AWANTIPORA: The Department of Environment, Sustainability, and Climate Change (DESCC), Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), in collaboration with RCFC-II, SKUAST-Kashmir, organized a one-day seminar on Conservation, Cultivation, Processing, and Entrepreneurship in Medicinal Plants. The event focused on sustainable management, entrepreneurial potential, and livelihood opportunities, with a special emphasis on students, particularly female students.

Prof. Sheikh Bilal Ahmed, Regional Director, RCFC NR-II, Govt. of India and chief guest of the seminar, emphasized the urgent need to conserve medicinal plant biodiversity and integrate traditional knowledge with modern scientific advancements to promote sustainability in the herbal sector.

Dr. Shakir Sultan Scientist, CSIR-IIIM, Srinagar, an invited speaker from the Indian Institute of Integrated Medicine (IIIM), provided valuable insights into the bioactive compounds of medicinal plants and their commercial applications, underscoring the importance of scientific research and value addition in promoting the medicinal plant industry.

Prof. Parvez Ahmed Mir, Director, Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (CIED), IUST, delivered a special address, highlighting entrepreneurial opportunities in the MAP sector and the role of industry-academia collaboration in fostering innovation and commercialization of medicinal plant-based products.

Prof. Humayun Rashid, Professor of Practice, and Dr. Aabid Hussain Shalla, Dean, School of Sciences, IUST, interacted with participants and underscored the need for capacity building in medicinal plant biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihoods, urging young researchers and entrepreneurs to explore the vast potential of the medicinal plant sector.

Earlier, welcoming the participants, Dr. Dharam Chand, Organizing Secretary of the seminar and Coordinator, Biodiversity and Aroma Park, IUST, stressed the importance of the sustainable utilization and conservation of medicinal plants in Jammu & Kashmir. Dr. Sumira Nazir Zaz, Coordinator, Department of Environment, Sustainability, and Climate Change, & Member, Women Entrepreneurship Development Cell, proposed the vote of thanks. The seminar was moderated by Dr. Yasir Altaf, Assistant Professor, Department of ESCC.

The seminar saw overwhelming participation from students, researchers, and faculty members, engaging in discussions on advanced cultivation techniques, conservation strategies, value addition, and policy frameworks supporting medicinal plant-based entrepreneurship.

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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