AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) felicitated the winners of the Spot Essay Competition organised by the Dean of Students Office under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) on the spot topic, "My Role in a Drug-Free Society and Solutions to Drug Addiction.” 

During the ceremony, Prof. Shamim Ahmad Shah, Registrar, IUST, was the Chief Guest, who felicitated the awardees, appreciated their thoughtful contributions and creative instincts and reaffirmed the University's commitment to raising awareness against drug abuse. He emphasised the significance of youth leadership and the university’s commitment to promoting holistic student development, social responsibility, and active participation in nation-building through such initiatives. 

Earlier, Dr Monisa Qadri, Dean of Students, briefed on the initiatives undertaken by the Dean of Students Office, including this competition, which focused on solution-oriented and creative responses to social issues like the drug menace and student-centric activities. Dr Afroz Bisati, Chairperson of the Jury Committee and Dean School of Humanities and Social Sciences, also appreciated the ideas shared by the students, which reflect the serious involvement of the student community.

 

Aynain Wani, Asma Jan and Sajad Ahmad Bhat were adjudged as the top three winners of the competition, while Mohammad Haris Rafiqui, Salmana Noor Ain, Abdullah Amin Bazaz, and Nazakat Aslam were awarded the consolation certificates. On this occasion, students who excelled at Spectrum-2026, organised by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Srinagar, were also felicitated in recognition of their outstanding achievements during the festival. Former I/c Dean of Students Dr Asifa Baba was also felicitated in the ceremony. Also present on this occasion were Qazi Qamar Iqbal Qari Dean School of Architecture and Planning; Dr G.N Itoo, Director, Centre for Good Governance and Policy Analysis; Dr Asifa Baba, Director, Centre for Wellness and Mental Health; Dr Farhana Allaie, Coordinator, Cultural Affairs; and Umar Farooq Dar, Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture. The session was moderated by Ms Isma Hamid, Senior Assistant Professor, Department of English Language and Literature (EL&L).

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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