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

JAMMU: As the world observes the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025, we are called to re-examine how our societies are built, who they include, and who they leave behind. This year’s theme highlights the collective responsibility to create environments where accessibility is intentional, participation is universal, and leadership from persons with disabilities is not the exception but the norm.

At a time when conversations on equity, resilience, and sustainable development are reshaping global priorities, disability inclusion stands at the center of meaningful progress. For CBM India Trust, this day reinforces their commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities are not only beneficiaries of development but active architects of change. With this vision, they reflect on the journey ahead, one that demands systemic transformation, shared accountability, and unwavering respect for every individual’s dignity and rights.

Sony Thomas, Executive Director, CBM India Trust, said: "On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025, CBM India Trust honors the leadership, resilience, and powerful contributions of persons with disabilities who continue to shape our society in transformative ways. This year’s global focus on building disability-inclusive societies reminds us that no society can claim progress until every person can participate fully and with dignity.

At CBM India Trust, we believe inclusion is an act of justice and that a truly inclusive society is one where persons with disabilities influence policies, lead institutions, and drive solutions that impact their lives. Their lived experiences are essential knowledge needed for creating systems that are equitable and future-ready.

We, CBM India Trust, reaffirm our commitment to advancing accessible and inclusive healthcare, education, and livelihood opportunities, and ensuring that persons with disabilities are at the center of decision-making. Through our programs, partnerships, and community-driven initiatives, we are working to dismantle barriers, redesign systems, and build pathways that empower individuals to thrive.

Sustainable progress happens when society shifts from viewing persons with disabilities through a lens of limitation to recognizing them as co-creators of equitable and sustainable development. When their voices guide public life, when accessibility becomes non-negotiable, and when inclusion becomes a shared responsibility, we move closer to a world where everyone can live and contribute with autonomy and agency.

On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, institutions, businesses, and communities must join together in building a society that is inclusive by design, one where progress is measured not only by economic indicators, but by how well we honor every person’s right to opportunity, dignity, and participation.”

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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