GANDERBAL Central University of Kashmir (CUK), in collaboration with the Range Police Headquarters, Srinagar, organized a one-day national seminar on “Strong Leadership in Modern India – Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Legacy” at Tulmulla on Thursday. The seminar was organised to celebrate the legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, popularly hailed as the “Iron Man of India.”

In his welcome address, Prof. Syed Zahoor Ahmad Geelani, Dean, School of Education stressed the need to re-engage with the legacy of Sardar Patel, emphasizing the relevance of his ethical leadership and administrative vision in contemporary governance and education.

In his address, Mr. Pir Zahoor Ahmad, JKPS, Staff Officer to DIG CKR, underscored the need for strong, principled leadership in a democratic setup. Drawing from his vast experience in policing, Mr. Ahmad linked Patel’s decisive leadership style to the core values of law enforcement and governance. He applauded the students for their insightful presentations and reminded them of the critical role they play in shaping the nation’s future.

Addressing the participants, Prof. Sandhiya Tiwari, Dean, School of Languages and International Affairs, and Chairperson, ICC, offered a spiritually uplifting narrative by connecting Patel’s legacy with the ethos of “Viksit Bharat” and Guru Purnima. She described leadership as a deeply human endeavour that must embody emotional intelligence, inclusivity, and social awareness. “Leadership must not only be visionary but also spiritually aware,” she emphasized.

Prof. Farooq Ahmad Mir, Dean, School of Legal Studies and Chief Proctor, delivered a scholarly exposition on Patel’s life, revisiting historic moments such as the integration of Hyderabad and Junagadh into the Indian Union. He highlighted the unique leadership bond between Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel, celebrating their shared dream of a unified and self-reliant India. Prof. Mir urged students to look beyond academic success and become agents of ethical governance and societal well-being.

A student speech competition, featuring 11 participants from various departments, who eloquently articulated Patel’s role in uniting over 560 princely states, his commitment to national integration, and his vision for a robust civil service. Wani Tamana won the first prize with a cash award of Rs 2000, Ahmad Mujtaba secured second with Rs 1500, and Shivam Kumar bagged third place with Rs 1000. All participants received certificates of appreciation for their effort and engagement. The jury comprised—Dr. Ishrat Bashir, Dr. Rehana Shawl, and Dr. Mudasir Ahmad Bhat.

Proposing the vote of thanks, Prof. Irfan Aalam, Dean Students Welfare, described the seminar as a model for future partnerships between academic institutions and public service agencies. The event was coordinated by Dr. Mangalsingh S. Bisen (Co-coordinator) and Dr. Firdous Ahmad Sofal (Moderator).

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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