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

SRINAGAR: In a significant move towards inclusive education and workplace support, the Director of School Education Department, Kashmir, Director School Education Kashmir Dr Ghulam Nabi Itoo hold a meeting of employees with Disabilities working in the department and has taken proactive steps to address the concerns of employees and students with disabilities. After a productive meeting with a delegation led by Javed Ahmad Tak, the Director assured the implementation of inclusive policies on a priority basis.

Key decisions announced include:

  1. Accessible Workplaces: Employees with disabilities will be posted in accessible locations with reasonable accommodations to ensure a comfortable working environment.

  2. Attendance App Update: The department will update the attendance application to include a disability category, allowing employees with disabilities to avail special casual leave facilities conveniently.

  3. Inclusive Education Support: Educational institutions will offer complementary admission for students with disabilities and children of parents with disabilities, promoting equitable learning opportunities.

  4. Nodal Officers for Grievance Redressal: Nodal officers will be appointed at district and zonal levels to promptly address the grievances of students and employees with disabilities.

  5. Exemption from Additional Duties: Employees with disabilities will be exempt from additional responsibilities, such as census, election duties, and mid-day meal supervision, unless they voluntarily choose to participate.

  6. Flexible Duty Hours: Employees with disabilities will receive relaxation in duty hours during adverse weather conditions and in cases of health issues.

  7. Special Training Programs: Employees with disabilities will be provided training to support and teach students with disabilities in resource rooms, enhancing inclusive learning.

Furthermore, the delegation requested the Director to address pending issues in line with Supreme Court directives, including the regularization of services for special educators and the implementation of reservation in promotions as per government guidelines.

The Director responded positively, issuing on-the-spot directions for the concerned Chief Education Officers of Pulwama, Anantnag, and Ganderbal to expedite the resolution of employee matters. A follow-up meeting has been scheduled at Zaiba Aapa Institute of Inclusive Education, Kashmir, and a notification regarding the announced exemptions is expected soon.

The delegation expressed gratitude to the Director for the constructive dialogue and commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment. These measures mark a significant step toward empowering employees and students with disabilities, ensuring their rights and well-being are prioritized in the education sector.

This initiative reflects the department's dedication to inclusivity, paving the way for a more equitable and accessible educational landscape in Kashmir.

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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