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GANDERBAL: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Kashmir (SKUAST-K) on Tuesday commenced a three-day training program on "Drone Technology and Data Capturing for Natural Resource Management" at the Faculty of Forestry, Benhama, Ganderbal. 

The program, organized in collaboration with the Erasmus+ funded ENTER (Environmental Open Data for Engaging Curricula and Research Training) Project, aims to equip undergraduate students with both theoretical understanding and practical skills in drone-based applications for natural resource management.

The initiative has been organized in line with the vision of Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, who has consistently championed the integration of emerging technologies into agricultural education to prepare students with future-ready skills. His emphasis on experiential learning, innovation, and technology-enabled education continues to strengthen SKUAST-K's academic and research ecosystem.

Inaugurating the program, Prof. A. H. Mughal, Dean, Faculty of Forestry, underscored the growing role of drone technology in sustainable natural resource management. He described drones as transformative tools for forestry, precision agriculture, disaster assessment, and environmental monitoring, and encouraged students to build expertise in this rapidly evolving field, highlighting its immense potential for innovation, employment, and entrepreneurship.

As part of the technical sessions, Dr. Akhlaq Amin Wani, Professor and Head, Division of Natural Resource Management, and Coordinator of the program, delivered lectures on "Emerging Technologies in Natural Resource Management" and "Drone Technology and its Applications in Natural Resource Management," introducing students to the latest technological advancements transforming the sector.

The three-day program features dedicated demonstration sessions for undergraduate students, covering drone components, operational protocols, flight planning, and aerial data acquisition. Participants will also witness live drone demonstrations and receive hands-on training, enabling them to operate drones under expert supervision and gain practical experience with this emerging technology.

The program reflects SKUAST-K's continued commitment to technology-driven education and capacity building by exposing students to advanced tools that are increasingly shaping the future of agriculture, forestry, and natural resource management.

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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