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

KATRA: The Navratra Festival 2026 concluded on a grand note in the holy town of Katra, marked by vibrant cultural performances, religious fervour and enthusiastic public participation. The festival was organised through the collaborative efforts of the Directorate of Tourism Jammu, Divisional Administration Jammu and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.

The concluding day featured a grand Shobha Yatra inaugurated by Member of Parliament Jugal Kishore Sharma in the presence of other dignitaries. The procession featured colourful tableaux and captivating cultural presentations, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage, traditions and themes drawn from Hindu mythology.

Addressing the gathering, MP Jugal Kishore Sharma highlighted the religious and cultural significance of Navratra Mahotsav, stating that the festival reflects the rich heritage, traditions and spiritual values of Sanatan Dharma. He appreciated the collaborative efforts of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, Tourism Department and the people of Katra in making the festival a grand success.

He urged people to welcome pilgrims and devotees with warmth and hospitality and encouraged families to involve children in religious and cultural activities to preserve the region’s rich cultural heritage. He also called upon everyone to work collectively towards making Jammu and Kashmir and the entire country Nasha Mukt. The Shobha Yatra witnessed enthusiastic participation from devotees and visitors, creating an atmosphere of devotion, celebration and cultural vibrancy in Katra.

As part of the concluding celebrations, the All India Devotional Song Competition culminated at the Yog Ashram Complex. The event featured soulful devotional songs and bhajans by participants, captivating the audience and adding a spiritual touch to the festival’s grand finale. The Navratra Festival 2026 celebrated Katra’s religious and cultural heritage, provided a platform for artists to showcase their talent and reinforced the town’s significance as a major pilgrimage and tourism destination.

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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