AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA), organized a two-day Training and Capacity Building Workshop on Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM).

The workshop aimed to strengthen community-level resilience and preparedness through participatory learning, focusing on equipping grassroots stakeholders with essential skills to respond effectively during disasters. Participants included panchayat supervisors, religious teachers, ICDS supervisors, community mobilisers from NRLM, panchayat secretaries, VLWs, religious leaders, NGO representatives, and members from the adopted villages of the university under the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) who are actively involved in community development and emergency response.

The workshop was inaugurated by Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST, as Chief Guest, who emphasized the importance of strengthening local capacities to minimize disaster risks and ensure sustainable community preparedness. Prof. Muzafar Ahmad, former Member, NDMA, was the Guest of Honour for the inaugural session.

During the two-day programme, experts from academia and humanitarian organizations conducted interactive sessions and practical demonstrations covering various aspects of disaster risk management. Dr. Itenderpal Singh Bali, National Level Trainer with the Indian Red Cross Society, led sessions on Basic Life-Saving Skills and First Aid Training during Disasters, highlighting the importance of timely first aid interventions and preparedness at the household and community levels.

Other sessions included a module by Prof. Sarfaraz Ahmad, Dept. of Social Work University of Kashmir on Community Mobilization. The workshop was coordinated by Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction and Mantaqi Centre for Science and Society (MCSS) in collaboration with the Community Connect vertical of the Dean of Outreach IUST.

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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