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

AWANTIPORA: The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (DJMC), Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), is organising the national-level Film Festival 2026 on October 15. The Film Festival shall be held at the Lal Ded Auditorium of the IUST Main Campus.

The film festival shall feature screening of short films and documentaries, panel discussion of experts and also a competition among school, college and university students for the best film awards to be judged by renowned filmmakers and critics. The jury members include Prof. Shahid Rasool, Dean Academic Affairs and Dean of Media School, Central University of Kashmir; Mr. Mir Sarwar, renowned Bollywood actor and director; and Mr. Danish Renzu, renowned filmmaker and Founder, Renzu Films. 

More than 20 short films and documentaries have been shortlisted for the competition.Student filmmakers from various colleges and universities from Jammu and Kashmir and other states of India are participating in the festival. Besides, some DJMC Production films shall be screened on the occasion. The festival aims to provide an opportunity to support young creative talent and contribute to the promotion of cinema, arts and culture in the region.

Popular resort, the Maple Café and Bistro is the Official Hospitality Partner of the Film Festival, reputed daily newspaper, Kashmir Observer serves as Official Print and Digital Media Partner, whereas popular FM station,Big 92.7 FM is the Official Radio Partner of the event.

To mention, this initiative follows the success of the 2023 and 2025 editions hosted by DJMC IUST, which witnessed enthusiastic student participation and cross-institutional collaboration across the Valley. 

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

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