In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

SRINAGAR: The 21st Junior National Soft Tennis Championship, organised at Gindun Stadium, Rajbagh, Srinagar, from October 5 to October 10, 2026, concluded successfully with a grand closing ceremony held on October 10, 2026, at the Sher-i-Kashmir Indoor Sports Complex (SKISC), Srinagar. The championship, organised in conjunction with J&K Sports Council, brought together the talented young soft tennis players from across the country, celebrating sporting excellence, discipline, unity and the spirit of healthy competition.

The closing ceremony was graced by Hossein Rafieian, President of the Iran Soft Tennis Association, as the Chief Guest. His presence added international significance to the occasion and reflected the growing scope for cooperation and friendship through soft tennis. Samaneh Hanifi, wife of Hossein Rafieian, attended as the Guest of Honour.

Among the distinguished guests were Sayna Sadat Hashemi, International Affairs representative; Narinder Pal Singh and Mrs Nirmala, Joint Secretaries of the Amateur Soft Tennis Federation of India (ASTFI); Nazrul Islam, President of the Private Schools Association; Dr. Fayaz Ahmad; Fazali, Chairman of Dolphin School, Pulwama and other dignitaries, officials, and representatives associated with ASTFI and sports.

The championship witnessed enthusiastic participation from teams representing different states of India, providing young athletes with a valuable platform to showcase their talent, determination and competitive spirit at the national level. Throughout the tournament, the players demonstrated remarkable dedication, sportsmanship, and discipline, making the championship a memorable sporting occasion.

Addressing the gathering, the distinguished guests appreciated the efforts made to organise the championship successfully in Srinagar and emphasised the importance of providing young players with opportunities to compete at higher levels. The presence of the President of the Iran Soft Tennis Association further highlighted the potential for international engagement and the strengthening of sporting relations through soft tennis.

Special appreciation and sincere thanks are extended to the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council for its valuable support and cooperation in facilitating the successful conduct of the championship. The association also placed on record its gratitude to the Amateur Soft Tennis Federation of India (ASTFI) for its guidance, coordination and continued commitment to the promotion and development of soft tennis across the country.

The successful organisation of this prestigious national championship is a testament to the dedication, planning and tireless efforts of the J&K Amateur Soft Tennis Association, which deserves special credit for hosting the event in Srinagar. From coordination and arrangements to providing a platform for young athletes from across India, the association played a significant role in ensuring that the championship concluded on a high note.

The association also acknowledged the contributions of participating state associations, team managers, coaches, technical officials, volunteers and all those who worked behind the scenes to make the event a success. Their collective efforts helped create a positive and encouraging environment for young sporting talent.

The closing ceremony concluded on a note of pride, appreciation and renewed commitment to the promotion of soft tennis among the youth. The J&K Amateur Soft Tennis Association reaffirmed its commitment to continue its efforts to promote soft tennis in Jammu & Kashmir and contribute meaningfully to the growth of the sport at the national and international levels.

The organisers expressed their gratitude to all participating States, players, coaches, managers, officials, J&K Sports Council, The Jammu and Kashmir Bank Limited, and all other stakeholders whose cooperation has contributed to the successful commencement of the championship.

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
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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