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

JAMMU: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today laid the foundation stone for restoration and construction of flood protection works worth 2.47 crore at Fattu Kotli, Garkhal along the left bank of River Chenab. The Minister was accompanied by MLA Akhnoor, Mohan Lal Bhagat and senior officers from the department.

Addressing on the occasion, the Minister affirmed that strengthening flood management infrastructure remains a top priority for the government and the intervention at Fattu Kotli will bolster the resilience of vulnerable areas against flood threats. He underlined the importance of building durable and effective protective structures along the vulnerable riverbanks to safeguard the lives, property and agricultural land from the recurring menace of floods.

Javed Rana emphasised that with the monsoon season approaching, it is imperative to expedite flood protection works across the Union Territory. He directed the concerned departments and executing agencies to ensure timely completion of the works with strict adherence to prescribed quality standards, leaving no room for delays or lapses.

The Minister reiterated the government's commitment towards developing robust flood mitigation infrastructure and assured that all vulnerable stretches along the major rivers would be addressed on priority. He called upon the officers to adopt a proactive and responsive approach towards maintenance and strengthening of existing protective structures ahead of the approaching monsoon, particularly in areas susceptible to erosion and inundation.

Earlier, the Minister also inspected the damaged Tawi embankment at Bhagatpur village in Marh Block of Jammu district. During his visit to Bhagatpur, the Minister inspected the damaged portion of the Tawi embankment and sought detailed report from the officers regarding the restoration plan. He stressed the need for adopting a proactive approach towards maintenance and strengthening of flood protection infrastructure, particularly in areas prone to erosion and inundation.

The Minister also interacted with the local residents and public representatives, who apprised him of various issues concerning the flood protection and water management in their respective areas. He assured them that all their genuine concerns would be addressed in a time-bound manner.

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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