JAMMU: In a remarkable step toward promoting scientific awareness, the University of Jammu, under the leadership of Vice Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai, has unveiled a unique initiative on campus. Today, Prof. Rai planted topiaries that vividly depict the milestones of vertebrate evolution, symbolizing the incredible journey of vertebrate life on Earth. 

These topiaries, representing key stages of evolution from fish to humans, are not just a visual treat but also serve as an educational resource for students and visitors. "At the University of Jammu, we are committed to nurturing scientific curiosity and deepening our understanding of the world,” said Vice Chancellor Prof. Rai. “This project is intended to spark interest in the remarkable journey of evolution, while also underscoring the crucial need for conservation and sustainability.” 

The topiary garden is now open to the public, complete with informative plaques and guided tours to enhance the learning experience. The University also plans to expand this initiative by offering workshops, lectures, and research programs focusing on the horticultural importance of plants, evolutionary biology, and environmental science. 

This project was undertaken by the Department of Botany in collaboration with the Arboriculture section of the University of Jammu, under the dynamic leadership of Prof. Umesh Rai.  

The event was graced by the presence of several esteemed faculty members, including Prof. Seema Langer, Dean, Faculty of Life Sciences; Prof. Susheel Verma, Head, Department of Botany; Prof. Piyush Malaviya, Head, Department of Environmental Sciences; Prof. Yash Pal Sharma; Prof. Namrata Sharma; Prof. Deepika Slathia; Dr. Geeta; Dr. Harish Chander; Dr. Sajan Thakur; Dr. Sapna Verma; Dr. Abhishek Dutta; and Landscape Development Officer Sh. Ajmer Singh.

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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