JAMMU: A two day international seminar titled “Jagan Nath Azad ki Iqbal Shanasi” commenced at the University of Jammu, highlighting the literary contributions of Professor Jagan Nath Azad, a stalwart of Urdu literature. The event, being organised by the Department of Urdu in collaboration with the Himalayan Trust, brought together luminaries from the world of Urdu literature.

Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Kumar Choudhary, inaugurated the session while Professor Umesh Rai, Vice-Chancellor of University of Jammu, presided over the event. The seminar focused on Azad’s deep engagement with Iqbal’s poetry and his efforts towards promotion of Urdu literature across cultural and national boundaries.

In his address, the Deputy CM lauded Professor Azad’s legacy as a scholar who bridged divides through his profound works. He remarked, “Professor Azad’s roots in Jammu and his literary career at this university has left an indelible mark on the global appreciation of Urdu literature.”

Choudhary emphasised the role of poets in fostering communal harmony, citing Iqbal’s verses “Sare jahan se achha, hindustan hamara” as emblematic of a secular ethos. He also referenced Guru Nanak’s lines “Ek noor se sab jag upjeya” to underline the universality of Indian thought.

Several distinguished individuals were honoured during the seminar. Dr Qudoos Javed, Dr TR Raina and Prof Asadullah Wani received Lifetime Achievement Awards, while Prof Shohab Malik, Head of the Urdu Department, was presented with the Faqr-e-Urdu Award. Other notable awardees included Dr Taki Abdi, Khwaja Ikramuddin and JKAS officer Akhtar Qazi. The seminar also featured the release of several books on Urdu literature.

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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