JAMMU: The Department of Sociology, University of Jammu held a condolence meeting today to condole the sad demise of Prof. Jayaram Panda, the founding Head of the Department, who passed away on Monday, 16th December, 2024 at his native place Bhubaneswar, Orissa. Prof. Panda was former Head, Dean, President Jammu University Teacher’s Association, Treasurer, Indian Sociological Society and President NWISA. The condolence meeting was attended by the faculty members, Non-teaching staff, Research Scholars, Alumni of the department and faculty members from other departments.

The Head, Department of Sociology, Prof. Vishav Raksha remembered her experience of working as a colleague and scholar with Prof. Panda and highlighted his contribution in the early development and growth of the department. Everybody remembered him as a great teacher and an encouraging mentor. Later Prof. Jasbir Singh, Head, Department of Philosophy and Professor, Department of Economics also shared his fond experiences of working with Prof. Panda. Dr. Saranjit Kour, faculty, Centre for Women’s Studies and alumni of the department also recalled the personal memories as a student.

The other faculty members Dr. Hema Gandotra, Dr. Sapna Sangra, Ms. Kajal Kalsi, Dr. Kuljit Singh, Dr. Diksha Nargotra, Dr. Gopal Sharma, students, Research scholars and Alumni of the department including Dr. Ranjeet Sharma, Dr. Nisha Sharma, Dr. Poonam Rainu and others were also present in the condolence meeting. A two minute silence was observed to pray for the peace of the departed soul and it was prayed that strength be with the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss.

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
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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