POONCH: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana today praised and acknowledged the services of Maulana Ghulam Qadir Banday, a towering figure of Pir Panjal region who contributed immensely in  socio-educational reforms.

Addressing a distinguished gathering of civil society members, educationists and religious scholars at the Jamia Zia Ul Uloom Group of Institutions in Poonch, the Minister described Maulana Banday as a visionary reformer and spiritual guide whose transformative contributions to education have left an indelible mark on generations.

“Maulana Ghulam Qadir Banday Sahib is not just a religious scholar; he is the Sir Syed Ahmad Khan of Pir Panjal,” said Rana, invoking the revered 19th-century Indian reformer.

Rana said that Maulana Banday foresaw the need for harmonizing Islamic learning with modern education. He added that his initiatives lit the lamp of knowledge in a region once gripped by isolation and educational backwardness.

“His commitment to girls’ education, at a time when it was often neglected, demonstrated his progressive ideals and a deep understanding of societal reform. His efforts empowered not just individuals, but families and communities,” Rana stated.

The Minister further said that the Jamia Zia Ul Uloom, founded by Maulana Banday, has over the years emerged as a beacon of learning in the Pir Panjal region. He added that under his guidance, the institute produced scholars, civil servants, teachers and professionals who continue to contribute meaningfully in diverse spheres across Jammu & Kashmir and beyond.

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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