The Survival Fight of JK Monitor: For 16 years, JK Monitor has chronicled Jammu and Kashmir with integrity. Since 2010, I have steered its newsroom alongside our visionary Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan (IIT Kharagpur alumnus, University of Maryland Ph.D.). His tragic demise in October 2026 left a severe financial and operational vacuum. Without urgent support, our 24/7 news portal risks permanently shutting down after November 2026, remaining only as a static digital archive. We appeal to well-wishers to extend a helping hand to keep our active newsroom alive. Support Us: WhatsApp: +91-9906103001 | Email: journalistajmerwani@gmail.com

UDHAMPUR: Udhampur Campus, University of Jammu, celebrated its Diwali Fest with great enthusiasm, fervour and festive spirit, marking the third consecutive year of the event's organisation at the campus. The celebration reflected the institution's continued commitment to promoting cultural vibrancy, creativity, student engagement and a spirit of togetherness among the campus fraternity.

The campus wore a vibrant festive look as students from all semesters came together to celebrate the festival of lights through a series of engaging activities. A major attraction of the fest was the food stalls set up by students, offering a variety of delicacies and refreshments. The initiative provided students with an opportunity to showcase their entrepreneurial abilities, creativity, teamwork and organisational skills, while adding to the festive ambience.

The campus premises were beautifully adorned with colourful rangoli prepared by students, reflecting their artistic talent and the traditional essence of Diwali. The celebrations were further enlivened by energetic dance performances, while a fireworks display added to the festive excitement and created memorable moments for the participants.

On the occasion, Prof. Yash Pal Sharma, Rector, Udhampur Campus, University of Jammu, extended his heartfelt Diwali greetings to the students and staff and shared an inspiring message highlighting the importance of righteousness, perseverance, strength and collective effort in life. He encouraged students to uphold righteousness in their thoughts and actions, emphasising that challenges are an integral part of every meaningful journey. Observing that success comes after struggle, he urged students to face difficulties with courage, determination and inner strength rather than allowing obstacles to discourage them.

Prof. Sharma particularly underscored the significance of teamwork, cooperation and collective responsibility, stating that meaningful achievements are often the outcome of shared efforts and mutual support. Drawing upon the wisdom of the ancient Katha Upanishad, he also elaborated on the concepts of Shreyas and Preyas, explaining the distinction between what is truly beneficial and what is merely pleasurable.

He encouraged students to choose Shreyas, representing the path of long-term welfare, wisdom and lasting fulfilment, over Preyas, which signifies immediate pleasure and gratification. He emphasised that the more challenging path often leads to more meaningful and rewarding outcomes and urged students to prioritise discipline, purposeful learning and long-term growth over short-term attractions. He concluded his address by extending warm Diwali greetings and best wishes to all students and staff members of Udhampur Campus.

The Diwali Fest served as more than a festive gathering, providing a meaningful platform for students to nurture leadership, entrepreneurial abilities, creativity, collaboration and a sense of community beyond the classroom. The enthusiastic participation of students from all semesters and their collective efforts transformed the campus into a vibrant hub of celebration, cultural expression and camaraderie.

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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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