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

SRINAGAR: In a significant step aimed to foster startup ideation and promote entrepreneurial spirit among students, Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) organized a series of boot camps under the J&K Startup Idea Challenge in Government Degree Colleges at Anantnag, Srinagar, Pulwama, Budgam, Handwara and Ganderbal.

At Government College for Women (GCW), Nawakadal, Srinagar, the boot camp, conducted by a three-member JKEDI team, witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 100 students, who were introduced to the J&K Startup Policy 2024-27 and engaged in an interactive session on entrepreneurship as a career choice.

Similarly, at GCW M.A. Road, Srinagar, a four-member JKEDI team conducted the program. Around 200 students participated, with 16 pitching their ideas before a jury of which five innovative ideas were shortlisted for the next round.

Also in Anantnag, the boot camp was held at Government Degree College for Boys, Anantnag, by a JKEDI team. Out of 140 participants, 16 pitched their ideas, with 10 qualifying for the next round. Students and faculty members expressed keen interest in continued mentorship and entrepreneurial handholding.

Moreover at Government Degree College, Budgam, about 100 students attended the session, with 18 presenting their ideas. The designated jury provided real-time feedback and encouragement. Further, at Government Degree College for Boys, Pulwama, Nine students pitched their ideas in front of a jury in the boot camp.

In Handwara, the boot camp was organized at Government Degree College, Handwara, by a JKEDI team. Seven students pitched their ideas before a jury. Successful entrepreneur Humera Ashiq also shared her experience with the participants. At Government Polytechnic College, Ganderbal, seven students presented their ideas before the panel of experts in the boot camp.

Shortlisted participants from across J&K will undergo intensive mentoring and pitch training at JKEDI campuses in Pampore before competing in the Grand Finale. The top 20 ideas will be showcased before a high-level jury of industry experts, investors, and policymakers. Winners will receive prizes, incentives, and incubation support at JKEDI and partner incubators across the Union Territory.

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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