The Survival Fight of JK Monitor: For 16 years, JK Monitor has chronicled Jammu and Kashmir with integrity. Since 2010, I have steered its newsroom alongside our visionary Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan (IIT Kharagpur alumnus, University of Maryland Ph.D.). His tragic demise in October 2026 left a severe financial and operational vacuum. Without urgent support, our 24/7 news portal risks permanently shutting down after November 2026, remaining only as a static digital archive. We appeal to well-wishers to extend a helping hand to keep our active newsroom alive. Support Us: WhatsApp: +91-9906103001 | Email: journalistajmerwani@gmail.com

JAMMU: The School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (SHTM), University of Jammu, organised ‘Safarnama 2026 – A Student-Alumni Interaction Meet’, bringing together alumni from various batches of MBA Tourism, BBA Hotel Management and Ph.D. programmes to reconnect with their alma mater and interact with current students. The meet provided a vibrant platform for strengthening alumni relations, fostering professional networking and facilitating the exchange of experiences and insights between alumni and students.

Adding a distinctive cultural dimension to the event, Safarnama 2026 offered the alumni an enriching glimpse into the rich Dogra heritage and cultural traditions of Jammu, complemented by authentic Dogri cuisine. The cultural and culinary experience provided a nostalgic connection with the region's roots while celebrating its vibrant heritage. The occasion also enabled alumni to reminisce about their student days and share valuable insights from their professional journeys, inspiring current students to explore emerging opportunities in the hospitality and tourism industry.

The event was graced by Prof. Parikshat Singh Manhas, Director, Consortium for Educational Communication (CEC), University Grants Commission, New Delhi, who appreciated SHTM for organising the alumni meet. He commended the School's efforts in creating meaningful platforms for interaction and engagement and emphasised the importance of alumni networks in promoting institutional excellence and professional growth.

Prof. Suvidha Khanna, Director, SHTM, warmly welcomed the gathering and expressed her pleasure at witnessing alumni reconnect with their alma mater. In her address, she highlighted the significance of alumni engagement in the overall growth and development of the School, describing alumni as valuable ambassadors of the institution who play a pivotal role in guiding students through their academic and professional journeys. She encouraged the alumni to remain actively connected with SHTM and contribute towards strengthening its academic and professional ecosystem.

Prof. Anil Gupta, SHTM, also conveyed his best wishes to the alumni and acknowledged the importance of maintaining strong institutional connections. He highlighted the valuable role of alumni in enhancing the reputation of SHTM and contributing to its continued growth. Prof. Deepak Raj Gupta, Founder Director, in his online message, underscored the importance of sustained alumni engagement, mutual support and collaborative efforts in strengthening the institution's academic and professional endeavours.

A major highlight of the event was the formal launch of the first issue of ‘TRAVANAMA – The SHTM Legacy’. The publication features experiences, reflections and nostalgic accounts shared by alumni, documenting their professional journeys, achievements and enduring association with the institution. It serves as a valuable compilation of alumni experiences, celebrating their accomplishments and cherished memories while reflecting the rich legacy of SHTM. The initiative also seeks to inspire current students by providing insights into the diverse career pathways and professional experiences of the alumni fraternity.

The dedicated efforts of the Alumni Advisory Team, comprising Ms. Neetu Dhar, Mr. Vaibhav Sharma, Mr. Sachiv Gupta, Ms. Gaayika Kapoor, Mr. Sahildeep Singh Raina, Mr. Sakhsam Sharma, Mr. Arujn Bhalla and Mr. Kamal Jandiyal, along with the organising team of SHTM, comprising Dr. Poonam Sharma, Dr. Priyanka Sharma, Dr. Nidhi Pathania, Dr. Rakesh Sharma, Dr. Sandeva Khajuria, Dr. Honeyka Mahajan, Dr. Sheetal Bhagat, Mr. Anirudh Raina and Mr. Tapas Tandon, were instrumental in the successful planning, coordination and execution of the event.

The meet concluded on a positive note, celebrating shared memories, professional accomplishments and enduring relationships. It reaffirmed SHTM's commitment to nurturing a strong and vibrant alumni network while creating opportunities for mentorship, collaboration and knowledge sharing between alumni and students, further reinforcing the vision of SHTM as a dynamic centre for hospitality and tourism education.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇

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