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

JAMMU: The Literary Club, University of Jammu, under the aegis of Utsaah, organised the second session of ‘Kitabnama’, a group reading initiative, at the Padma Sachdev Sur Samvad Rangsthal. Dedicated to renowned Russian writer Leo Tolstoy on the occasion of his death anniversary month, the session focused on his celebrated short story How Much Land Does a Man Need?

The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from students across various departments of the University, providing a shared platform for reading, reflection and literary dialogue. Prof. Meena Sharma, Convener, Utsaah, formally welcomed the Chief Guest, Dr. Naseeb Singh Manhas, eminent writer and former Director of Doordarshan, along with faculty members and students. In her welcome address, she highlighted the significance of the initiative and its role in fostering literary engagement among students.

The highlight of the session was a live reading of the short story by a student narrator, followed by an interactive open-floor discussion. Students shared their interpretations and reflections, drawing parallels between the protagonist’s insatiable desire for land and contemporary materialistic pursuits. The discussion enabled participants to explore literature beyond conventional classroom settings through collective reading and dialogue.

Interacting with the students, Chief Guest Dr. Naseeb Singh Manhas appreciated the continued efforts of the Literary Club and emphasised the enduring relevance of classical literature in understanding society and human relationships. He encouraged students to cultivate a regular habit of reading and writing and to engage with literature through critical reflection.

Prof. Sadaf Shah, Coordinator, Literary Club, presented the formal vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the Chief Guest, faculty members and students for their presence and active participation. The ‘Kitabnama’ initiative aims to promote reading habits among students by providing a shared platform for literary engagement, critical thinking and meaningful dialogue, thereby strengthening the culture of reading on the University campus.

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
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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇