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

JAMMU: Thousands of bank employees staged demonstrations today (14th February) in front of regional, zonal, and head offices of various banks across the country. Organized under the banner of the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU)—which comprises AIBOC, AIBEA, NCBE, BEFI, INBEC, INBOC, NOBW, and NOBO—the protest highlighted key demands aimed at improving both customer service and employee welfare.

A central demand of the unions is the introduction of a 5-day work week in the banking industry. Union leaders pointed out that during the March 2024 Bipartite Settlement and Joint Note, the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) and the unions reached an agreement to implement a 5-day week, and a formal recommendation was forwarded to the government for approval.

However, nearly a year has passed and the government is yet to notify this change. “With 24x7 digital banking services already available and most government and corporate offices working five days a week, it’s high time the banking sector aligns with this practice,” said a UFBU spokesperson.

Another pressing issue raised by the unions is the need for permanent recruitment across all cadres. Union leaders underscored that a robust workforce not only ensures better customer service but also reduces work pressure on existing staff, ultimately improving the quality of banking operations. They also highlighted various other concerns, including the urgent need to address the rising workload in branches due to staff shortages, Ensuring fair and transparent policies regarding promotions, transfers, and employee welfare, and Opposing any attempts at unfair labor practices and further privatization within the banking sector.

Today’s demonstrations are part of a broader agitation program, including a dharna in Delhi on 03rd March 2025, and culminating in a two-day nationwide strike on 24th and 25th March 2025. Union leaders stated that if their demands remain unaddressed, they will intensify their protests in the coming weeks.

About United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU):

UFBU is an umbrella body of nine major trade unions representing employees and officers in the Indian banking industry. It works to safeguard the rights of bank employees and to ensure a robust, customer-centric banking system.

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 👇