SRINAGAR: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir celebrated World Meteorological Day at its Shalimar campus with the launch of a ‘Climate Champion Club’. The event, held under the theme ‘Observing Today and Protecting Tomorrow’, drew a diverse audience of over 200 participants, including students from the Faculty of Horticulture, SKUAST-K and RP School Nagbal.

The program was organised by the university’s Division of Agrometeorology in collaboration with the Kashmir Chapter of the Association of Agrometeorologists and the Department of Students’ Welfare. The day’s activities were designed to bridge the gap between high-level climate science and practical, youth-led action.

Dr Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension attended the programme as the Chief Guest and provided a perspective on the region's ecological history. She contrasted the traditional, sustainable practices of earlier Kashmiri generations with the environmental degradation seen in modern times. Addressing the young participants, Dr Kanth emphasized that the responsibility for restoration now rests with the younger generation.

Dr Sameera Qayoom, Head, Division of Agrometeorology, underscored the vital link between climate services and agricultural success. She challenged the attending students to take personal ownership of the planet’s future by mastering climate dynamics. Echoing this sentiment, Dean Students’ Welfare and Guest of Honour, Dr Sajad Ahmad Gangoo, called for collective action to drive environmental conservation.

The technical sessions explored the intersection of technology and ecology, focusing on how Artificial Intelligence, biotechnology, and carbon sequestration can build agricultural resilience. Beyond lectures, the event featured hands-on demonstrations. Dr. Latief Ahmad, the event organizer, alongside faculty members, trained students on the use of portable agrometeorological instruments.

The key highlight of the event was the initiation of Climate Champion Club. As part of this new outreach model, SKUAST-K announced the adoption of RP School Nagbal. The partnership aims to transform school students into climate advocates through practical training, regular awareness activities, and direct improvements to the environmental conditions of their campus.

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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