KATRA: In a significant achievement, a team of researchers from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) has been awarded a grant of ₹93 lakh for their research project titled "Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality Based Visualization for Lost / Endangered Architectural Heritage Sites in Jammu & Kashmir".

The project, submitted under the Science and Heritage Research Initiative (SHRI) Program of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, aims to harness the power of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to preserve and promote the rich architectural and cultural heritage of Jammu & Kashmir. Led by Principal Investigator, Ar. Vinod Kumar, Assistant Professor at the School of Architecture & Landscape Design, the research team includes Co-Principal Investigators, Dr. Bharat Bhushan Jindal, Associate Professor at the School of Civil Engineering, and Dr. Naveen Kumar Gondhi, Associate Professor from the School of Computer Science.

The research team plans to employ cutting-edge technologies, including Geographical Information System , 3D modeling, point cloud data processing, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality and artificial simulations, to create immersive and interactive experiences for stakeholders in physical as well as in virtual mode, including policymakers,  conservationists, and the general public.

By leveraging AR and VR, the project aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the endangered or lost cultural & architectural heritage sites and through this to promote sustainable tourism practices in the region. Prof. (Dr.) Pragati Kumar, Vice-Chancellor of SMVDU, Dean of Research & Development, Prof. A.K. Das, Head of the School of Architecture, Ar. Abhiney Gupta, Head of the School of Civil Engineering, Dr. V.K. Dogra, and Head of the School of Computer Science, Dr. Sunanda, along with the faculty members of all schools, congratulated the research team on this achievement.

They stated that this project will not only contribute to the preservation of Jammu & Kashmir's rich architectural and cultural heritage but also showcase the university's commitment to innovative research. The grant awarded by the DST is a testament to the project's potential to make a significant impact in the field of cultural heritage preservation. The research team is excited to embark on this innovative project and contribute to the preservation of Jammu & Kashmir's rich cultural heritage for future generations.

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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