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

JAMMU: From the quiet shores of Andaman to winning medals on international stages, M. Bhavani’s journey is full of courage and hard work. She is a coach, an educator, and an international Para athlete who never gave up on her dreams. At the age of sixteen, Bhavani’s life changed when she received a special shoe lift to support her mobility. Years later, with encouragement from her psychologist, she decided to try sports. Without any formal training, she entered her first 100m race at the National Para Athletics Championships and won.

Her journey in sports, however, was not easy. “Training in Andaman was tough, with no proper ground or gear,” Bhavani recalls. During this time, she trained under coach S. Dharma Rao, who introduced her to the techniques of the 100m run and long jump, guidance she continues to value deeply.

Despite the challenges and with the ambition to practice at an advanced level, Bhavani moved to Bengaluru, where she now trains under coach Aiyappa Bollanda. She thanks her sponsor, CBM India, for their strong support. “CBM India’s financial support has been crucial in my journey so far. From nutrition and training fees to sports gear, they cover all my foundational expenses, allowing me to fully concentrate on my training,” she shares.

Her hard work has paid off. In 2025, she won a silver medal at the Dubai 2025 World Para Athletics Grand Prix and later won another silver and a bronze at the Khelo India Para Games in New Delhi. She now has 13 medals to her name. Besides being an athlete, Bhavani is also helping others. Before moving to Bengaluru, as a Block Resource Person for children with disabilities under Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, she supported hundreds of children in special education and sports in her hometown of Sri Vijaya Puram.

Bhavani’s strength comes from her love for teaching and children. “Each child I teach feels like my own, and I’m proud to share their victories. I envision a better future for children with disabilities in Andaman, far removed from today’s limited resources,” she says. Bhavani’s story shows that with courage, support, and determination, even the smallest beginnings can lead to big victories.

Note: M. Bhavani is one of 18 Para athletes supported by CBM India, a non-profit organization working on disability inclusion. Their inclusive sports program covers the athletes’ costs for coaching and training, sports equipment, participation in sports events, and nutritional and other developmental requirements.

About CBM India Trust

CBM India Trust is a leading not-for-profit development organization committed to improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities and members of other marginalized communities. They work alongside persons with disabilities, their representative organizations, community-based organizations, institutions, and the government to remove cultural and environmental barriers to persons with disabilities’ full participation in health, education, and livelihood opportunities.

CBM India aspires to create an inclusive society in which persons with disabilities achieve their full potential. In 2024-25, they reached over 20.6 lakh people in 17 states and union territories across India. To know more about CBM India, visit www.cbmindia.org

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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