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

KATRA: The Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), Shri Sachin Kumar Vaishya today directed officials to expedite the execution of all ongoing development works of the Shrine Board. He issued these instructions while chairing a review meeting on the Board’s developmental works held at the Spiritual Growth Centre, Katra, with special focus on works being executed under its social support initiative in and around Katra.

During the meeting, the CEO undertook a comprehensive review of the development works being implemented by the Board in the surrounding areas, along the tracks leading to the Holy Shrine and within the Shrine premises, aimed at further strengthening and upgrading facilities for the pilgrims and the public at large.

As part of the deliberations, the CEO also reviewed the progress of repair and renovation works in twelve Government Schools in Reasi district and one in Udhampur district, taken up by the Shrine Board under its social support initiative. These schools include Government High School, Sirla Bhaga; Government Middle Schools at Chack Bhagtha, Panthal, Parthal, Manoon and Kun Kanyala; and Government Primary Schools at Hansali, Kalara Chanjute, Upper Sirla, Geeta Nagar, Purana Daroor and Chumbra in Reasi district, besides Government Primary School, Dhanno in Udhampur district.

The CEO instructed that the six schools where repair and renovation works have been completed be formally handed over to the concerned authorities at the earliest. The completed works comprise construction of new classrooms, repair of damaged roofs with waterproofing, plastering and painting, structural strengthening, repair of doors and windows, and provision of electrification and flooring wherever required.

He emphasized that the timely handover of these institutions will enable local children to benefit from upgraded academic infrastructure and a significantly improved learning environment created through these initiatives.

The CEO was also apprised that the Shrine Board has successfully completed the construction of drains and road works at Sirah Colony, Kakryal, at a cost of ₹1.38 crore under its social support programme, reflecting the Board’s contribution to public welfare in the region in addition to providing services to pilgrims.

It is noteworthy that in recent years, the Shrine Board has supported several such initiatives, including scholarships for meritorious students, upgradation of health facilities and development of community infrastructure in the surrounding areas. Among those present in the meeting were Senior Officers, Area Heads and Engineers of the Shrine Board.

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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