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

JAMMU: LEAD – LJK Economic Growth and Development Dialogue today released the Third Edition of its Annual Smarika at a ceremony held at Amar Singh Club, Jammu. The publication reflects LEAD's continued commitment to promoting inclusive economic growth, entrepreneurship, innovation, policy dialogue and sustainable development across the Union Territories of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.

The Smarika was formally released by the Chief Guest, Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu and the Guest of Honour, Arun Kumar Manhas, Director, Industries & Commerce, Jammu in the presence of LEAD Board Members, Executive Members and prominent business identities.

The third edition highlights LEAD's initiatives and achievements over the past year, including programmes focused on entrepreneurship development, startup promotion, rural livelihoods, agriculture, tourism, skill development, policy research, youth engagement, environmental sustainability and collaborative partnerships with government institutions, academic bodies, industry and civil society organisations.

Speaking on the occasion, LEAD Convenor Harinder Gupta reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to promoting evidence-based policy research, strengthening local enterprises, supporting startups, encouraging youth leadership and facilitating sustainable economic opportunities across the region.

Addressing the gathering, Arun Kumar Manhas, Director, Industries & Commerce, Jammu congratulated the LEAD team and appreciated the organisation's efforts, stating that the Industries & Commerce Department continues to support LEAD's initiatives in promoting entrepreneurship and economic development.

Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu commended LEAD for its remarkable contribution to regional development. He said he has been associated with LEAD’s initiatives from the beginning. He particularly appreciated Mahotsav – Jammu Kashmir Ladakh, describing it as one of Jammu's most significant public events that has successfully showcased the region's entrepreneurship, culture, tourism, handicrafts, agriculture, cuisine and local enterprises.

LEAD Board Member Sanjeev Sharma noted that the Annual Smarika serves not only as a record of LEAD's initiatives but also as a valuable knowledge resource documenting best practices, success stories, research insights, and future development priorities. He thanked Hon’ble LG, Manoj Sinha for his cover message for this year's Smarika as he praised LEAD present work and his good wishes for LEAD’s future initiatives.

Delivering the vote of thanks, LEAD Board Member Raman Suri expressed his gratitude to the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour, distinguished guests, partners and participants for their support and presence at the event.

 The event was anchored by Vishal Abrol, Coordinator – Real Estate & Housing, LEAD, who conducted the proceedings and ensured the smooth flow of the programme. The event was attended by LEAD Board Members Ramesh Kumar Chibber, Kamal Kishore Sharma, Surinder Mohan Gupta, Rajesh Gupta, CA Rajeev Gupta, Vikram Gujral, Col. Ajat Shatroo Jamwal, Parveen Pargal along with Executive Officer Alankrit Mahajan, LEAD Executive Members, distinguished dignitaries, policymakers, academicians, entrepreneurs, industry representatives, civil society members and development professionals.

LEAD (LJK Economic Growth and Development Dialogue) is a development think tank dedicated to promoting inclusive economic growth, entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable development across the Union Territories of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. Through research, policy dialogue, capacity building and multi-stakeholder partnerships, LEAD works to strengthen local ecosystems and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for communities across the region.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇