JAMMU: The Environment Information Awareness Capacity building and livelihood (EIACP) Centre J&K Hub, in collaboration with the Geological Survey of India (GSI), Jammu today organized a special program to celebrate World Soil Day under the theme “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities.” The event, attended by faculty and students from Government Women’s College Parade, aimed to raise awareness on how soil health directly influences urban sustainability, environmental resilience and the overall well-being of communities.

At the outset, Director GSI D. Bharti welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of collaborative scientific outreach. This was followed by an address by Director GSI Dr. Vinod Kumar, who elaborated on the role of Geological Survey of India in Jammu & Kashmir, current geological studies and ongoing initiatives. They appreciated the joint effort of EIACP and GSI in making students aware about the critical link between soil health and the sustainability of modern cities.

An insightful expert lecture was delivered by Senior Geologist GSI Mohammad Ibrahim, who explained soil formation processes, types of rocks, and their influence on soil characteristics— providing students with a deep understanding of the geological foundations of soil health.

Coordinator EIACP J&K Dr. Rajan Singh delivered the keynote address. Dr. Singh spoke extensively about the intrinsic relationship between forests and soil stressing how forest ecosystems play a vital role in maintaining soil fertility, structure, and biodiversity. He also highlighted the significance of the Forest Soil Health Card initiative by ICFRE, which helps monitor soil parameters and promotes informed conservation practices.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Kirti Bhatt, Programme Officer, EIACP who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, experts, faculty and student participants.

Later, faculty and students from Government Women’s College Parade visited the Rock Museum at GSI, where they explored a rich collection of geological specimens and learned about the region’s geological heritage. The celebration successfully highlighted how maintaining healthy soil is essential for building healthy, resilient and sustainable cities, aligning with this year’s World Soil Day theme

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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