JAMMU: The Gujjar–Bakarwal Tribal Academic Forum, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), organized a meaningful seminar titled “Reclaiming Voices: Life, Literature and Legacy of Fateh Ali Sarwari Kasana” on the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas. The event brought together scholars, writers, and bureaucrats to reflect upon the literary contribution, grassroot activism, and enduring legacy of the noted tribal scholar, poet, journalist and social reformer, Fateh Ali Sarwari Kasana.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Nasib Ali Choudhary, Assistant Professor, JNU, who highlighted the significance of commemorating tribal icons and emphasized the need for academic platforms to amplify marginalized voices.

The seminar featured insightful presentations from a distinguished panel of speakers including Dr. Anil Kumar Singh, Assistant Professor, JNU; Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmed Shauq (JKAS); and Advocate Anwar Choudhary. Each speaker discussed various dimensions of Sarwari Kasana’s contributions ranging from his commitment to tribal rights to his pioneering work in journalism.

The keynote address was delivered by Hasan Parwaz Choudhary, who offered an in-depth exploration of Sarwari Kasana’s life, literary achievements, and his transformative role as a community advocate. He underscored Sarwari Kasana’s dedication to uplifting the tribal community of Jammu and Kashmir through education, cultural preservation, and social awareness. He strongly advocated for communal harmony and National Integration.

A poignant and personal touch was added by Ms. Zarina Naghmi Kasana, daughter of the late Sarwari Kasana. In her address, she shed light on her father’s lifelong struggle, his unwavering resolve and the sacrifices he made for the advancement and dignity of the tribal people of the region. She also added that her late father was known as Martin Luther King of Gujjar Bakarwal community of Jammu and Kashmir.

The event was graced by Special Guest, Shri Baseer-ul-Haq Choudhary, IAS, who appreciated the organizers for bringing much-needed academic focus to the legacy of tribal scholars, leaders and emphasized the importance of documenting their contributions for future generations.

The seminar concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Malkhan Singh, Senior Assistant Professor, JNU, who expressed gratitude to the speakers, dignitaries, participants and the organizing committee for making the event a success. The programme marked an important step towards recognizing and celebrating the intellectual and cultural heritage of tribal communities while reaffirming the enduring legacy of Fateh Ali Sarwari Kasana.

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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