SRINAGAR: In a move that cements Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technologies of Kashmir’s status as a premier research institution, varsity’s Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry Shuhama has been formally inducted into the Indian Council of Agricultural Research’s National Centre for Veterinary Type Culture (ICAR-NCVTC) network.

The prestigious national recognition designates the Veterinary Faculty Shuhama as a specialized repository unit for Mycoplasma cultures, positioning SKUAST-K at the forefront of national efforts to combat economically important livestock diseases. The inclusion was formalised during the XIVth Annual Review Meeting of the ICAR–NCVTC Network Project held at the NASC Complex, New Delhi.

The meeting was chaired by Dr Raghavendra Bhatta, Deputy Director General, Animal Science, ICAR, and attended by Dr Divakar Hemadri, ADG, Animal Health; Dr TK Bhattacharya, Director, ICAR-NRCE, and Dr RK Vaid, Head of Division, NCVTC.

As a designated repository unit, the Mycoplasma Laboratory at Shuhama will play a vital role in the collection, identification and preservation of veterinary pathogens. The collaboration is set to significantly enhance the university's research capacity and its contribution to national biosecurity. 

Dr Mohammad Iqbal Yatoo, Associate Professor, Division Veterinary Clinical Medicine, has been designated as the Principal Investigator (PI) for the unit. Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Kashmir, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, congratulated the veterinary scientists particularly Dr Yatoo, for their dedicated efforts.

"The development is a matter of great pride for SKUAST-Kashmir," Prof Ganai stated. "Our inclusion in the ICAR–NCVTC network is a testament to the growing research excellence and national relevance of our university. It reinforces our commitment to addressing critical challenges in animal health at a national and global level", he added.

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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