AWANTIPORA: The Department of Food Technology, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), organised a lecture-cum-interaction session on “Microplastics in Food and Environment: Occurrence, Analytical Challenges and Emerging Research Perspectives”. The programme brought together experts from academia, industry, and research institutions to deliberate on the emerging challenge of microplastic contamination and its implications for food safety, environmental sustainability, and public health.

The keynote lecture was delivered by Mr Saurabh Jain, Application Expert, PerkinElmer India, who provided an in-depth overview of the occurrence of microplastics in food and environmental matrices, recent advancements in analytical techniques for their detection and quantification, and the challenges faced by researchers and regulatory agencies in addressing this growing concern.

The programme was attended by Mr. Jitendra Sikarwar, Country Head, PerkinElmer India, and Mr. Rohit Jaswal, Regional Manager (North India), PerkinElmer India. Distinguished participants also included Dr. Mohammad Younus from the Regional Research Institute of Unani Medicine (RRIUM), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, and Dr. Khalid Gani from NIT Srinagar. Faculty members, research scholars, and students from the Department of Food Technology, Department of Environment, Sustainability and Climate Change, and other academic units of the university actively participated in the session. The event was also graced by the Head, Department of Food Technology; & the Head, Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine. 

During the deliberations, speakers emphasized that microplastics have emerged as a global environmental and food safety concern, affecting diverse sectors including agriculture, food processing, water resources, ecosystems, and human health. The participants discussed the need for interdisciplinary research and advanced analytical tools to better understand the extent and impact of microplastic contamination.

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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