JAMMU: Principal Secretary, Culture and School Education, Suresh Kumar Gupta and Secretary, Rural Development Department, Mohammad Aijaz,  jointly inaugurated a Tribal Art workshop at the GR Santosh Gallery, Kala Kendra, Jammu. The workshop was a collaborative effort of the Kala Kendra Society, Jammu and the Department of Painting, Institute of Music and Fine Arts (IMFA), University of Jammu.

Speaking on the occasion, Suresh Kumar Gupta emphasized the need for artists, painters, and sculptors to explore indigenous art forms and promote tribal culture through their creative works. He lauded the enthusiasm of the participants for engaging with themes related to tribal life and heritage. Mohammad Aijaz highlighted the role of art in tribal and rural development. He urged officers from the Rural Development Department to integrate local artists into the Rural Livelihood Mission and guide rural women in adding creative dimensions to their traditional arts.

Dr. Javaid Rahi, Secretary of Kala Kendra Society, informed that the event saw participation from 30 Fine Arts students. The workshop aimed to inspire the young generation  to focus on Tribal Art alongside other contemporary forms. Renowned artist Madhusudan Das from Delhi was invited to train the participants in the nuances of Tribal Art.

Dr. Milan Sharma, Head of the Painting Department, IMFA, shared that the workshop showcased 30 unique artworks focusing on Tribal Art. She noted that this initiative has offered the students a deeper understanding of Tribal Art, fulfilling a critical gap in their academic and creative journeys. Madhusudan Das, the visiting expert, appreciated the rich tribal art traditions of Jammu and Kashmir, which he believes need greater recognition. He expressed his commitment towards popularising the Tribal Art among the younger generation across India.

The workshop was coordinated by IMFA faculty members Rachita Dutta and Ankush Kesar. Rohit Verma, Sukhjeet Singh and Anish Tickoo stated that this  workshop will help in conceptualising  new dimensions towards Tribal Art.  They, in their separate  lectures, remarked that the workshop's practical approach has allowed the students to explore the vibrant imagery, colours and stories inherent in Tribal Art, paving the way for a new creative language in their works.

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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