KATRA: Two students from the School of Biotechnology, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), have been selected for the prestigious IAS-INSA-NASI Summer Research Fellowship Programme (SRFP) 2026, bringing laurels to the university and highlighting its growing emphasis on research and academic excellence. Ms. Anindya Mishra, a second-year B.Tech Biotechnology student (Batch 2024–2028), has been selected to undertake her fellowship training under the guidance of Dr. Anshu Bhardwaj at the Institute of Microbial Technology (IMTech), Chandigarh. During the fellowship, she will gain valuable research experience by working on cutting-edge scientific problems in a premier national research institution.

In another significant achievement, Ms. Mehak Kundal, a first-year M.Sc. Biotechnology student (Batch 2025–2027), has been selected to carry out her summer research training under the mentorship of Dr. Bibin G. Anand at the S.R.M. Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai.The Summer Research Fellowship Programme is jointly administered by India’s three premier scientific academies—the Indian Academy of Sciences (IASc), Bengaluru, the Indian National Science Academy (INSA), New Delhi, and The National Academy of Sciences,India (NASI), Prayagraj. The programme is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious and competitive research fellowship opportunities available to undergraduate and postgraduate students in the country.

Through this fellowship, selected students are provided an opportunity to work closely with eminent scientists and researchers at leading research institutions across India, thereby gaining exposure to advanced scientific research methodologies and contemporary developments in their respective fields.Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, congratulated both students on their remarkable achievement and conveyed his best wishes for their successful research training. Faculty members and students of the School of Biotechnology also extended their congratulations and expressed confidence that the fellowship experience would further strengthen the students’ research capabilities and academic growth.

This accomplishment reflects the university’s sustained commitment to fostering academic excellence, scientific inquiry, and innovation-driven learning. It also underscores the growing research culture within the School of Biotechnology and its efforts to encourage students to engage in high-quality research at national centres of excellence.

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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