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

UDHAMPUR: The Integrated Watershed Management Programme IWMP Udhampur today organised an awareness programme at Kallar as part of the month-long Watershed Mahotsav 2025, being observed from November 17 to December 16, 2025. The programme was presided over by Project Manager IWMP Dr Ashwani Hansa and witnessed active participation from the stakeholder departments and community representatives.

The programme was attended by BDO Shahbaz Choudhary; Panchayat Secretaries, Panchayat Account Assistants, RDD staff, Anganwadi workers of the Social Welfare Department, members of Self Help Groups and staff of IWMP. The participants were sensitised on the importance of soil and water conservation, afforestation, community participation and sustainable agricultural practices.

Resource persons highlighted the role of integrated watershed management in ensuring ecological balance and long-term water security for rural communities. A special pledge ceremony was also organised, wherein all attendees vowed to save water, save earth, while reaffirming their commitment to environmental protection and responsible resource management. The programme aimed at increasing public awareness and encouraging community-driven initiatives to protect natural resources, a key objective of Watershed Mahotsav 2025.

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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