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

JAMMU: Secretary Health & Medical Education, Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, today presided over the Union Territory level function held to mark World AIDS Day 2025. The event was organised by the J&K AIDS Control Society (JKACS) at the Convention Centre, Canal Road, Jammu.

In his address, the Secretary spoke about the profound impact HIV/AIDS has on the lives and mental well-being of affected individuals. He highlighted the collective responsibility required to address such public health challenges. He emphasized the need for transformative solutions to improve the patient access to HIV services, eliminate stigma and discrimination while ensuring protection of their rights.

Dr. Abid Rasheed appreciated the efforts of JKACS and commended community members for openly sharing their experiences. He assured all possible support from the department to ensure that people living with HIV receive the necessary assistance to lead healthy and productive lives. He also underscored the importance of engaging diverse stakeholders to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of ending AIDS as a global health threat by 2030.

This year’s theme, “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response,” focuses on addressing disruptions in HIV prevention and treatment services and calls for a transformed, resilient response driven by political commitment, international cooperation and human-rights-centered approaches.

Following the formal proceedings, the dignitaries visited various awareness booths set up by different wings of the Health Department in the foyer area. The stalls featured IEC material on HIV/AIDS, free HIV testing, TB awareness, AYUSH medicines, Anemia Mukt Bharat services, Tele-MANAS services, yoga demonstrations and distribution of medicines by NHM with support from the Directorate of Health Services Jammu.

The dignitaries also inspected the posters and canvas paintings prepared by the students from various Red Ribbon Clubs of different educational institutions. Earlier, Project Director, J&K AIDS Control Society, Dr. Jehangir Bakshi, delivered the welcome address and outlined the overall functioning and initiatives of the Society. The event also featured cultural performances, including dance presentations by students from various institutions, aimed at spreading awareness among the audience.

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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