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

SRINAGAR: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), through its Directorate of Extension, today launched a month-long advanced training programme on "Soil/Silt Testing and Sediment Monitoring in Soil Conservation" to enhance the technical capacity of officials from the Jammu & Kashmir Department of Soil and Water Conservation in scientific soil analysis, watershed management and climate-resilient land resource management.

The programme has brought together 10 departmental officials for intensive training, combining classroom lectures, laboratory demonstrations, field-based practicals and hands-on sessions. The training is being delivered by experts from the Division of Soil Science and the Division of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, SKUAST-K.

Inaugurating the programme, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-K, said healthy soils form the foundation of sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, food security and the promotion of natural and organic farming. She emphasised that scientific soil and silt testing, coupled with sediment monitoring, is critical for soil health management, watershed conservation and judicious nutrient management. Stressing the importance of continuous capacity building, she said such programmes equip field functionaries with modern scientific knowledge and practical skills to strengthen soil and water conservation, enhance climate resilience and promote sustainable agricultural practices across Jammu and Kashmir.

The comprehensive curriculum covers soil sampling and laboratory analysis, soil physical and chemical properties, soil moisture measurement, organic carbon estimation, soil erosion assessment, runoff measurement, sediment sampling and monitoring techniques, watershed management, infiltration studies, hydraulic conductivity, contour farming, water harvesting, and the use of modern instruments for soil and sediment monitoring. A strong emphasis has been placed on laboratory exercises and field demonstrations to ensure participants acquire hands-on expertise in contemporary soil conservation methodologies.

The programme is being coordinated by Prof. S. K. Raina, Dr. Mohammad Iqbal Bhat and Prof. Lyaqat Choudhary. By bringing together expertise from multiple disciplines, the initiative is expected to significantly strengthen the technical capabilities of field officials and contribute to more effective soil and water conservation practices across Jammu and Kashmir.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇