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

JAMMU: The Skill Incubation, Innovation & Entrepreneurship Development Centre (SIIEDC), University of Jammu, organized a two-day workshop titled “From Idea to Impact: Creativity as a Career Skill” on 24th–25th November 2025 for the students of the Design Your Degree Programme. The workshop aimed to enhance creative thinking, communication skills, and entrepreneurial awareness through expert-led sessions and hands-on activities. The programme began with a warm welcome address by Prof. Alka Sharma, Director, SIIEDC, setting an encouraging tone for the two-day event.

The first day featured insightful and engaging sessions delivered by Padma Shri Prof. Lalit Mangotra, who spoke on creativity rooted in cultural identity, followed by Dr. Rakesh Sharma from IMFA, University of Jammu, who discussed visual arts and colour psychology. The day concluded with an enriching session on structured storytelling and creative writing by Dr. Neena Gupta Vij from the Central University of Jammu.

The second day brought a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital creativity. Mr. Zahid and Ms. Shiwani from JKEDI introduced students to startup development, skill-based learning, and digital ideation through interactive exercises. This was followed by a dynamic session on digital promotion by RJ Sarang of Red FM. Later, Mr. Ashok Sharma guided students on understanding creative writing as a profession, and the final session was led by Dr. Pankaj, who engaged participants in innovative communication techniques through practical activities.

The event concluded with final remarks from Mr. Syed Ahfadul Mujtaba, retired IPS officer and former JKPSC Member, who appreciated the initiative and motivated the students to strengthen creativity as a meaningful professional asset. A formal vote of thanks was presented by Prof. Sadaf Shah, Associate Director, SIIEDC, acknowledging the contributions of all resource persons, organizers, and participants. The proceedings of the two-day workshop were conducted by Dr. Sana Farooq Lone, Mentor of Expressing Creativity under the Design Your Degree Programme.

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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