KATRA: A one-day workshop on "Innovation and Prototype Validation," focused on converting innovation into a startup, was held at SMVDU under the Institute Innovation Council and Board of Professional Activities, SMVDU.

The session, designed for B. Design, B. Arch., Mechanical, and Civil Engineering students, covered critical aspects such as achieving “Value Proposition Fit” and “Business Fit.” The event was coordinated jointly by Dr. Mir Irfan Ul Haq and Dr. Ankush Raina, Assistant Professors at SME. 

The workshop featured Prof. Sumer Singh, Associate Professor, Department of Design, IIT Delhi, as the guest speaker. During the session on “Design Innovate: from Vision to Venture”, Prof. Sumer Singh shared insights into successful startups and various aspects of design, job opportunities, and the importance of a collaborative approach across disciplines.

He emphasized the need for interdisciplinary cooperation in driving innovation forward. Apart from showcasing various case studies the speaker also motivated the students to take up problems of societal benefits particularly in the areas of agriculture, horticulture and tourism.

The event ended with a Q&A.  Prof. Balbir Singh, Dean Academics Affairs SMVDU, felicitated the guest speaker, while Dr. Sanjeev Anand (Associate Dean Research and Development), Dr. Sanjay Mohan (CEO, TBIC), Dr. Sanjay Sharma (Assistant professor, SoCSE) and other faculty members were present during the event.

Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice Chancellor of SMVDU, conveyed his best wishes to the participants and reiterated the university's commitment to nurturing startups and creating an environment conducive to design-driven innovation.

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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