In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
  • Paddle-driven charkhas to enhance yarn count, yield

SRINAGAR: In order to secure the indigenous process of hand-spinning of world-famous Pashmina wool, the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, has replaced traditional charkhas with 213 Modern Charkhas in all its 16 Pashmina Spinning Training Centres with an intake capacity of 20 trainees in each centre. These training centres are functional in Srinagar, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, Baramulla, Ganderbal, Anantnag and Bandipora districts.

Sharing details in a press statement issued here today, a spokesman of the Department stated that the modern spinning charkhas designed by SKUAST Kashmir provide a healthy posture to the spinners, who earlier had to sit on haunches to hand-spin the Pashmina wool, an arduous task known only to the famed artisans of Kashmir. “The modern charkha also increases daily yield at least three times, thereby increasing the financial income of the artisans,” he added.

Highlighting the salient features, the spokesman further stated that these paddle-driven charkhas contribute to enhance uniformity in the Pashmina yarn count. “The modern charkha is also easy to operate and offers a comfort zone to the spinners, contrary to the much tiring experience on the traditional charkhas earlier,” he added.

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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