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

KISHTWAR: Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma on Monday visited the Small Business Development Unit (SBDU) office established here at the District Employment and Counseling Centre (DE&CC). The Small Business Development Unit (SBDU) office under Mission YUVA was virtually inaugurated by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah this afternoon, marking a significant step toward strengthening youth entrepreneurship and self-employment opportunities in the district.

During the visit, the DC inspected the facilities and interacted with the staff to get feedback about any requirements. “The SBDU will act as a dedicated platform to support aspiring entrepreneurs by offering end-to-end assistance under Mission YUVA,” he noted. He expressed optimism that the initiative shall significantly enhance self-employment avenues and promote entrepreneurship development across the district.

The SBDU office comprises several sections including Reception, DPR Creation, Credit Enablement and Capacity Building. Each section has been designed to provide guidance to entrepreneurs, preparation of detailed project reports, facilitation of financial linkages and skill enhancement activities. The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by Additional Deputy Commissioner Pawan Kotwal; Assistant Director Employment Mamta Sudershan; Employment Officer Vinod Kumar and other staff members of DE&CC.

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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