SRINAGAR: A comprehensive two-week Entrepreneurship Awareness Program, designed to ignite entrepreneurial spirit and technological skills among Ladakh's youth, concluded successfully on Wednesday. The program reached over 700 students, connecting them with vital resources and opportunities in the technology sector.

Organized by the Department of Mechanical Engineering at NIT Srinagar, in collaboration with NIELIT Leh and the University of Ladakh, the workshop was sponsored by the Ministry of MSME, Government of India. The valedictory session was graced by Dr. Phuntsog Toldhan, Director of NIELIT Ladakh.  Prof. Binod Kanaujia , Director NIT Srinagar, served as the Chief Patron for the event.

The program focused on equipping participants with practical skills in high-demand areas, including high-altitude drone piloting, 3D printing, laser engraving, UV printing, IoT, solar energy, robotics, and automation. "This program marks the beginning of a sustained effort by NIT Srinagar to cultivate a technology-driven culture in Ladakh," stated Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, Nodal Officer of the MSME ESDP Scheme, who highlighted the region's vast potential and the government's commitment to supporting aspiring entrepreneurs.

 "We aimed to bridge the gap in technical institutions and empower young individuals to leverage technology for their entrepreneurial ventures,” he said. Dr Dinesh also acknowledged the instrumental support of Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kanaujia, Registrar Prof. Atik-ur-Rehman, and Dean Research and Consultancy Prof. Roohie Naaz in making the program possible.

Dr. Toldhan said that there is importance of collaboration in fostering technology-based skill development. We are delighted to partner with NIT Srinagar and are exploring future collaborations, including a high-altitude drone competition, to further benefit the youth and entrepreneurs of Ladakh, he said. Mr. Mushtaq Ahmed, Technical Officer and NIELIT Coordinator, also provided support throughout the entire process.

Meanwhile Mr. Mohd Salim, a program coordinator, noted the overwhelming response, with over 2,000 students registered at their center.  "We hope this program will inspire more entrepreneurs, building upon the success of emerging ventures like Ladakh Electro Hub and Ladakh Paragliding Adventure, and contribute to the technological advancement of Ladakh," he said.

The program was convened by Dr. Phuntsog Toldhan and Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, with coordination support from Dr. Mehaboob of the University of Ladakh and Mr. Mohamad Salim of NIELIT Leh.

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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