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

NEW DELHI: Sandeep Rai, Founder of The Circle India, emphasizes the urgent need for transformative investments in education as the Union Budget 2025 approaches. He highlights that policymakers and practitioners are advocating for critical areas such as infrastructure, digital investments, higher education, research, and teacher development. Rai asserts that while these elements are essential, the budget must prioritize three significant initiatives.

First, he argues for a **reinvestment in school innovations**, stating that the current educational model is outdated and India risks falling behind globally. He advocates for bridging the gap between technology and education, as well as aligning academic programs with workforce needs to create exemplary schools that embody this new vision.

Second, Rai stresses the importance of **investing in talent development**, noting that leapfrogging in education is unattainable without well-prepared teachers and school leaders. He calls for budget allocations that not only enhance teacher capacity but also redefine the role of educators to meet modern educational demands.

Lastly, he acknowledges the progress made in foundational literacy and numeracy over recent years but insists that the upcoming budget should build on these achievements. Rai believes that with the right investments, the Union Budget 2025 can catalyze significant advancements in education, leveraging expertise from both private and non-profit sectors to foster innovative proof points and collaborative funding solutions. Rai concludes with a hopeful call to action: "Can our Union Budget 2025 take the first step and model something bold?"

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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