SRINAGAR: A PhD scholar from the National Institute of Technology Srinagar has become the first recipient of the prestigious IndiaAI Research Fellowship from the Institute as well as from Jammu and Kashmir.

Saqib Asgar Kanth is among 146 candidates selected across the country, with representation from only three National Institutes of Technology (NITs), stressing the highly competitive nature of the fellowship. He is pursuing his doctoral research under the supervision of Dr Neeraj Gupta, Assistant Professor at Electrical Engineering Department of the Institute.

Dr Neeraj Gupta said Kanth is the first and only scholar from NIT Srinagar to have received the fellowship so far, marking a notable addition to the institute’s academic and research credentials.

Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, congratulated the scholar and said that this achievement reflects the growing research ecosystem at the institute and our sustained focus on promoting innovation in emerging and impactful domains. It is a matter of pride for the entire institution, he said.

 “Such recognitions highlight the academic excellence and research potential of our scholars. It also reinforces the institute’s commitment to contributing meaningfully to national missions in areas like artificial intelligence and sustainable energy,” Prof. Kanaujia said. Institute’s Registrar, Prof. Atikur Rehman, said that it is encouraging to see our scholars making a mark at the national level.

“This achievement reflects the strong academic foundation at NIT Srinagar and our commitment to nurturing talent in emerging and socially relevant fields,” he added. The IndiaAI Fellowship, a flagship initiative under the IndiaAI Mission, is aimed at supporting outstanding doctoral researchers working in frontier areas of artificial intelligence.

It provides a monthly stipend, annual research grant, and support for presenting work at international conferences, thereby fostering high-quality research and innovation in the country. Kanth’s research focuses on the integration of artificial intelligence with renewable energy systems, with the objective of developing intelligent, adaptive, and sustainable solutions for next-generation power grids.

His work is expected to contribute to enhancing efficiency, reliability, and scalability in clean energy systems, a sector that is increasingly critical in the context of climate change and growing energy demands.

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