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

NEW DELHI: Leading not-for-profit organisation, NIIT Foundation, hosted a first-of-its-kind impact-experiential workshop at the USI Premises, New Delhi. Designed as an invite-only event, the workshop aimed to reimagine how social impact can be scaled across India. The event was attended by leaders from corporate, philanthropic, policy, and development ecosystems.

Anchored in the theme “Future-Ready Impact: Humanity, Technology and Inclusion,” the afternoon focused on how technology-led interventions are being applied at the grassroots to address gaps in access and opportunity. Participants were given a closer look at NIIT Foundation’s on-ground work through its digital bus initiative and a series of experiential booths, which demonstrated how digital tools are being used to reach communities at the last mile.

The workshop was graced by the virtual presence of Hon’ble Sujeet Kumar, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Member of the Standing Committee on Communications & Information Technology. Commenting on the importance of such engagements, he said, “While our systems for data collation are robust, it is imperative that technology meaningfully reaches rural pockets. Organisations like NIIT Foundation are essential in ensuring this last-mile impact.”

Speaking at the event, Ms. Sapna Moudgil, Chief Executive Officer, NIIT Foundation, said, “For us, impact is not a statistic alone; it is a lived reality shaped by people, partnerships, and policy working together. I am certain this helped the gathering to experience that reality firsthand, and to explore how technology, when guided by empathy and intent, can unlock dignity, opportunity, and lasting inclusion for India’s youth.”

NIIT Foundation’s work today spans 83% of India’s districts, with more than 13 million learners skilled, and over 3 lakh successful job placements enabled across its programs. The Foundation’s initiatives focus on expanding access to opportunity for underserved youth, particularly women and first-generation learners, across themes like digital and financial literacy, STEM education, employability, and livelihood training.

According to the World Economic Forum’s India-focused analysis, around 63% Indian workers will require digital upskilling by 2030, with a portion at risk of missing training[1]. As India advances the Digital India vision and works towards the broader goal of Viksit Bharat, the demand for job-ready digital skills is rising across sectors.

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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