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

JAMMU: The Satish Dhawan Centre for Space Sciences (SDCSS), Central University of Jammu, organised a two-day programme  in honour of the eminent Indian scientist Prof. Satish Dhawan and to commemorate World Space Week 2026. The programme was organised under the able guidance of Prof. Sanjeev Jain, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Central University of Jammu, with the objective of promoting awareness, research and innovation in space science and technology.

The inaugural ceremony, held  at the Satish Dhawan Centre for Space Sciences, was graced by Prof. Sanjeev Jain, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Central University of Jammu, as the Chief Guest.

Prof. Kuruvilla Joseph, Ph.D., FRSC, Distinguished Professor and Pro-Vice Chancellor, Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Department of Space, Government of India, attended as the Guest of Honour.

Prof. Yashwant Singh, Registrar, Central University of Jammu, was also present. The programme was coordinated under the leadership of Prof. Rakesh Kumar Jha, Convener, SDCSS.

The programme commenced with a ceremonial welcome of the dignitaries, followed by a visit to the Centre’s facilities, including the Central Instrumentation Facility and the Vikram Sarabhai Space Laboratory. The visit showcased the Centre’s infrastructure, ongoing activities and capabilities in space science, scientific instrumentation and related technologies.

Welcoming the gathering, Prof. Rakesh Kumar Jha highlighted the vision, objectives and activities of the Satish Dhawan Centre for Space Sciences. He emphasised the importance of strengthening space science education, fostering interdisciplinary research and encouraging technological innovation among students and young researchers.

A major highlight of the inaugural programme was the keynote lecture delivered by Prof. Kuruvilla Joseph on “India’s Space Programme: Achievements, Opportunities and the Way Forward.” The lecture offered valuable insights into India’s remarkable journey in space science and technology, its major achievements and emerging opportunities for academic institutions, researchers and aspiring professionals. An interactive session on “Opportunities in Space Science, Technology, Research and Careers” further engaged students and research scholars in discussions on emerging research areas, career pathways and future prospects in the space sector.

During the programme, Prof. Kuruvilla Joseph was felicitated in recognition of his esteemed presence and valuable contribution to the event. The proceedings were anchored by Dr. Haneet Kour, Research Associate, Satish Dhawan Centre for Space Sciences. The programme was coordinated by Ms. Mehak Mahajan, Senior Technical Assistant, Central University of Jammu.

The two-day programme served as a meaningful tribute to the enduring legacy and visionary contributions of Prof. Satish Dhawan, one of India’s pioneering figures in space research. It also provided an enriching platform for knowledge exchange, scientific engagement and career awareness, inspiring students and young researchers to explore new frontiers in space science and contribute to India’s growing space science and technology ecosystem.

Through such academic initiatives, the Central University of Jammu continues to strengthen its commitment to scientific excellence, innovation and the development of future-ready researchers in emerging areas of science and technology.

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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