JAMMU: A 10-day Skill Up-gradation and Designing Workshop for Traditional Potters, organized by the Indian National Trust for Art & Cultural Heritage (INTACH), Jammu Chapter, in collaboration with Blue River Ceramics, concluded successfully here today.

The workshop, which ran from February 16 to 25, focused on enhancing traditional pottery techniques while introducing contemporary design sensibilities. Participants received specialized training in terracotta pottery, surface treatments, glazing techniques, and firing processes. The beautifully crafted terracotta and glazed works produced by the artisans were highly appreciated by all attendees.

Mrs. Jyoti Gupta, Chief Resource Person and In-charge of Blue River Ceramic Studio, welcomed the guests and provided a detailed overview of the technical processes and production milestones achieved during the workshop.

The concluding ceremony was graced by Mrs. Vandana Bindu Manchanda, Head of the Heritage Crafts and Community Division (HCCD) at INTACH Delhi, who attended as the Chief Guest. Having traveled especially from Delhi for the event, she praised the superior quality of craftsmanship and the dedication of the artisans. She emphasized the critical need for preserving and modernizing traditional crafts through such dedicated initiatives.

S.M. Sahni, Convener of the INTACH Jammu Chapter, presented the vote of thanks. He highlighted INTACH’s ongoing mission to safeguard tangible and intangible cultural heritage and empower potters through design innovation. Adding to the accolades, Vandana Kumari, Sarpanch of Village Ladore, expressed her deep satisfaction and pride regarding the exceptional work created by the female participants from her village.

The event was attended by INTACH members, workshop participants, and prominent citizens and intellectuals of Jammu. They collectively lauded the efforts to blend age-old traditions with modern ceramic practices by Blue River Ceramics, a renowned studio with over 20 years of experience, in promoting ceramic arts. Blue River Ceramics was widely applauded for its structured training and significant contribution to artisan empowerment.

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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