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

JAMMU: Principal Secretary Culture and School Education, Suresh Kumar Gupta, today inaugurated a three day International Art Exhibition cum Workshop titled ‘Valley City’ at the GR Santosh Gallery, Kala Kendra. The event, organized by Kala Kendra Society in collaboration with Art Express Gujarat, witnessed participation from dignitaries, artists and art lovers  from across the globe.

In his address, Principal Secretary Suresh Kumar Gupta stressed  that the event serves not just as an exhibition but also as a dynamic platform for interaction between local artists and 40 visual art experts from across India. He underscored the importance of art in education, noting that the workshop sessions would explore how visual arts foster cultural understanding and empathy.

Encouraging local youth, he announced that the workshop is open free of charge for art students from Jammu and Kashmir, providing them with a unique learning opportunity. Gupta further assured that Kala Kendra will be developed into a vibrant hub of art and appreciated the artists' contributions to the exhibition.

Yudvir Sethi and Priya Sethi, also spoke on the occasion. Dr. Babita Hada, curator of the exhibition and representative of Art Express Gujarat, mentioned that 50 artists from across India are participating in this unique event. The event also saw speeches from prominent artists like K K Gandhi, Richa Gupta, and Raj Kumar Chouhan, who shared their insights and praised the initiative.

The ‘Valley City’ art exhibition cum workshop will continue for the next two days. Earlier, Dr. Javaid Rahi, Secretary Kala Kendra Society, highlighted that the exhibition is featuring 150 artworks by 90 artists representing all states and union territories of India. The exhibition's key attraction included contributions from artists hailing from 10 different countries, including Egypt, Venezuela, Argentina, Peru, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Taiwan, Nepal, and Poland.

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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