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

AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) observed the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) 2026 by organising a one-day workshop on the theme ‘Resilience Starts at Home’on Tuesday. The programme was organised by the Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction (CDRR) and the Disaster Risk Reduction Club, in collaboration with the Office of the Proctor, to promote disaster preparedness and community-level resilience.

Welcoming the participants, Dr. Irfan Maqbool Bhat, Coordinator, CDRR, highlighted the Centre’s ongoing capacity-building initiatives and training programmes for university stakeholders.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Farooq Hussain Bhat, Dean, School of Sciences, emphasised the importance of integrating disaster preparedness into household and institutional practices. He called for risk-informed planning, interdisciplinary research and greater student engagement in disaster risk reduction, stressing that preparedness must become a shared responsibility and a part of everyday life.

In her special remarks, Dr. Ruheela Hassan, Dean Outreach, IUST, highlighted the need for practical safety measures at homes and institutions, including accessible emergency exits and basic safety equipment. She emphasised that while disasters may be unavoidable, their impact can be minimised through preparedness.

Mr. Qazi Qammer Iqbal, Dean, School of Architecture, Planning and Geomatics, underscored the link between sustainable resource management and disaster risk mitigation, noting that the imprudent use of energy and natural resources can increase disaster risks.

A key highlight of the workshop was the presentation of disaster response plans and vulnerability maps of different districts by student groups, showcasing their efforts to identify risks and strengthen preparedness at the community level. The programme also featured a live fire safety and emergency response demonstration conducted in collaboration with Fire and Emergency Services, Awantipora, providing students and faculty with practical exposure to emergency response techniques.

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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