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

SRINAGAR: The Innovation, Incubation & Entrepreneurship Development (IIED) Centre of National Institute of Technology  (NIT) has earned accolades for its impressive participation in the prestigious AAROHAN 2026 Hackathon & PPT Competition organised by the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports (DYSS) at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC).

Under the leadership of Prof. Babar Ahmad, Head IIED Centre, a contingent of students, innovators and incubatees from the institute presented a series of innovative prototypes and technology-driven solutions addressing challenges in agriculture, robotics, mobility, artificial intelligence and automation.

The projects showcased included a Saffron Processing Machine by Tariq Ahmad Bhat, Walnut De-hulling and Washing Machine by Aqib Abdullah, Haptic Technology-based Virtual Environment by Ubaid Hamid, Drone Technology by Abaan Habib, and Optimization of 5-DOF Robotic Arm by Rayees Ahmad.

Other major innovations included an Automated Solar Grass Cutter developed by Shailendra Kumar, Abhishek Gupta, Saurabh Kumar and Gadari Poornima, “Wheel AI” shelf-life optimization model by Basar Qari, “Curve Electric” urban mobility solution by Sheikh Yameen and Zubair Ahmad Bhat, and a Stylus Guided 2R Manipulator based on Haptic Technology by Muntazir Ahmad. Mr. Irfan Sidiq Sofi coordinated the participation of the team.

In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, congratulated the participating students and faculty members for their outstanding representation and said the institute is committed to fostering a strong culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among youth.

“These young innovators have demonstrated how technology and creativity can be harnessed to address real-world problems. Their participation at AAROHAN 2026 reflects the growing research and innovation ecosystem at NIT Srinagar,” he said. Institute's Registrar, Prof. Atikur Rehman said the institute remains focused on encouraging students to translate ideas into impactful technologies.

“The innovative projects displayed by our students are a testimony to their talent, dedication and technical excellence. We are proud to see our students making meaningful contributions through innovation-driven solutions,” he said. Prof. Babar Ahmad expressed gratitude to the administration of NIT Srinagar for extending continuous support to the IIED Centre and encouraging young innovators to participate in national-level competitions and technology events.

He said the guidance and encouragement from the institute’s leadership has played a crucial role in strengthening the culture of innovation, incubation and entrepreneurship among students. Meanwhile, prototypes attracted significant attention from visitors, experts and organisers during the three-day event, with several projects being appreciated for their practical relevance and local applicability.

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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