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

JAMMU: The DEERS–EIACP J&K Hub, in collaboration with the Division of Agronomy SKUAST-Jammu, organized an enriching event to mark World GIS Day 2025, bringing together students, faculty and experts to celebrate and explore the transformative potential of Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from nearly 100 attendees, including staff members, researchers, and students from different departments. The event aimed to enhance awareness about GIS applications and promote geospatial literacy among young scholars. The programme commenced with a warm welcome address by Dr. A. P. Singh, Head, Division of Agronomy, who greeted the distinguished guests, speakers, and participants. He highlighted the importance of hosting such technical events to expose students to emerging scientific tools and technologies.

The event was graced by Coordinator EIACP, Dr. Rajan Singh. In his inaugural address, Dr. Singh underscored the critical importance of GIS technology in everyday life. He emphasized how geospatial tools have become indispensable for scientific planning, sustainable development, resource management and strategic decision-making across various sectors. He encouraged students to develop geospatial skills to meet the growing demand for GIS professionals in the modern workforce.

Later, Registrar and Dean Faculty of Agriculture SKUAST Dr Anil Kumar joined and presided over the function. He recalled the years when Remote Sensing technology was in its initial phase and how it has evolved over a period of time. He elaborated on how SKUAST has embedded GIS in its research and curriculum activities.

The resource persons, including Mr. Gurnaam Parsad, Scientific Assistant, DEERS, Dr. Majid Farooq, Jr. Scientist, DEERS and   Chandra Mohan Adhikari from ESRI, New Delhi, delivered insightful and interactive lectures. Their sessions covered a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from the fundamentals of GIS to advanced applications of geospatial tools in agriculture, environmental management, disaster preparedness and urban planning. Participants showed great interest and actively engaged with the speakers, making the technical sessions highly productive. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Kirti Bhatt, PO, DEERS-EIACP HUB, J&K.

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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