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

JAMMU: Describing Somnath Swabhiman Parv – 2026 as a defining moment in India’s civilizational journey, Pawan Sharma, BJP Senior Leader and State Secretary, Jammu & Kashmir, said that this historic initiative reflects the unwavering resolve of the Narendra Modi-led Government to celebrate, protect, and reaffirm India’s rich religious and cultural legacy with pride and dignity.

Pawan Sharma said that January 2026 marks 1,000 years of the barbaric attack on the Somnath Temple in 1026 by Mahmud of Ghazni, an assault not merely on a temple but on India’s spiritual consciousness, cultural identity, and civilizational ethos. Despite repeated attempts to destroy it, Somnath has stood tall for a millennium, symbolizing the indomitable spirit, resilience, and continuity of Sanatan civilization.

He further highlighted that the year 2026 also marks the completion of 75 years of the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple, which was inaugurated on May 11, 1951, in the august presence of the then President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad. The reconstruction itself stands as a testimony to national self-respect, collective resolve, and the vision of leaders who believed in restoring India’s cultural pride after centuries of oppression.

Recalling the painful history, Pawan Sharma noted that the attack on Somnath lasted for three days—January 8, 9, and 10, 1026. To commemorate this tragedy and to pay homage to the eternal integrity of Somnath, it has been decided that Omkar Mantra chanting will be organized in all Shiva temples across the country on January 10, 2026. He said that citizens from all walks of life will be encouraged to visit their nearby Shiva temples during these days, participate in collective chanting, offer prayers, and take pledges to safeguard India’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

He informed that January 11, 2026, will witness the Sahasra Sankalp Yatra at the Somnath Temple, to be organized under the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during which the year-long celebration of Somnath Swabhiman Parv will be formally announced. This Parv will be observed throughout the year across the nation, reinforcing the message of cultural resurgence, unity, and national self-respect.

Pawan Sharma appealed to all BJP party officials and workers to ensure effective and comprehensive implementation of the program. He emphasized that puja, aarti, and Omkar chanting with active public participation should be organized in maximum Shiva temples across the country on January 10. He stressed that participation of all party workers above the level of Mandal President, along with Block Panchayat Members, District Panchayat Members, Councillors, MLAs, and Members of the Legislative Council, must be ensured.

He added that information regarding the programs should be disseminated from the state level to the grassroots level through WhatsApp groups, call centers, audio bridges, and other communication platforms well before evening, so that maximum public participation can be achieved. Programs involving senior officials and senior leaders will be finalized and communicated by the state office.

Concluding, Pawan Sharma said that Somnath Swabhiman Parv – 2026 is not merely a commemorative event, but a national movement—a reaffirmation of India’s timeless faith, cultural continuity, and civilizational pride. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the nation is reclaiming its historical narrative with confidence, unity, and self-respect, he asserted.

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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