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

JAMMU: Home for the Aged & Infirm (Vridh Ashram), Ambphalla, Jammu, celebrated the auspicious occasion of Navami and Durga Ashtami with a sacred Havan and traditional Kanya Pujan. The occasion also marked an important milestone with the newly equipped Fully Automatic Kitchen including Roti Maker, Dough Ball Kneading Machine, Dough Ball Cutter, Potato Peeler, Vegetable Washer, Rice Maker and Steel Racksfor covering and properly storing utensils. This facility will improve kitchen efficiency, hygiene and the timely preparation of meals for the residents, strengthening the Ashram’s commitment to providing hygienic, nutritious meals and better care to its elderly residents.

The sacred Havan was performed with devotion, with elderly residents actively participating in the rituals and praying for peace, good health and the well-being of all. This was followed by Kanya Pujan, during which Er. Pankaj Gupta, President; Dr. Dinesh Gupta, Secretary; Sh. Sat Pal Sharma, Managing Committee Member; and Dr. Bharat Bhushan Sharma, Medical Officer, worshipped the young girls as manifestations of Maa Durga and distributed traditional offerings.

The most touching moments came when the elderly residents looked at the little girls with affectionate smiles and moist eyes. For many, the children brought back memories of their own granddaughters - their innocent smiles awakening cherished emotions and a longing for family bonds. As the residents showered blessings upon the girls, the atmosphere was filled with love, tenderness and a profound sense of belonging.

The occasion beautifully combined spiritual devotion with meaningful progress in elder care. While the new kitchen will help nourish the residents through improved facilities, the Kanya Pujan brought warmth and happiness to their hearts, reaffirming that the spirit of Vridh Ashram lies not only in caring for the elderly but also in ensuring that they feel loved, valued and connected.

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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