JAMMU: The Department of Botany, University of Jammu, successfully organised a one-day training program on "Plant Root Architecture Analysis for Climate Resilience" under the DST-Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) project of Dr. Sikander Pal, Principal Investigator. The program, organized as part of the Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR) initiative of the Government of India, aimed to provide research training to faculty and scholars from the region, promoting expertise in climate resilience studies within plant sciences.

The event commenced with an invited lecture by Prof. Gurdev Chand, Head of the Plant Physiology Division, SKUAST-Jammu, followed by an interactive session on trait identification for conventional versus molecular breeding. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies, University of Jammu, as the Chief Guest. In her address, Prof. Rohmetra emphasized the significance of such training programs in enhancing research capabilities, particularly in understanding climate change responses in crop systems.

Earlier, Prof. Susheel Verma, Head, Department of Botany, welcomed the participants and extended his gratitude to the Chief Guest and Prof. Namrata Sharma, Dean, Faculty of Life Sciences, who attended as the Guest of Honor. Prof. Verma highlighted the importance of plant root trait analysis in agricultural research. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Namrata Sharma encouraged the participants to adopt advanced research methodologies in their respective domains.

The practical sessions were led by Dr. Sikander Pal alongside a team of Plant Physiology Lab scholars—Prakriti, Bhuvneshwari, Rehana, and Shamli. Participants were trained in advanced root analysis techniques using specialized software, including ImageJ, Rhizo Vision Explorer, RootScan, WinRhizo, and RooSOFT.

The program successfully enriched the knowledge of 40 participants, comprising faculty and scholars from various universities and colleges across the UT of Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab. The event was attended by Prof. Pankaj Kumar, Prof. Jyoti Wakhlu, Dr. Amit Gupta, Dr. Rakesh, Dr. Skarma Nonzom, and Dr. Ripudaman, who engaged in discussions on the relevance of root architecture research in modern agriculture.

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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