AWANTIPORA: Minister for Agriculture Production Department, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar inaugurated two day National level Seminar on “Scientific Honey Beekeeping Integrated with Oilseed Mission” today at Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) here.

The Minister, who was Chief Guest on the occasion, appreciated IUST’s initiatives in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly through programs that link science and technology to socio-economic development. He emphasized on economic and ecological importance of beekeeping in enhancing agricultural productivity, biodiversity conservation and improving rural livelihoods

The Minister also visited the i-Factory Lab, Design and Development Lab, Fab Lab, and Ultratech Cement Lab. He assured Government’s full support to the University’s innovation-led initiatives aimed at advancing agri-tech development.

Vice Chancellor, IUST, Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, in his address highlighted IUST’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem and reiterated the university’s commitment to translating ideas into impactful solutions. He noted that the region’s rich biodiversity and favourable climate provide ideal conditions for high-quality honey production, making beekeeping a high-value livelihood with strong potential for export-oriented MSME growth.

Professor at the Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology (SLIET), Punjab, Prof. Vikas Nanda spoke about recent advances in apiculture research and how technological interventions can improve honey quality and production efficiency.

Founder and CEO of the Academy for Global Business Advancement (AGBA), Washington D.C, Prof. Zafar U. Ahmad stressed the need for branding, quality enhancement, and international promotion of Kashmiri honey to make it a globally recognized product. Dean Academic Affairs, IUST, Prof. A. H. Moon, appreciated the relevance of the seminar in linking research with practice.

Earlier, in his welcome address, CEO, CIED-IUST Foundation, Prof. Parvez A. Mir highlighted the activities of the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (CIED) and its role in promoting skill-based and sustainable enterprises.

The event sponsored by Ni-MSME Hyderabad brings together experts, policymakers, researchers and entrepreneurs to explore the scientific, economic and entrepreneurial dimensions of apiculture and its integration with the National Oilseed Mission.

Registrar, Prof. Abdul Wahid Makhdoomi; Deans, Directors, faculty members, and students of IUST, as well as a large number of beekeepers from different districts of Kashmir were also present on the occasion.

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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