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

SRINAGAR: The Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha today inaugurated Yatri Bhawan at Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple, Tulmulla, Ganderbal. After dedicating the facilities to the public, the Lieutenant Governor said that the new Yatri Bhawan will substantially improve the pilgrimage experience at Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple by providing safe, hygienic and comfortable accommodation facilities.

Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple at Tulmulla is one of the most revered shrines in Jammu Kashmir. Located approximately 25 km from Srinagar and 5 km from Ganderbal town, the shrine attracts a large number of devotees throughout the year, particularly during the annual Mela Kheer Bhawani and Jyeshtha Ashtami, when thousands of pilgrims, including members of the Kashmiri Pandit community, visit the temple. In 2023, several delegations met the Lieutenant Governor to request a Yatri Bhawan. Subsequently, Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj through Rural Engineering Wing (REW) designed the plan and the Lieutenant Governor laid the foundation stone in 2024.

"With Mata Kheer Bhawani's blessing, I had laid the foundation stone on Jyeshtha Ashtami in 2024. The project will enhance the capacity of the shrine to host pilgrims visiting from India and abroad. My goal has been to provide the Kashmiri Pandit community visiting the shrine with excellent facilities and a serene spiritual experience," the Lieutenant Governor said.

The facility constructed within the temple premises at a cost of Rs.3.85 Crore comprises a G+II RCC framed structure with a plinth area of 3,885 sq. ft. and is designed to accommodate approximately 800–900 pilgrims through floor bedding arrangements. Earlier, the Lieutenant Governor paid obeisance at Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple and prayed for peace, prosperity and the well-being of all.

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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