SRINAGAR: The National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI), Chandigarh Extended Region Chapter, in collaboration with the Department of Physics, National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, and Society for the Promotion of Science and Technology in India, on Thursday, organized an inspiring Special Lecture Series at NIT Srinagar.

The programme saw enthusiastic participation from 140 students, scholars, and faculty from various institutions in Valley. The event was aimed to ignite scientific curiosity and encourage young minds to explore research-driven careers.

The session began with a formal welcome address by Prof. Prince Ahmad Ganai, Head, Department of Physics, who highlighted the significance of such academic interactions in bridging the gap between foundational knowledge and advanced research. He emphasized the importance of mentorship and exposure in shaping the scientific temperament of students.

Prof. Ravinder Kumar Kohli delivered the first lecture on the topic “Why and How to Pursue Research as a Career?” A distinguished academician and ecologist, Prof. Kohli is a JC Bose National Fellow and serves as Chairman of the NASI Chandigarh Extended Region Chapter. Having been ranked among the top 2% of scientists worldwide for the past six years, he brought immense depth and credibility to the session.

He has held key leadership positions as former Vice Chancellor of Amity University Punjab, Central University of Punjab, and DAV University Jalandhar, besides serving as DUI at Panjab University Chandigarh. In his lecture, he emphasized the vast research potential in India and urged students to align their curiosity with national and global scientific needs.

He also highlighted that persistence, originality, and interdisciplinary thinking are essential traits for building a successful research career. The second lecture was delivered by Prof. K. K. Bhasin on “Exploring Fascinating Aspects of Chemistry.” Prof. Bhasin, a renowned chemist, enriched the session with his deep understanding of chemical sciences and its real-world applications.

He explained how chemistry plays a pivotal role in everyday life and remains central to solving major global challenges such as climate change, healthcare innovation, and sustainable development. Through engaging examples and simplified explanations, he made complex concepts accessible to students, encouraging them to appreciate the subject beyond textbooks and consider research opportunities in chemical sciences.

In his message, Director NIT Srinagar Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, NIT Srinagar, appreciated the initiative and said that interactions with eminent scientists are vital for nurturing innovation and scientific thinking among students. Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman said such lecture series inspire students to pursue research and academic excellence.

He appreciated the organisers for providing a valuable platform for learning and interaction. Prof. (Dr.) Zafar Ahmad Reshi from University of Kashmir and Prof Kowsar Majid, a senior faculty member at Department of Chemistry, NIT Srinagar, also graced the occasion. Dr. Vijay Kumar was the Coordinator of the programme and delivered a talk on “Sustainable Development with Hydrogels: Multifunctional Materials for Environmental, Agricultural and Biomedical Applications.”

He stressed the importance of collaborative learning, global academic engagement, and fostering a research-oriented mindset among youth to meet future challenges. Dean Alumni and International Affairs, Prof. M. A. Shah, expressed gratitude to the distinguished speakers for sharing their valuable insights. He said such lecture series are the need of the hour, as they expose students to cutting-edge research and inspire them to think beyond textbooks.

The event concluded with a felicitation ceremony, where participants from Government Higher Secondary School Soura, students from Shopian, Islamia College, and NIT Srinagar were honoured by the organisers for their active participation.

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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