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

SRINAGAR: Minister for Health & Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today emphasized on the need to simplify procedures and adopt people-friendly measures for the benefit of Senior Citizens and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). The Minister made these remarks while chairing a review meeting to review performance and functioning of Composite Regional Centre (CRC) Srinagar/Jammu at Civil Secretariat here.

The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare department, Sarmad Hafeez; Directors of Social Welfare Kashmir and Jammu, Director CRC Srinagar/Jammu, Executive Director State Rehabilitation Council J&K, Chairman & Managing Director Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO), District Social Welfare Officers and other concerned officers. The outstation officers attended the meeting through virtual mode.

Underscoring the importance of ease in access, the Minister directed the concerned departments to streamline the process of issuing disability certificates and providing assistive devices so that the maximum number of beneficiaries can avail the schemes being implemented through CRC. She further directed CRC authorities to organize awareness camps beyond district headquarters, ensuring that people in remote areas amd far-flung are made aware of the facilities and services available.

Stressing on the importance of quality assurance, Minister Sakeena instructed CRC and ALIMCO to conduct rigorous quality checks of all assistive equipments before distribution to beneficiaries. The Minister also highlighted the challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing diagnostic centres operating from upper floors, urging departments to address these infrastructural barriers. She called upon the Social Welfare department to explore ways to support those unable to obtain or update their Aadhaar cards, so that they are not deprived of pensions and other welfare benefits.

On the issue of empowerment, the Minister advocated for extending loan facilities to persons with disabilities to help them become self-reliant and economically independent. “Government has to do more in this sector. The people need us, and it is our responsibility to reach their doorsteps with support, care and dignity,” she said. Earlier, representatives of CRC Srinagar & Jammu and ALIMCO gave detailed presentations on their functioning and achievements so far.

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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