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

SHOPIAN: To enhance disaster preparedness and community safety in the district, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Shopian, Shishir Gupta,Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), today convened a coordination meeting regarding the Civil Defence Corps here at Mini-Secretariat Shopian.

The primary objective of the meeting was to review and strengthen the functioning of the Civil Defence Corps, assess the existing capacity and develop strategies for improved coordination during emergencies and natural disasters. The Civil Defence setup plays a vital role in first response, rescue support, training of volunteers and assisting district administration during crisis situations.

The DC reviewed the civil defence mechanism of the district including the availability of trained manpower, machinery and communication tools, relief, rescue and rehabilitation issues. The meeting was intimated that volunteers are being trained and till now a batch of 24 volunteers have been trained while as second batch is slated for training shortly. SDRF and Home Guards personnel are also available in the district, it was apprised.

The DC instructed for provision of sufficient safety gears, strengthen control-room operations and mobilize manpower to respond promptly during any eventuality. Officers of concerned departments were asked to regularly review the availability and functionality of emergency tools, update the roster of trained volunteers and coordinate closely to ensure a swift and well-organized response during disasters.

Focus was laid on strengthening communication and rescue operations while directing Tehsildars to ensure full preparedness at the tehsil level by keeping a ready pool of volunteers, adequate logistics and all essential machinery and equipment required for disaster management. SSP Shopian, Mushtaq Ahmad Choudhary; ADC, Dr. Zakir Hussain Faaz; SDM Zainapora, concerned officers/officials were present in the meeting.

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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