AWANTIPORA: The Biodiversity Park, in collaboration with the Department of Environment, Sustainability and Climate Change (DESCC) and Alpine Club, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), celebrated the International Day for Biological Diversity 2026 at Campus-II under the global theme “Acting Locally for Global Impact.”

The programme was inaugurated by Prof. Shamim Ahmad Shah, Registrar, IUST, as the Chief Guest. In his address, the Registrar emphasized the importance of biodiversity conservation in maintaining ecological balance and ensuring sustainable development. He appreciated the initiatives taken by the Biodiversity Park and DESCC for organizing awareness-driven activities aimed at encouraging environmental responsibility among students and society. He further highlighted the need for collective efforts and local action to address global environmental challenges, including biodiversity loss and climate change.

Welcoming the participants, Dr. Dharam Chand, Coordinator, Biodiversity Park, highlighted the significance of observing the International Day for Biological Diversity and stressed the urgent need to conserve biological resources for future generations. He also spoke about the role of educational institutions in fostering environmental consciousness and sustainable practices among youth.

As part of the celebrations, plantation and cleanliness drives were conducted within the Campus-II premises to promote environmental stewardship and encourage community participation in maintaining a clean and green environment. The programme was attended by university officials, faculty members, research scholars, students, and non-teaching staff. The event proceedings were moderated by Dr. Sumira Nazir Zaz, Coordinator, DESCC, and Dr. Yasir Altaf, Assistant Professor, DESCC. The programme was partly sponsored by Jammu & Kashmir Bank. Dr. Farooq Hussain Bhat, Dean, School of Sciences, presented the vote of thanks and appreciated the participants and students for their active support in making the event meaningful.

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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