KATRA: Cadet Saher Sharma from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) had the distinct honour of participating in the Special National Integration Camp (SNIC)-2025 held at Srinagar, J&K. The camp served as a confluence of culture, discipline, and national unity, bringing together NCC cadets from across India in the scenic and vibrant region of Kashmir.

One of the highlights of the camp was the Inter-Directorate Song Competition, where Cadet Saher Sharma proudly represented the Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh (JK&L) Directorate, performing Dogri, Ladakhi, and Kashmiri songs, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.Cadet Saher also participated in the celebration of International Yoga Day on 21st June, where a grand yoga demonstration was held.

In addition, she took part in inter-directorate volleyball matches and the Group Dance Competition, where she performed traditional dances of JK&L as a selected member of the cultural team.The cadets also visited several significant locations, including the War Memorial, Pani Mandir, Dharohar Museum, FOD Museum, and enjoyed a Light and Sound Show in the evenings. Their exploration continued with visits to the Shankaracharya Temple, Mughal Gardens, Pratap Singh Museum, and a serene boating experience on Dal Lake.

A breath-taking trip to Sonamarg was also organized, where cadets witnessed a live demonstration of mountaineering gear and learned about climbing techniques on various snow conditions.A major highlight was the cultural performance before distinguished dignitaries, including the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah, and the Additional Director General (ADG) of the JK&L Directorate.

Cadet Saher Sharma was especially honoured to be one of the six cadets selected for the opening act, performing a graceful Ganesh Vandana, which set the tone for the entire cultural presentation.The final evening of the camp featured a grand Cultural Night and Prize Distribution Ceremony, where the JK&L Directorate secured First Position in Dance, NIAP, and Group Song competitions. Every cadet was awarded a certificate of participation, marking the successful conclusion of the camp.Cadet Saher’s journey was guided and supported by Dr. Varun Dutta, NCC Coordinator, and Ms. Deepika Malik, CTO, who played an instrumental role in her preparation.

Their mentorship and encouragement helped her achieve this significant milestone.On this proud occasion, Prof. Pragati Kumar, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, and Sh. Ajay Kumar Sharma, Registrar, SMVDU, extended their heartfelt congratulations to Cadet Saher Sharma for her outstanding achievement. They also appreciated the efforts of the NCC unit of SMVDU for nurturing cadets and guiding them towards excellence and national service.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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 šŸ‘‡