KATRA: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University’s School of Architecture and Landscape Design (SoALD) has achieved a remarkable milestone by securing the 23rd rank in the prestigious National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025, marking a significant recognition of its excellence in architectural education and research. This achievement reflects the visionary leadership and unwavering support of Prof. Pragati Kumar, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of SMVDU, whose guidance has been instrumental in steering the School towards academic distinction.

Shri Manoj Sinha, Hon'ble Lieutenant Governor of JKUT and Chancellor- SMVDU also congratulated Vice- Chancellor for the achievement. The dedication and relentless efforts of the SoALD faculty have played a pivotal role in shaping the department’s growth and fostering an environment of innovation and creativity. The accomplishment is also attributed to the architectural community at large, including the Indian Institute of Architects (IIA), J&K Chapter, whose continuous collaboration and professional inputs have enriched the academic ecosystem of the School. Special appreciation goes to the students of SoALD for their hard work and passion, the alumni for their consistent support, and the external collaborators, visiting faculty, external examiners, and jurors whose valuable critiques and guidance have helped the department achieve this feat. Expressing gratitude on the occasion,

 Ar. Abhiney Gupta, Head of SoALD, and Ar. Navin Gupta, Associate Head of SoALD, extended heartfelt thanks to the faculty, students, and the wider architectural fraternity for their contributions. They emphasized their commitment to holistic growth of the department and expressed confidence that with the continued support of faculty, collaborators, and stakeholders, SoALD will further strengthen its position as one of the country’s leading architecture schools. With this achievement, SoALD reaffirms its dedication to providing cutting-edge architectural education while nurturing innovation, sustainability, and excellence in the built environment.

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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