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

JAMMU: Ahead of financial budget 2025-26 to be announced by the J & K government, Jammu and Kashmir Border Area Development Conference (JK-BADC), a registered organization working for the welfare of the tribals and border residents of J & K , has urged the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to ensure minimum fixed salary for the teachers in J&K.

Dr. Shazad Ahmed Malik, Chairman of JK-BADC and former Vice Chancellor while appreciating the pre-budget feedback meetings held by the Chief Minister said that it is imperative that Omar Abdullah government is listening to the people and it is expected that the budget inputs of stakeholders are practically reflected in the budget document.

The BADC Chairman also put forth demands of his organization related to the budget and urged the Chief Minister to ensure that the teachers are paid a dignified salary. The former VC said ā€œIt is open secret that teachers in private educational institution in J & K are exploited, the most dignified professional is reduced to a mere laborer, struggling to make ends meet due to inadequate payā€ .

Dr Shazad demanded an end to this exploitation of the private teachers in private schools and colleges and stated that this injustice with the teachers not only affects their personal lives but also the quality of education they can provide to students. He said ā€œ Teachers, who are meant to be the pillars of society, should not be subjected to financial hardships.ā€

The BADC Chairman requested the J & K government to ensure that in the budget 2025-26 the government ensures dignified salaries for the teaching professionals. He also demanded establishment of more hostels and scholarship schemes for Schedule Tribe (ST) students.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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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