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

SRINAGAR: Social Welfare Department  (SWD) Srinagar successfully conducted two-days theme based Nukad Natak under the Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA).  The programme aimed at strengthening awareness and building institutional capacity to prevent substance abuse among youth.

As part of the ongoing nationwide campaign under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA), a series of impactful street plays (Nukkad Natak) were successfully organized by the Department of Social Welfare Srinagar across key transit hubs in Srinagar, including Panthachowk, Khonmoh, Harwan, and Hazratbal bus stands.

The initiative aimed to generate widespread public awareness about the growing threat of substance abuse, its debilitating effects on individuals and families, and the critical need for collective community action to eradicate drug addiction.

Performed by dynamic local theatre artists, the street plays used engaging storytelling, sharp dialogue, and relatable scenarios to highlight the psychological, physical, and socio-economic consequences of drug dependency. By hosting these performances at major bus terminals—high-footfall hubs serving commuters, youth, vendors, and local residents, the campaign reached a broad and diverse audience.

Key highlights of the performances included early detection and prevention  of substance abuse among youth, encouraging open dialogue around addiction as a treatable health issue rather than a social taboo.

Furthermore, these performances guided the public toward available government resources, counselling services, and rehabilitation facilities under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan framework.

The district administration and participating organizations reaffirmed their commitment to continuing multi-pronged awareness drives, enforcement measures, and rehabilitation programs to ensure a healthier, drug-free Srinagar.

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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