KATRA: NCC cadets from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) successfully participated in a 10-day Annual Training Camp (ATC) held at the NCC Training Academy, Udhampur, organized by the 6 J&K Battalion NCC. The camp aimed to instill discipline, leadership, and a spirit of national service among the cadets through a series of structured training and enrichment activities.

The cadets underwent rigorous physical training, drill sessions, trekking, firing practice, map reading, weapon training, and extensive instruction in field craft and battle craft. These exercises were designed to enhance physical endurance, coordination, and survival skills.In addition to physical activities, cadets participated in various life skill sessions including Shramdaan, and attended guest lectures delivered by distinguished experts on topics such as Cyber Security, Motivational Talks by Special Forces Officers, Communication Skills, Dining Etiquette and Table Manners, First Aid, Fire and Emergency Services, SSB Interview Preparation, Disaster Management, and National Integration.The training camp also featured field visits to enrich the cadets’ learning experience. These included jungle trekking, a visit to a firing range, Civil Defence lectures, and educational tours to a radio station, Army Aviation Unit, and an Army Field Workshop.

One of the major highlights of the camp was the cadets' participation in the International Yoga Day held at a Defence Area in Udhampur, where the Hon’ble Defence Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh, was the Chief Guest, accompanied by the Chief of Army Staff. Cadets had the honour of performing yoga alongside defence personnel and had the unique opportunity to interact with both dignitaries, making it a truly inspiring and unforgettable experience.

Dr. Varun Dutta, NCC Coordinator at SMVDU, also actively participated in the camp as Camp Duty Officer. He was appointed as the Camp Training Coordinator and was entrusted with the responsibility of planning and managing the training schedule for over 300 cadets from various institutions. His leadership played a vital role in the smooth execution of the camp activities.A number of competitions were conducted during the camp to test the cadets’ skills and team spirit. SMVDU cadets performed exceptionally well and secured medals and prizes in Poster Making, Tug of War, Volleyball, Kabaddi, Firing Competition, Drill Square Test, and Debate.

Their remarkable performance earned them appreciation and applause from the Commanding Officer of the NCC Battalion.On this proud occasion, Prof. Pragati Kumar, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, and Sh. Ajay Kumar Sharma, Registrar, SMVDU, extended their heartfelt congratulations to the cadets for their outstanding achievements. They also commended the NCC unit of SMVDU for its continuous efforts in guiding and nurturing cadets towards excellence and national service.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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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