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

SRINAGAR: A dedicated team from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Bhagat Barzulla, conducted an extensive demonstration-cum-mock drill on disaster preparedness and emergency management at the Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar on Thursday under direction of Director SDRF Kashmir, Imtiyaz Hussain Mir.

The activity was specifically organised for the MBBS Batch 2025, aiming to enhance their awareness, technical abilities, and confidence while responding to critical incidents and public health emergencies. The mock drill featured a series of realistic demonstrations covering a wide range of emergency situations that commonly arise during disasters.

The SDRF team presented structured modules on earthquake preparedness, outlining the immediate actions required to minimise injuries, maintain safety, and assist victims until medical teams arrive. Fire emergency training included demonstrations on identifying hazards, safe evacuation techniques, and systematic fire response strategies. Students were also introduced to drowning rescue procedures, including safe retrieval and first-aid steps essential for stabilising patients until they receive advanced care.

One of the key components of the programme was the training in airway obstruction management in both paediatric and adult populations. The SDRF experts demonstrated the Heimlich maneuver and shared clinical insights on recognising choking, differentiating partial from complete obstruction, and applying age-appropriate interventions.

 Additionally, students received hands-on practice in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), including chest compressions, rescue breaths, and automated external defibrillator (AED) awareness, aligning with internationally recognised emergency care guidelines.

The session also included practical guidance on the proper use of fire extinguishers, where students were encouraged to operate the equipment themselves under supervision. This activity helped participants build familiarity with the PASS method, which is considered an essential skill during fire outbreaks.

Officials from the SDRF emphasised that the exercise was designed to familiarise future doctors with first-responder responsibilities, particularly during large-scale emergencies where medical teams collaborate with rescue units to manage mass casualty situations. 

The participants were introduced to key principles of triage, prioritisation of victims, and rapid situational assessment, skills that remain critical during disasters. Faculty members at GMC Srinagar appreciated the efforts and professionalism of the SDRF team, acknowledging that such programmes significantly strengthen emergency preparedness in the healthcare sector. 

Students expressed positive feedback and acknowledged that the session enhanced their understanding of disaster medicine, risk communication, and crisis response. The training created awareness regarding the importance of preparedness at individual, institutional, and community levels.

The programme concluded with a pledge to conduct similar hands-on training sessions regularly as part of a broader initiative to improve resilience, response capacity, and disaster risk reduction in the region. 

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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