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

JAMMU/SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) continued its mission of fostering innovation and empowering youth through entrepreneurship by organizing Startup Idea Challenge – Boot Camps at Government P.G. College Rajouri, Government Degree College Ganderbal, and Government Degree College Surankote (Poonch). The events, held under the J&K Startup Policy 2024–2027, witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, aspiring entrepreneurs, and faculty members.

At Government P.G. College Rajouri, more than 150 students attended the program, which was graced by Prof.Zameer Ahmad Mirza, Principal of the College, as the Chief Guest. He emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship in youth empowerment.

Mehraj-ud-Din Bhat, District Nodal Officer (DNO) JKEDI Rajouri, presented details of the J&K Startup Policy 2024–27, while Mr.AdilRasool, Manager Estates JKEDI, guided students on startup idea pitching. A motivational address was delivered by Dr.Reyaz Ahmad, I/C IQAC Cell. A total of 20 participants pitched their ideas before a distinguished jury comprising JKEDI officials, J&K Bank representatives, and senior faculty members, out of which three ideas were shortlisted for the next round.

At Government Degree College Ganderbal, the boot camp was inaugurated by Prof.Fouzia Fatima, Principal of the College, who appreciated JKEDI’s role in encouraging youth towards entrepreneurship. Ten aspiring entrepreneurs pitched their ideas before an expert jury.

Muhammad Rafiq Mir, DNO JKEDI Ganderbal, highlighted the role of startups in shaping resilient economies, while Sajad Hussain(APM) shared motivational startup stories. Ms. Sheikh Nowsheen, Assistant Faculty JKEDI. Bushra Ashraf, Functional Manager DIC, explained the benefits of the Startup Policy and encouraged students to pursue innovation with confidence.

Ajaz Ahmad Qureshi, Manager J&K Bank, provided insights into financial support for entrepreneurs. Selected ideas moved forward to the next stage of evaluation. The program was attended by Deputy Director Employment, Ganderbal, faculty members, JKEDI officers, and a large number of students.

At Government Degree College Surankote (Poonch), the boot camp was presided over by Prof. (Dr.) Rani Mughal, Principal of the College, who stressed the importance of the Startup Policy in promoting self-employment and innovation among youth.

The event included a detailed orientation on the policy and idea pitching activity. Out of 15 registered ideas, 11 were presented before a jury panel comprising Shabir Hussain Shah (DNO JKEDI Poonch), Iftikhar Bashir Lone (Associate Project Manager JKEDI), senior faculty members from GDC Surankote, and a representative from J&K Bank. Selected participants were felicitated and qualified for the next round of the challenge.

These boot camps served as vibrant platforms for idea exchange, motivation, and entrepreneurial learning. The dignitaries and jury members across all three districts lauded JKEDI’s sustained efforts to nurture entrepreneurship and innovation at the grassroots level.

By providing mentorship, exposure, and support, JKEDI is reinforcing its mission to strengthen the startup ecosystem and empower the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to become job creators rather than job seekers.

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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