JAMMU: The Sahitya Akademi, under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) today inaugurated a two-day Dogri Poetry Festival at the Writers’ Club, K.L. Sehgal Hall- Jammu.

The inaugural session commenced with a welcome address by Deputy Secretary, Sahitya Akademi, Shanmukhananda, who highlighted the Academy's sustained efforts towards the promotion and preservation of Indian languages with special emphasis on Dogri.

Convener, Dogri Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi, presented the introductory address and underlined the importance of Dogri literature in India’s multilingual literary tradition. The keynote address was delivered by eminent Dogri writer Khajur Singh Thakur, who elaborated on the evolution and contemporary relevance of Dogri literature.

Speaking on the occasion, Additional Secretary, J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, Lal Chand   emphasized the vital role of literary institutions in safeguarding and promoting regional languages and cultural heritage.

The presidential address was delivered by noted Dogri writer Om Goswami, who shared valuable insights into the creative journey of Dogri literature and stressed the need to encourage young and emerging writers. The proceedings concluded with a vote of thanks by Reeta Khadyal, Editor, Dogri.

After the inaugural session, the first poetry reading session was conducted under the Chairmanship of Darshan Darshi. Prominent poets including Balak Ram Bral, Bishan Singh Dardi, Gopal Krishan Komal, Puran Chander Sharma and Vijaya Thakur recited their poems, showcasing the depth, diversity and vibrancy of Dogri poetic expression.

The second poetry session featured poetic recitations by Ajay Athamian, Promila Manhas and Randhir Singh Raipuria. The session was presided over by Vijay Verma. The inaugural day witnessed enthusiastic participation from writers, scholars and literature enthusiasts, setting an inspiring tone for the two-day Dogri Poetry Festival.

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

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