SRINAGAR: In a significant step towards strengthening agricultural research and innovation in the Kashmir Valley, a high-level delegation from the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad visited the Dryland Agriculture Research Station (DARS), Rangreth, of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K).

The team was led by Dr. Stephen Blade, Deputy Director General, (Research and Innovation) at ICRISAT, accompanied by Dr. Manzoor Hussain Dar, Global Head (Seed systems), and Dr Damaris A. Odeny (Cluster Leader) for Genomics and Trait Discovery ICRISAT. The visit marks a new chapter of collaboration between SKUAST-Kashmir and ICRISAT, Hyderabad in advancing sustainable agricultural practices, crop improvement, and climate-resilient technologies for the Himalayan region.

The experts held discussion on the establishment of the “Himalayan Centre for Climate-Resilient Agriculture (HIMRCA)” at DARS, SKUAST-Kashmir, Rangreth which can foster a hub for advanced research, innovation, and capacity building. The ICRISAT team expressed keen interest in partnering on this proposed centre, especially in areas of climate-smart agriculture, seed systems, and integrated farming approaches.

The visit is expected to pave the way for a long-term collaborative framework between ICRISAT, Hyderabad and SKUAST-K, with a focus on enhancing research, innovation, and outreach for the benefit of farmers in the Himalayanregion.

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