauty and power of the language.

Concluding the event, Sanjeev Rana, Additional Secretary, JKAACL, presented vote of thanks. He emphasized JKAACL's commitment to continuing its efforts to promote Hindi and other regional languages of Jammu & Kashmir, ensuring that they remain integral to the cultural fabric of the region. The event was expertly hosted by Nasreen Ali Nidhi, while Dr. Abid Ahmad served as the Program Coordinator.

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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