AWANTIPORA: The Department of Architecture, Islamic University of Science and Technology hosted a programme on landscape design and the historic garden heritage of Kashmir, featuring Dr. Jan Haenraets, internationally renowned landscape architect, preservation specialist and Professor of the Practice at Boston University.

In his address, Dr. Haenraets shared insights from his extensive research on Kashmir's Mughal gardens, highlighting their historical evolution, cultural significance and enduring influence on landscape architecture. Drawing upon years of scholarly engagement with the region's garden traditions, he underscored the importance of preserving these historic landscapes as vital expressions of Kashmir's cultural and environmental heritage. He also discussed his forthcoming book, Kashmir's Mughal Landscape of Gardens, scheduled for publication in August 2026.

The session was moderated by Mr Mehran Qureshi and attended by the Head, Department of Architecture, Mr. Qazi Qamar Iqbal Qari, faculty members Mr. Umar Farooq, Dr. Gowhar Afzal, Ms. Sadiya Tariq and Ms. Tanzeel, besides Dr. Dharam Chand from the Department of Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change.

The interaction provided a valuable platform for discussing the challenges and opportunities associated with the conservation of historic landscapes in the context of contemporary environmental and developmental concerns. Students and faculty actively participated in the deliberations, engaging with themes of heritage preservation, sustainability and landscape planning.

The Department is actively engaged in fostering academic engagement with globally acclaimed scholars and enriching students' understanding of architecture, landscape design and heritage conservation through exposure to international perspectives and contemporary research.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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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