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JAMMU: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today inaugurated a three-day painting exhibition titled “The Meanderings” by Pradeep Wahule (IFS, Conservator of Forests) at Kala Kendra Jammu.

Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Department of Culture, J&K, was the Special Guest on the occasion. Sarvesh Rai, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests; Harvinder Kour , Secretary JKAACL and  Dr. Javaid Rahi, Secretary, Kala Kendra Jammu, were part of the presidium during the inaugural programme.

The event was organized by Kala Kendra Jammu under the aegis of the Department of Culture and witnessed participation from artists, writers, poets, and officers of the Department.

In his address, Atal Dulloo appreciated the artistic depth of Pradeep Wahule’s work, observing that his paintings make a significant contribution to environmental awareness and foster a deep emotional connection with nature.

 He emphasized the need for cultural institutions to actively engage younger generations with their age-old culture and heritage. He further stated that Kala Kendra would be provided full assistance to develop into a vibrant institution of J&K’s cultural landscape. He also appreciated the administration of the Kendra for transforming the institution into a centre of art and cultural activities.

While making his address Brij Mohan Sharma remarked that while he has known Pradeep Wahule as an efficient officer, his high-quality artworks left a lasting impression, adding that such creativity deserves national recognition. He further noted that efforts are underway to fully utilize all the galleries of Kala Kendra for the purposes they were originally envisioned.

Welcoming the guests, Javaid Rahi stated that the primary objective of the exhibition is to provide a platform for artists of Jammu & Kashmir to interact and engage with contemporary art through the works of Pradeep Wahule. He informed that around 40 artworks are on display at the Master Sansar Chand Gallery of Kala Kendra.

Speaking on the occasion, Pradeep Wahule (artist) reflected on his three-decade-long journey in the field of art. He stated that he is a self-trained artist and developed a deep interest in fine arts from an early age, drawing inspiration from nature and the works of great masters.

Rashmi Rao, who curated the exhibition, shared that this is the sixth State/UT where she is managing the display of the show. She expressed hope that art lovers and the general public will visit Kala Kendra during the three-day exhibition. Kusam Ticko conducted the programme. The exhibition will remain open to the public for three days.

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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