JAMMU: The Department of Botany, Central University of Jammu, organized an Orientation Programme for the newly admitted students of the B.Sc. and M.Sc. programme on Friday, 22nd August 2025. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty members and students of the Department. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Sunil Dhar, Dean, School of Life Sciences while welcoming the students, said that the NEP 2020-based curriculum followed in the University would help them in developing not just academic but also life skills.

Dr. Yogesh Kumar, Head, Department of Botany urged the students to reach the peak of the data, information, knowledge and wisdom pyramid, and become wise and responsible citizens. He emphasized on cultivating an attitude of identifying and solving real life problems as science students. Prof. B. S. Bhau said that Botany is not just a science but a passion, understanding of which is paramount to human survival. He encouraged the students to become exemplary ambassadors of the Department.

The programme commenced with an introduction delivered by Mr. Ayush Mehta, President of Eutierria, The Botanical Society of the Department. The orientation aimed to provide the newcomers with a comprehensive understanding of both academic and extracurricular life at the university. Ms. Palak from Semester 9th spoke about the SAMARTH portal and MOODLE LMS. Ms. Shrowti from the 5th semester acquainted the students with online learning platforms and their benefits.

Ms. Akanksha from the 9th semester elaborated on the examination pattern of the University. Ms. Afsana highlighted the vibrancy of Sports Week. Ms. Nandini, who conducted the programme also spoke about UDAAN, the annual cultural fest. Ms. Matoshree, an NCC cadet, encouraged participation in the National Cadet Corps by sharing her experiences. Ms. Anshika enthused the audience with visuals of events conducted by Eutierria.

The programme was a coordinated effort of all faculty, including Dr. Samantha Vaishnavi , Dr. VikasSrivastava, Dr. Ashok Kumar and Dr. Sapna Devi, and the student team, Akarshit, Sunit, Kritika, Anmol, Rahul, Manasvi, Shreyak and Shivangi.

Earlier in the day, an insightful Guest Lecture was delivered by Prof. Gautam Gupta, Professor at the University of Louisville, USA, on the theme “The Adventure of Discovery: Why Science Matters.” Prof. Gupta, shared his expertise in the area of energy sustainability. His research focuses on silica-based gels for biomolecule storage,catalysis, water splitting, and fuel cells.Having published extensively in globally reputed journals.

Prof. Gupta, in his lecture, shared his inspiring research journey, and highlighted some of the innovative products he has developed, including Oxy-Cart, a portable oxygen cylinder. He also emphasized the importance of curiosity, innovation, and scientific responsibility in addressing the challenges of the modern world. The event successfully combined intellectual enrichment with a warm welcome for the new students, leaving them motivated to begin their academic journey with confidence and enthusiasm.

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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