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

JAMMU: The Department of English, University of Jammu, in collaboration with the Prof. D. K. Rampal Memorial Trust, organized the D. K. Rampal Memorial Lecture titled Language as Discourse: Decoding Complex Contours of Literary Representation today. The event sought to honour the scholarly legacy of Prof. D. K. Rampal while fostering critical dialogue on contemporary theoretical engagements with language, ideology, and discourse.

Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies, University of Jammu graced the occasion as Chief Guest and Prof. Roshan Lal Sharma, Head, Department of English, and Dean, Languages, Central University of Himachal Pradesh delivered the keynote address.

Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, in her address, highlighted Professor Rampal’s significant contributions as a scholar, administrator, and institution-builder whose work continues to guide the University’s academic ethos. She noted that strong and principled leadership shapes vibrant institutions and emphasised the need for universities to foster personalities who combine conviction, discipline, and a commitment to meaningful service. Underscoring that all disciplines ultimately work toward the betterment of society, she encouraged students to pursue their goals with integrity, remain connected to their larger purpose, and contribute positively to the world around them.

The lecture was delivered by Prof. Roshan Lal Sharma, Head, Department of English, and Dean, Languages, Central University of Himachal Pradesh. Speaking on the theme Language as Discourse, he offered a nuanced exploration of how language, ideology, and discourse interlock to shape human consciousness and social reality. Drawing on contemporary theoretical frameworks, he posited that discourse functions not merely as linguistic expression but as a complex system through which knowledge, meaning, and power relations are produced, circulated, and contested. His lecture foregrounded the pivotal role of discourse in structuring interpretive practices and influencing socio-cultural behaviour. The address concluded with an intellectually stimulating interactive session, wherein faculty, scholars, and students engaged with the speaker’s insights through probing questions.

An exposition was then presented by Prof. R. D. Sharma on the genesis and vision of the Prof. D. K. Rampal Memorial Trust, highlighting its continued commitment to sustaining Prof. Rampal’s values by encouraging academic excellence through such initiatives.

Earlier, Prof. Ravinder Singh, Head, Department of English, University of Jammu, formally welcomed the gathering and extended warm greetings to the distinguished dignitaries. The proceedings were moderated by Dr. Pallavi Gupta and Dr. Simrajyot Kour, Assistant Professors, Department of English, University of Jammu. The formal Vote of Thanks was presented by Prof. Monika Chaddha.

The event witnessed the presence of eminent academicians and distinguished members of civil society, including Prof. Satnam Kour, Former Head, Department of English, University of Jammu; Prof. Vinay Chauhan, Director, The Business School, University of Jammu; Prof. Garima Gupta, Professor (English) and Head, Department of Journalism, University of Jammu; Dr. Shubhnandan Singh Jamwal; Dr. Vinay Rampal, renowned physician; and Dr. Hari Dutt Sharma.

The programme drew substantial participation from research scholars and students of the Department of English, as well as from various other departments across the University, reflecting the interdisciplinary resonance of the theme.

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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