JAMMU: The Department of History, University of Jammu, in collaboration with the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Regional Centre, Jammu & Kashmir, organised a special programme to commemorate the 196th Birth Anniversary of Rani Lakshmibai on the theme “Rani Lakshmibai: A Timeless Symbol of Women Empowerment.”

Professor Suman Jamwal, in her welcome address, reflected on the enduring legacy of Rani Lakshmibai as a symbol of courage, leadership, and women’s empowerment. She emphasised that Lakshmibai’s resistance to colonial rule marked a defining moment in India’s freedom struggle and continues to inspire contemporary discussions on gender equity and national identity. Prof. Jamwal urged students to view Lakshmibai not only as a legendary warrior but also as a visionary leader whose life exemplifies resilience, dignity, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Her remarks set an inspiring tone for the programme.

Following her remarks, she formally welcomed the distinguished speakers, Prof. Dushyant Kumar Rai, Department of Media & Journalism, University of Jammu, and Ms. Shruti Awasthi, Director, IGNCA, Regional Centre, Jammu & Kashmir.

Prof. Dushyant Kumar Rai delivered an insightful lecture highlighting Rani Lakshmibai’s contribution to India’s resistance tradition and her lasting impact on discourses related to women’s empowerment. He drew compelling comparisons, supported by cinematic examples and cultural narratives, to illustrate the evolving representation of empowered women in modern India. Prof. Rai also engaged with students on the multifaceted dimensions of women’s agency and empowerment.

In her address, Ms. Shruti Awasthi emphasised the importance of indigenous historical perspectives, oral traditions, and cultural memory in understanding the role of women in India’s civilizational heritage. She underscored the need to integrate local histories and vernacular traditions into contemporary academic discourse.

The programme was attended by faculty members, research scholars, and students from the University of Jammu. The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Sh. Suman Kumar Verma, who expressed gratitude to the speakers, collaborators, and participants for their meaningful contribution to the 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
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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