KATRA: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), Katra, successfully organized a one-day workshop titled "Awareness Program on Institutional Developmental Plan (IDP) for Higher Education Institutes (HEI)" under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA). The workshop brought together distinguished Academicians, Deans, Administrators, and Faculty members, from SMVDU and Higher Education institutions of Jammu to deliberate on the significance of IDP in enhancing governance, research, and academic policies in higher education institutions.

The resource persons for the workshop were Prof. I.K. Bhat, former Vice Chancellor, Manav Rachna University, Faridabad and Prof. K.S. Chandrasekar, Vice-Chancellor, Cluster University Jammu, who delivered comprehensive sessions on various aspects of institutional growth and governance. The event commenced with opening remarks about the workshop by Prof. Balbir Singh and an inaugural address delivered by the Chief Guest, Prof. Pragati Kumar, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SMVDU, who highlighted the vital role of IDP in ensuring the long-term sustainability of educational institutions. He stressed that a well-defined developmental plan is key to achieve excellence in governance, research, and student-centric policies.

He further elaborated on the evolving landscape of higher education, where institutions must integrate critical thinking, clear institutional goals, transparent evaluation channels, and modern pedagogical techniques to remain competitive. The workshop was Coordinated by Prof. Balbir Singh, Dean of Academic Affairs, Dr. Shafaq Rasool and Dr. B.B. Jindal Associate Deans Academic Affairs.During the first technical session, Prof. I.K. Bhat led the discussion on "Why IDP – Essentials of IDP, Governance, Academic and Research Enablers." Academic frameworks, research enablers, governance, and the fundamentals of IDP were the main topics of the seminar.

The second technical session, “Human Resource Management and Digital Enablers” was delivered by Prof. Chandrasekar. He emphasized the role of human resource management and digital enablers in higher education. He spoke at length about the importance of investing in faculty training, performance evaluation, and leadership development to build a robust academic ecosystem.

The workshop provided an excellent platform for knowledge exchange and highlighted the significance of clear institutional goals, digital transformation, student-centric learning, and transparent governance models in shaping the future of higher education. Participants lauded the initiative, acknowledging that such programs are essential in helping institutions adapt to emerging challenges and implement effective strategies for academic and research excellence. The workshop concluded with closing remarks and a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Shafaq Rasool, Associate Dean Academic Affairs (SMVDU. With the success of this workshop, SMVDU reaffirmed its commitment to promote quality education, innovation, and sustainable institutional development under the visionary framework of PM-USHA.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇