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

JAMMU: The Jammu & Kashmir Skill Development Mission (JKSDM) has launched the UT level competitions under India Skills Competitions 2025-26, marking a major step towards promoting a strong skill development ecosystem across the Union Territory.

The first competition commenced today at the Institute of Technology, University of Kashmir for Kashmir division and Industrial Training Institute, Jammu for Jammu division. This year, the Mission received an overwhelming response with 1500 registrations from the enthusiastic youth from across J&K. After a rigorous screening process, 265 skilled candidates have been shortlisted to compete at the UT level in 28 diverse skill categories.

The winners of these events will advance to the regional level competitions, where they will represent the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. The competitions are being conducted at premier institutions across J&K including IIT Jammu, NIFT Srinagar, IHM Srinagar, Central University of Jammu, Government Medical College, Srinagar, NIT Srinagar and Government Polytechnic College, Jammu.

Speaking on the occasion, JKSDM officials highlighted that the initiative aims to empower the skilled youth of J&K, remove the stigma associated with blue-collar professions and glamourize skill-based careers in line with national objectives.

J&K has shown remarkable performance in recent years, securing 13 medals at the National Level India Skills Competitions 2023-24, including 3 Gold Medals. These Gold Medalists went on to represent India at the prestigious World Skills Competition 2024 in Lyon, France, bringing pride to the Union Territory. The India Skills Competitions serve as a platform to showcase talent, build confidence and connect youth with national and global opportunities in the skill sector.

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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