Governor Kataria calls for AI-enabled, ethical and industry-oriented higher education to build Viksit Bharat by 2047

Governor Kataria calls for AI-enabled, ethical and industry-oriented higher education to build Viksit Bharat by 2047

Punjab Lok Bhavan hosts Vice-Chancellors’ Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Higher Education

Chandigarh, September 12:

The Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria today called upon Vice-Chancellors of universities to harness Artificial Intelligence (AI) for transforming higher education, research and innovation, while ensuring that technology remains human-centric, ethical, inclusive and socially responsible.

Addressing the Vice-Chancellors’ Conference on “Artificial Intelligence and Higher Education” at Punjab Lok Bhavan, Shri Kataria said the AI revolution was changing the way people learn, work, conduct research and take decisions. He described AI as a transformative force that could significantly influence India’s economy and society in the coming decades. Additional Chief Secretary to the Governor of Punjab, Shri Vivek Pratap Singh; Lalit Jain, IAS; and Director Higher Education, U.T. Chandigarh, Ms. Palika Arora, were also present during the conference.

The conference commenced with an introduction to the theme by Prof. Jaspal Singh Sandhu, prominent educationist and former Vice-Chancellor of Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar to the Hon’ble Governor, Punjab, followed by a presentation on “MY Bharat – Mera Yuva Bharat” by Sh. Sorabh Kumar Arora, PCS, Director, Sports, Chandigarh Administration.

The Governor said universities must look beyond AI as merely a subject of engineering and computer science and promote multidisciplinary AI education across medicine, agriculture, law, finance, languages, social sciences and other fields. He urged institutions to develop AI-based solutions for agriculture, healthcare, water conservation, governance and environmental challenges.

The technical session on “Future of Technical Education with the Advent of AI” was addressed by Prof. K. K. Aggarwal, President, South Asian University, New Delhi, former Chairman, National Board of Accreditation and Founding Vice-Chancellor, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University.

Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director, IIT Ropar, and his team from IIT Ropar presented on “Artificial Intelligence: Emerging Technologies and Applications in Higher Education.” Sessions on best practices featured presentations by Dr. Suresh Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, Shaheed Bhagat Singh State University, Firozpur; Dr. Pushpinder Singh Gill, Vice-Chancellor, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh Punjab Sports University, Patiala; and Dr. Vinay Goyal, Vice-Chancellor, CGC University.

The conference also featured a special address by Dr. Harpal Thethi, Professor and Additional Director, Division of Career Services, Lovely Professional University, on strengthening university-industry partnerships and building industry-ready graduates.

Governor Kataria stressed the importance of AI laboratories, bridge courses, certification programmes, reskilling and practical learning. He also highlighted the National Education Policy-2020, IndiaAI Mission, BharatGen, Anusandhan National Research Foundation and One Nation One Subscription as important initiatives for strengthening India’s research and technological capabilities.

Emphasising responsible AI, the Governor highlighted concerns relating to data privacy, cybersecurity, deepfakes, misinformation, transparency and accountability. He said students must learn not only what AI can do, but also what AI should and should not do.

Calling upon universities to become centres of knowledge, innovation and nation-building, Shri Kataria said their contribution would be crucial in preparing India’s youth for the future and achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

राज्यपाल कटारिया ने विकसित भारत@2047 के लिए AI आधारित, नैतिक और उद्योग की जरूरतों के अनुरूप उच्च शिक्षा पर जोर दिया

राज्यपाल कटारिया ने विकसित भारत@2047 के लिए AI आधारित, नैतिक और उद्योग की जरूरतों के अनुरूप उच्च शिक्षा पर जोर दिया

पंजाब लोक भवन में आर्टिफिशियल इंटेलिजेंस और उच्च शिक्षा पर कुलपतियों का सम्मेलन आयोजित

चंडीगढ़, 12 सितंबर:

पंजाब के राज्यपाल एवं यू.टी. चंडीगढ़ के प्रशासक, श्री गुलाब चंद कटारिया ने आज विश्वविद्यालयों के कुलपतियों से उच्च शिक्षा, शोध और नवाचार में बदलाव लाने के लिए आर्टिफिशियल इंटेलिजेंस (AI) का अधिक से अधिक उपयोग करने का आह्वान किया। उन्होंने कहा कि तकनीक का उपयोग मानव-केंद्रित, नैतिक, समावेशी और समाज के प्रति जिम्मेदार तरीके से होना चाहिए।

पंजाब लोक भवन में “आर्टिफिशियल इंटेलिजेंस और उच्च शिक्षा” विषय पर आयोजित कुलपतियों के सम्मेलन को संबोधित करते हुए श्री कटारिया ने कहा कि AI क्रांति ने लोगों के सीखने, काम करने, शोध करने और निर्णय लेने के तरीकों को बदल दिया है। उन्होंने कहा कि आने वाले दशकों में AI भारत की अर्थव्यवस्था और समाज को महत्वपूर्ण रूप से प्रभावित करने वाली परिवर्तनकारी शक्ति है। सम्मेलन में पंजाब के राज्यपाल के अतिरिक्त मुख्य सचिव श्री विवेक प्रताप सिंह, श्री ललित जैन, IAS और यू.टी. चंडीगढ़ की निदेशक उच्च शिक्षा, सुश्री पालिका अरोड़ा भी उपस्थित रहीं।

सम्मेलन की शुरुआत प्रो. जसपाल सिंह संधू, प्रमुख शिक्षाविद् एवं पूर्व कुलपति गुरु नानक देव विश्वविद्यालय, अमृतसर, द्वारा सम्मेलन के विषय का माननीय राज्यपाल के समक्ष परिचय प्रस्तुत करने के साथ हुई। इसके बाद चंडीगढ़ प्रशासन के खेल निदेशक, श्री सोरभ कुमार अरोड़ा, PCS ने “MY Bharat: Mera Yuva Bharat” विषय पर प्रस्तुति दी।

राज्यपाल ने कहा कि विश्वविद्यालयों को AI को केवल इंजीनियरिंग और कंप्यूटर साइंस का विषय मानने तक सीमित नहीं रहना चाहिए। उन्होंने चिकित्सा, कृषि, कानून, वित्त, भाषाओं, सामाजिक विज्ञान और अन्य क्षेत्रों में भी AI की पढ़ाई को बढ़ावा देने पर जोर दिया। उन्होंने संस्थानों से कृषि, स्वास्थ्य, जल संरक्षण, शासन व्यवस्था और पर्यावरण से जुड़ी चुनौतियों के समाधान के लिए AI आधारित समाधान विकसित करने का आह्वान किया।

“AI के आगमन के साथ तकनीकी शिक्षा का भविष्य” विषय पर तकनीकी सत्र को प्रो. के. के. अग्रवाल, अध्यक्ष, साउथ एशियन यूनिवर्सिटी, नई दिल्ली, पूर्व अध्यक्ष, नेशनल बोर्ड ऑफ एक्रेडिटेशन और संस्थापक कुलपति, गुरु गोबिंद सिंह इंद्रप्रस्थ विश्वविद्यालय ने संबोधित किया।

IIT रोपड़ के निदेशक प्रो. राजीव आहूजा और उनकी टीम ने “आर्टिफिशियल इंटेलिजेंस: उभरती तकनीकें और उच्च शिक्षा में उनके उपयोग” विषय पर प्रस्तुति दी। सम्मेलन में बेहतर कार्यप्रणालियों पर आयोजित सत्रों में शहीद भगत सिंह स्टेट यूनिवर्सिटी, फिरोजपुर के कुलपति डॉ. सुरेश कुमार; महाराजा भूपिंदर सिंह पंजाब स्पोर्ट्स यूनिवर्सिटी, पटियाला के कुलपति डॉ. पुष्पिंदर सिंह गिल; तथा CGC यूनिवर्सिटी के कुलपति डॉ. विनय गोयल ने प्रस्तुतियां दीं।

सम्मेलन में लवली प्रोफेशनल यूनिवर्सिटी के प्रोफेसर एवं डिवीजन ऑफ करियर सर्विसेज के अतिरिक्त निदेशक डॉ. हरपाल थेठी ने विश्वविद्यालयों और उद्योग के बीच साझेदारी को मजबूत करने तथा युवाओं को उद्योग की जरूरतों के अनुरूप तैयार करने पर विशेष संबोधन दिया।

राज्यपाल कटारिया ने AI प्रयोगशालाओं, ब्रिज कोर्स, सर्टिफिकेशन कार्यक्रमों, कौशल विकास और व्यावहारिक शिक्षा के महत्व पर जोर दिया। उन्होंने राष्ट्रीय शिक्षा नीति-2020, IndiaAI Mission, BharatGen, अनुसंधान नेशनल रिसर्च फाउंडेशन और One Nation One Subscription को भारत की शोध एवं तकनीकी क्षमताओं को मजबूत करने वाली महत्वपूर्ण पहलों के रूप में रेखांकित किया।

जिम्मेदार AI के महत्व पर जोर देते हुए राज्यपाल ने डेटा की गोपनीयता, साइबर सुरक्षा, डीपफेक, गलत सूचना, पारदर्शिता और जवाबदेही से जुड़ी चिंताओं को भी सामने रखा। उन्होंने कहा कि छात्रों को केवल यह नहीं सीखना चाहिए कि AI क्या कर सकता है, बल्कि यह भी समझना चाहिए कि AI का उपयोग किन कार्यों के लिए किया जाना चाहिए और किनके लिए नहीं।

विश्वविद्यालयों से ज्ञान, नवाचार और राष्ट्र निर्माण के केंद्र बनने का आह्वान करते हुए श्री कटारिया ने कहा कि भारत के युवाओं को भविष्य के लिए तैयार करने और 2047 तक विकसित भारत के लक्ष्य को हासिल करने में विश्वविद्यालयों की महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका होगी।

Prof. Babita Ghai Elected IASP Councillor for Asia/Oceania and Australia

Prof. Babita Ghai Elected IASP Councillor for Asia/Oceania and Australia

Chandigarh, September

 2026: 

In a significant achievement for PGIMER, Chandigarh, and India, *Prof. Babita Ghai,* Professor of Anaesthesia & Intensive Care and Consultant In-Charge, Pain Clinic, PGIMER, has been elected as a Councillor of the International *Association for the Study of Pain* (IASP), representing Asia/Oceania and Australiafor a six-year term, following a rigorous and competitive election process.

IASP is the leading international organisation in the field of pain, with around 10,000 members worldwide. *Prof. Ghai* is the second Indian woman and the youngest Indian to be elected to the IASP Council.

 *Prof. Ghai* has been associated with IASP since 2004 and has served in several leadership roles, including the Global Advocacy Working Group, Presidential Task Force on Interdisciplinary Pain Treatment, Developing Countries/LMIC Working Group, Pain Education SIG, Acute Pain SIG and Pain Research Forum. 

 *With 27 years of post-MD experience, Prof. Ghai is the Course Coordinator of the Pain Medicine Fellowship at PGIMER.* She completed a Commonwealth Academic Staff Fellowship in Pain Management at Barts and The London NHS Trust, Queen Mary University of London, UK, in 2012. She has nearly 150 peer-reviewed publications, has led multiple funded research projects, delivered over 250 invited national and international lectures, and has been invited faculty at around 20 international conferences, including World Congresses on Pain.

A defining feature of her professional journey has been her commitment to taking healthcare beyond the hospital to underserved communities. She has organised numerous free health and pain-relief camps in rural and underserved areas, providing consultations, health screening, pain management and medicines, followed by community-based yoga programmes and referral for specialised care when required.

She has also developed an evidence-based yoga protocol for chronic low back pain and published an illustrated Back Care Booklet in Hindi, Punjabi and English, which has been distributed free of cost. *Her contribution to health education through Hindi was recognised with the National Hindi Award from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.* She has conducted extensive public awareness programmes through community organisations, FM radio and other public platforms and was also invited as a TEDx speaker on “Accessibility.”

She is currently conducting a DST KIRAN project where she is reached out to rural area and teaches Yoga to the chronic Low back pain patients. Her ICMR-funded community research on chronic low back pain has resulted in two large community studies examining its prevalence, disability and psychosocial and mental health impact, contributing valuable evidence for community healthcare planning.

Prof. Ghai’s contributions have been recognised through 16 national awards, including the President’s Appreciation Award of the Indian Society for the Study of Pain, and four international professional awards.

Her election to the IASP Council is a recognition not only of her contributions to pain medicine, education, research and advocacy, but also of PGIMER’s growing international leadership in pain care and academic medicine. Her work continues to strengthen the bridge between excellence in tertiary healthcare and compassionate, accessible care for the wider community.



 

International consultation of Policymakers of 27 countries at PGIMER Chandigarh

International consultation of Policymakers of 27 countries at PGIMER Chandigarh 

 

 A one-week Public Health Policy and Management Program for senior policymakers from 27 countries will be organised at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, from 9–14 September 2026.

The program is being organised by the Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, PGIMER, Chandigarh,* with the participation of 50 senior-level healthcare professionals from Seychelles, Cambodia, Nigeria, Indonesia, Ghana, Tanzania, Iraq, Tunisia, Lebanon, Armenia, Argentina, Togo, Russia, Malawi, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Gabon, Nepal, Kenya, Namibia, Tajikistan, Liberia, Egypt, Laos, Uzbekistan, Burkina Faso and Cameroon.* 

The program aims to strengthen the capacity of policymakers and senior health professionals in public health policy formulation, implementation, health-system management and evidence-informed decision-making. The learning is expected to support participants in designing and implementing effective health policies and programs in their respective countries, contributing towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Over the past decade, the program has emerged as an important platform for India’s global health diplomacy and South-South cooperation, having trained more than *1,800 healthcare professionals from 97 countries.* 

Speaking about the program, *Dr. Sonu Goel,* Program Director and Professor, Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, PGIMER, Chandigarh, said that the flagship program has been conducted for nearly a decade and has contributed to strengthening South-South development cooperation among 161 ITEC partner countries across Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean and the Pacific, including Small Island Developing States.The program reflects India’s ethos of “ *Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”-* the world is one family, by providing a platform for countries to share experiences, exchange knowledge and explore context-specific solutions to common public health challenges.

The academic program will feature sessions by distinguished faculty from PGIMER and other leading institutions, covering key aspects of public health policy, health-system strengthening, leadership, governance and management. *The program will also provide participants with an opportunity to observe Indian best practices through field visits and experiential learning* .As part of the field exposure, participants will visit the Municipal Corporation of Chandigarh to understand the implementation of the Smart City concept and observe how public policies are translated into action at the local level. *They will also visit selected departments and centres at PGIMER to witness state-of-the-art healthcare and technology-enabled services, including tele-evidence, telemedicine and the Regional Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (ROTTO), among other facilities.* The program will employ innovative and participatory learning methodologies, including case-based learning, simulations, role plays, gamification, peer learning and experiential learning, enabling participants to connect policy concepts with real-world health-system practices.

A cultural and networking eventwill also be organised on 11 September 2026, providing participants with an informal platform to interact, share experiences and build professional networks for future collaboration and knowledge exchange.A key feature of the program will be the development of anAction Plan by each participant based on the learning gained during the program. The implementation of these plans will subsequently be followed up by the program organisers.The best-performing country report will be recognised and rewarded by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.



 

Deputy Commissioner issues directions to officials for smooth paddy procurement

Deputy Commissioner issues directions to officials for smooth paddy procurement

 *Paddy procurement to begin at three mandis in Panchkula district from October 1*

*Farmers should face no inconvenience during procurement: Deputy Commissioner*

*Officials directed to ensure all basic amenities for farmers at mandis*

 Panchkula, September 8: A meeting was held at the Mini Secretariat  under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Sh. Satpal Sharma to review preparations for the smooth conduct of the Kharif Procurement Season (KPS) 2026-27. During the meeting, preparations being made by various departments and procurement agencies for the procurement of paddy and other food grains were reviewed, and necessary directions were issued to the concerned officials.

 Procurement of paddy and other food grains for the Kharif Procurement Season 2026-27 is scheduled to commence on October 1, 2026. 

 In Panchkula district, procurement at the Panchkula, Barwala, and Raipurrani mandis will be carried out by state procurement agencies, including HAFED and the Haryana Warehousing Corporation. The Haryana Government has fixed the Minimum Support Price (MSP) at  Rs 2,461 per quintal for Grade-A paddy and Rs 2,441 per quintal for Common paddy.

 The Deputy Commissioner directed the secretaries and officials of the respective market committees to ensure the adequate availability of all basic amenities for farmers at the mandis, including drinking water, MSP display boards, toilets, and biometric weighing systems. He emphasized that there should be no shortcomings in the arrangements made for the convenience of farmers.

 He directed all procurement agencies to complete the necessary preparations well before the commencement of procurement and to assign duties to all buyers and procurement personnel in a timely manner. He also directed transporters to complete all required formalities and live portal-related procedures within the stipulated timeframe so that there are no hurdles in the lifting of procured crops.

 The Deputy Commissioner further directed millers to register promptly and complete all registration and agreement formalities with the concerned procurement agencies within the prescribed timeframe. He said that timely completion of all necessary formalities would ensure the smooth commencement of paddy procurement from October 1.

 He also directed officials to ensure the availability of an adequate number of moisture meters at every mandi  for accurate and transparent testing of moisture levels in paddy. The concerned officials were directed to ensure that there is no delay in making payments to farmers after procurement of their crops.

 The Deputy Commissioner reiterated that farmers should not face any difficulty during the procurement process. He directed all concerned departments and procurement agencies to work in close coordination to ensure that the procurement process is carried out in a smooth, transparent, and organized manner.

 The meeting was attended by Panchkula SDM Smt Mannat Rana, District Food and Supplies Controller (DFSC) Sh Jatin Mittal, Barwala Market Committee Chairman Sh Deshraj Poswal, District Managers of HAFED and the Haryana Warehousing Corporation, representatives of the Food Corporation of India (FCI), the Lead District Manager (LDM), millers, transporters, secretaries and chairpersons of market committees, the District Mandi Enforcement Officer (DMEO), and representatives of the Arhtiya  association.

A demolition drive carried out by the Office of the District Magistrate, U.T. Chandigarh

Chandigarh, September 8, 2026

A demolition drive was carried out today by the Office of the District Magistrate, U.T. Chandigarh, to remove unauthorized constructions and encroachments in Village Kaimbwala.

The demolition operation was ordered by Sh. Nishant Kumar Yadav, IAS, District Magistrate, U.T. Chandigarh. The operation commenced at 9:00 A.M. and was carried out under the supervision of the SDM (Central), U.T. Chandigarh, with the active participation of revenue, enforcement, police and civil defence personnel.

As part of the enforcement drive, encroachments spread over approximately 118 kanals of land (around 15 acres) were cleared. The action particularly covered boundary walls and encroachments in open areas adjoining farmhouses, thereby restoring the encroached land and ensure that the area remains free from unauthorized construction.

The demolition drive involved close coordination among the District Administration, Chandigarh Police and Civil Defence, ensuring that the operation was conducted in an orderly and effective manner.

Adequate police personnel, including lady constables, were deployed to maintain law and order and facilitate the smooth execution of the enforcement action in the presence of a DSP-rank officer.

The SDM (Central) monitored the entire operation and maintained continuous liaison with the police and field-level officials to ensure effective coordination and uninterrupted execution of the demolition drive.

The revenue and enforcement machinery was deployed extensively for the operation. Tehsildars and Naib Tehsildars (Periphery), along with Kanungos, Patwaris and enforcement staff, were present at the site and carried out the field-level enforcement action. Three JCB machines were deployed for dismantling the unauthorized structures and removing the encroachments.

Personnel from Civil Defence, U.T. Chandigarh, also assisted the administration during the operation and extended necessary support to the field teams.

The District Magistrate’s Office has reiterated its commitment to taking firm and sustained action against violations in environmentally sensitive areas and to ensuring that the Sukhna Catchment Area remains protected from unauthorized construction and encroachment.

CHB to Organise Public Camp for Conversion of *Residential* Leasehold Properties into Freehold

CHB to Organise Public Camp for Conversion of *Residential* Leasehold Properties into Freehold

Chandigarh Housing Board (CHB) is organising a public facilitation camp for allottees/owners of *residential* dwelling units and properties who wish to convert their leasehold properties into freehold.

The camp will be held from September 10 to 25, 2026, on all working days, except public holidays, from 11:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. at the Multipurpose Hall, 6th Floor, Chandigarh Housing Board, Sector 9-D, Chandigarh.

Allottees/owners are requested to attend the camp with a copy of the allotment letter/transfer deed, latest payment receipts, proof of identity and address, and other relevant documents required for processing their conversion cases.

They are also advised to check the applicable conversion charges and outstanding dues, if any, through the CHB portal at www.chbonline.in⁠ before attending the camp. This will facilitate the expeditious processing of their applications.

Public Money, Public Monitoring”: Mayor Saurabh Joshi Brings Citizens to the Centre of Chandigarh’s Development

Public Money, Public Monitoring”: Mayor Saurabh Joshi Brings Citizens to the Centre of Chandigarh’s Development

*Mayor launches Area-Level Residents’ Monitoring Initiative; citizens to keep a close watch on quality, cost and progress of civic works*

Chandigarh, September 8:

 In a significant move to strengthen transparency, accountability and people’s participation in civic development, Chandigarh Mayor Sh. Saurabh Joshi today launched an Area-Level Residents’ Monitoring Initiative, empowering citizens to directly monitor the quality and progress of development works in their respective areas.

Under the initiative, Area-Level Committees comprising eminent and technically experienced residents—including retired engineers, professors, doctors and other professionals—will regularly inspect ongoing development works and keep track of their execution.

The committees will monitor whether works are being carried out in accordance with the approved scope, specifications and allotted cost displayed by the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh at the work sites. Any deficiency, deviation or delay noticed by the committee can be brought to the attention of the concerned officials for timely corrective action.

The initiative seeks to transform residents from merely being beneficiaries of development into active stakeholders in Chandigarh’s development process.

Taking the initiative forward, Mayor Saurabh Joshi today marked the commencement of the upgradation of Joggers Park in Sector 15 and repair and renovation of fountains in parks of Sectors 15 and 24. The newly constituted Area-Level Residents’ Committee will monitor the progress and quality of these works.

«“Development is done with public money, and citizens have every right to know what is being built, how much is being spent and whether the promised quality is being delivered. Our mantra is simple—Public Money, Public Monitoring. Citizens will now become partners in ensuring quality, transparency and timely execution of development works,” said Mayor Saurabh Joshi.»

He added that the Residents’ Committees would serve as an important bridge between citizens and the Municipal Corporation, strengthening trust and accountability at the grassroots level.

The development works are aimed at improving the condition, aesthetics and facilities of public parks and creating better recreational spaces for morning walkers, joggers, senior citizens, children and other residents.

The fountain renovation project covers two fountains in Sector 15, including the Floral Sculpture Garden, and two fountains in Sector 24, at an allotted cost of ₹26.93 lakh.

The project includes improvements to lighting and water systems through submersible lights, SS-304 fixtures, automatic colour-changing controllers, new control panels, nozzles, water-column nozzles, brass ball valves and durable piping. Necessary civil repairs and tile restoration will also be undertaken. The stipulated completion period is six months.

Area-Level Residents’ Monitoring Committee

Prof. Sunil Sharma — Head of Committee

Sh. Raj Kumar Sahdev — Co-Convener

Sh. Charanjeet — Co-Convener

Sh. Rajneesh Sharma — Member

Sh. Ramesh Kumar Sood — Member

Sh. Sanjeev Bansal — Member

Sh. Prithvi Sharma, Chief Engineer — Member

Sh. Jasjeet Singh Bhalla — Member

Sh. Gurpreet Singh Mokha — Member

Sh. Krishan — Member

Er. S.K. Gupta — Member

The committee will periodically inspect the works, assess progress against the displayed specifications and approved cost, interact with executing officials and communicate residents’ feedback wherever necessary.

The programme was attended by public representatives of Chandigarh and officers and officials of the Municipal Corporation.

Mayor Saurabh Joshi said the initiative would be progressively extended across Chandigarh as a citizen-centric monitoring mechanism for development works, making public participation an integral part of the city’s development model.

DC Chairs 26th District Road Safety Committee Meeting; Directs Time-Bound Action on Road Safety Measures

DC Chairs 26th District Road Safety Committee Meeting; Directs Time-Bound Action on Road Safety Measures

Chandigarh, August 18:

 The 26th meeting of the District Road Safety Committee (DRSC) was held today under the chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner, Chandigarh,  Nishant Kumar Yada. The meeting was attended by the Senior Superintendent of Police (Traffic) and representatives of various stakeholder departments, including the Engineering Department, Municipal Corporation Chandigarh, Chandigarh Traffic Police, Health Department and other allied agencies.

During the meeting, the Committee approved the Comprehensive Security Plan of the Capitol Complex, Sector-1, Chandigarh, as proposed by the Chief Architect, Department of Urban Planning, Chandigarh Administration.

The Committee was also apprised of the progress under the PM Rahat Scheme for cashless treatment of road accident victims. It was informed that since the launch of the scheme, 30 cases have been registered on the TMS 2.0 portal, of which 21 cases have been approved.

Reviewing road safety infrastructure in the city, the Deputy Commissioner directed that the installation of grills in the median at the Sector 29/30 Light Point be completed within two months. The work for installation of 195 blinkers at 61 locations across V-3, V-4 and V-5 roads was also directed to be completed within one month.

The Committee further directed the concerned departments to ensure installation of Adaptive Traffic Control (ATC) lights at Dhanas Bridge, Matka Chowk and the Industrial Area Phase-I/Baltana turn. The road widening works at the Airport Light Point were also reviewed, with directions to complete the same within the stipulated timeframe.

The Committee reviewed the action taken pursuant to the joint spot inspection of 83 fatal road crash locations across the city. It was informed that the recommended road safety measures have been implemented at 16 and 26 locations, respectively, falling under the two concerned Circle Divisions. The concerned authorities were directed to expedite implementation of the remaining safety recommendations.

Taking note of encroachments and traffic-related issues around PGIMER, the Deputy Commissioner directed the SDM (Central) to carry out regular enforcement drives against encroachments in the area. Chandigarh Traffic Police was directed to conduct special drives against unauthorised parking of vehicles on roads to ensure smooth movement of traffic and prevent obstruction to road users.

The Deputy Commissioner directed all stakeholder departments to take coordinated and time-bound action on the decisions taken during the meeting. He particularly emphasised the need to ensure the safety of pedestrians and directed the concerned departments to accord priority to pedestrian-friendly road infrastructure and enforcement measures.

Launch of a five-day residential training program for ATL teachers in Haryana

Launch of a five-day residential training program for ATL teachers in Haryana

Panchkula, August 18 

A five-day residential training programme for teachers associated with Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) in Haryana was inaugurated  at the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (NITTTR), Sector-26, Chandigarh.

The inaugural session was graced by Sh. Vijay Singh Dahiya, Principal Secretary, School Education, Haryana, as the Chief Guest. Sh. Bhola Ram Gurjar, Director, NITTTR, and Sh. Swapnil Ravindra Patil were also present on the occasion.

The training programme is being organised for 40 teachers from schools having Atal Tinkering Labs with the objective of strengthening their professional and practical competencies in emerging areas of Science, Technology and Innovation. The five-day residential training programme is being conducted upto 21 August 2026.

Addressing the participants, Sh. Vijay Singh Dahiya, Principal Secretary, School Education, Haryana, highlighted the importance of preparing teachers to meet the changing needs of school education in the era of technology and innovation. He emphasised that Atal Tinkering Labs should not remain limited to infrastructure and equipment, but should become active centres of creativity, experimentation, problem-solving and innovation for students.

The training provides teachers with hands-on exposure to areas including Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Coding and Computational Thinking, Astronomy, emerging technologies, innovation-based learning and effective utilisation of Atal Tinkering Lab facilities. The programme is designed to enable teachers to guide students in developing innovative ideas, undertaking projects, creating prototypes and participating in scientific and technological activities.

Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Bhola Ram Gurjar, Director, NITTTR, welcomed the participants and emphasised the importance of practical and experiential approaches in technology education. He highlighted the role of teachers as facilitators who can encourage students to explore, experiment and develop solutions to real-life problems.

Sh. Swapnil Ravindra Patil also addressed the participating teachers and encouraged them to make effective use of the training and subsequently share the knowledge and skills acquired with students and fellow teachers in their respective schools.

The programme is part of the State's efforts to strengthen 21st-century skills, STEM education, innovation and technology-enabled learning in Government schools. Through capacity building of teachers, the initiative seeks to create a stronger ecosystem for nurturing scientific temper, creativity and problem-solving skills among students.

The participating teachers will be expected to effectively utilise the knowledge and practical skills gained during the training in their respective Atal Tinkering Labs and encourage students to take up innovative, project-based and experiential learning activities. The initiative is expected to further strengthen the culture of innovation and technology-enabled learning across Government schools of Haryana.

सहकारिता विभाग की भव्य तिरंगा यात्रा में गूंजा राष्ट्रभक्ति का संदेश

सहकारिता विभाग की भव्य तिरंगा यात्रा में गूंजा राष्ट्रभक्ति का संदेश

सहकारिता मंत्री डॉ. अरविंद कुमार शर्मा ने तिरंगा यात्रा को दिखाई हरी झंडी, 500 से अधिक अधिकारियों-कर्मचारियों ने लिया हिस्सा

सहकारिता एकता और सामूहिक शक्ति का प्रतीक, विकसित हरियाणा और विकसित भारत के निर्माण में निभाएगी अहम भूमिका’ - डॉ. अरविंद कुमार शर्मा

पंचकूला 17 अगस्त:    हर घर तिरंगा अभियान-2026 के अंतर्गत आज सहकारिता विभाग, हरियाणा द्वारा सैक्टर-2 पंचकूला स्थित सहकारिता मुख्यालय से भव्य तिरंगा यात्रा का आयोजन किया गया।    

     प्रातः 11:00 बजे आयोजित इस राष्ट्रभक्ति से ओतप्रोत कार्यक्रम में हरियाणा के सहकारिता मंत्री डॉ. अरविंद कुमार शर्मा ने मुख्य अतिथि के रूप में शिरकत की और तिरंगा यात्रा को हरी झंडी दिखाकर रवाना किया। तिरंगा यात्रा में सहकारिता विभाग एवं प्रदेश की विभिन्न सहकारी संस्थाओं के 500 से अधिक अधिकारियों एवं कर्मचारियों ने हाथों में तिरंगा लेकर पूरे उत्साह और जोश के साथ भाग लिया। भारत माता के जयघोष और देशभक्ति की भावना से सराबोर इस यात्रा ने सहकारिता परिवार की राष्ट्र के प्रति प्रतिबद्धता का संदेश दिया।

कार्यक्रम में प्रदेश की प्रमुख सहकारी संस्थाओं के चेयरमैन विशिष्ट अतिथि के रूप में उपस्थित रहे। इनमें हरको बैंक चेयरमैन श्री भारत भूषण जूयाल, एच.एस.सी.ए.आर.डी.बी चेयरमैन श्री सुभाष कलसाना, लेबरफैड चेयरमैन श्री देवेंद्र पंचाल तथा हाउसफैड चेयरमैन श्री सुभाष बंसल शामिल रहे।

इस अवसर पर रजिस्ट्रार सहकारी समितियां हरियाणा डॉ. शुभिता ढाका, शुगरफैड के प्रबंध निदेशक कैप्टन शक्ति सिंह, हैफेड के सचिव श्री प्रदीप अहलावत, सहित प्रदेश की विभिन्न सहकारी संस्थाओं के प्रबंध निदेशक, वरिष्ठ अधिकारी एवं कर्मचारी बड़ी संख्या में मौजूद रहे।

*‘तिरंगा हमारी आन, बान और शान का प्रतीक’: डॉ. अरविंद कुमार शर्मा*

सहकारिता मंत्री डॉ. अरविंद कुमार शर्मा ने अपने संबोधन में कहा कि तिरंगा भारत की आन, बान और शान का प्रतीक है। इसमें देश की एकता, अखंडता, त्याग, वीरता और करोड़ों देशवासियों की भावनाएं समाहित हैं। हर घर तिरंगा अभियान प्रत्येक भारतीय को राष्ट्र के प्रति अपने गौरव और जिम्मेदारी को व्यक्त करने का अवसर प्रदान करता है।

उन्होंने कहा कि सहकारिता और राष्ट्रनिर्माण की भावना एक-दूसरे से जुड़ी हुई हैं। जिस प्रकार तिरंगा देश की एकता का प्रतीक है, उसी प्रकार सहकारिता भी ‘एकता में शक्ति’ के सिद्धांत पर आधारित है। जब किसान, श्रमिक, महिलाएं और समाज के विभिन्न वर्ग एकजुट होकर सामूहिक रूप से आगे बढ़ते हैं, तो आर्थिक एवं सामाजिक विकास की गति कई गुना बढ़ जाती है। 

उन्होनें कहा कि प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेंद्र मोदी और केंद्रीय सहकारिता मंत्री श्री अमित शाह  के नेतृत्व तथा मुख्यमंत्री श्री नायब सिंह सैनी के मार्गदर्शन में देश और प्रदेश में सहकारिता आंदोलन को नई मजबूती मिली है। सहकारिता क्षेत्र को आधुनिक, पारदर्शी और जन-केंद्रित बनाते हुए इसे ग्रामीण अर्थव्यवस्था तथा आमजन की आर्थिक मजबूती का महत्वपूर्ण आधार बनाया जा रहा है। हरियाणा में सहकारिता विभाग और सहकारी संस्थाएं किसानों, ग्रामीणों, महिलाओं, युवाओं तथा समाज के विभिन्न वर्गों को आर्थिक रूप से सशक्त बनाने के लिए निरंतर कार्य कर रही हैं। पैक्स के माध्यम से महिलाओं को नई जिम्मेदारियां और अवसर प्रदान किए जा रहे हैं, जिससे सहकारिता के क्षेत्र में महिला शक्ति की भागीदारी और अधिक मजबूत हो रही है।

 आज निकाली गई तिरंगा यात्रा केवल राष्ट्रभक्ति का प्रदर्शन नहीं, बल्कि सहकारिता के माध्यम से एकजुट होकर प्रदेश और देश के विकास में योगदान देने का संकल्प है। उन्होंने अधिकारियों एवं कर्मचारियों का आह्वान किया कि वे सहकारिता की योजनाओं और सेवाओं का लाभ समाज के अंतिम व्यक्ति तक पहुंचाने के लिए पूरी निष्ठा एवं समर्पण के साथ कार्य करें।

*महिला कर्मचारियों को तीज एवं रक्षाबंधन की दी शुभकामनाएं*

सहकारिता मंत्री ने तिरंगा यात्रा में उत्साहपूर्वक भाग लेने वाली सभी महिला अधिकारियों एवं कर्मचारियों को तीज तथा रक्षाबंधन के पावन पर्व की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं प्रेषित कीं। उन्होंने कहा कि तीज और रक्षाबंधन जैसे पर्व हमारी समृद्ध भारतीय संस्कृति, पारिवारिक मूल्यों, भाई-बहन के स्नेह तथा सामाजिक सौहार्द की भावना को मजबूत करते हैं।

*‘सहकारिता जागरूकता अभियान के माध्यम से जन-जन तक पहुंच रहा विभाग’: डॉ. शुभिता ढाका*

इस अवसर पर रजिस्ट्रार सहकारी समितियां हरियाणा डॉ. शुभिता ढाका, ने सहकारिता मंत्री डॉ. अरविंद कुमार शर्मा का तिरंगा यात्रा में मुख्य अतिथि के रूप में शामिल होने तथा यात्रा को हरी झंडी दिखाने के लिए आभार व्यक्त किया। उन्होंने कहा कि सहकारिता विभाग द्वारा प्रदेशभर में सहकारिता जागरूकता अभियान चलाया जा रहा है। इस अभियान का उद्देश्य सहकारिता आंदोलन को जन-जन तक पहुंचाना तथा आम लोगों को सहकारी संस्थाओं के माध्यम से संचालित विभिन्न जनहितकारी योजनाओं एवं सेवाओं की जानकारी उपलब्ध करवाना है।

डॉ. ढाका ने कहा कि विभाग द्वारा प्रदेश के हर कोने और गांव-गांव तक पहुंचकर लोगों को सहकारिता से जोड़ने का कार्य किया जा रहा है। लोगों को सहकारी संस्थाओं की भूमिका, उनके लाभ तथा सरकार द्वारा संचालित जनहितकारी सहकारी योजनाओं के बारे में जागरूक किया जा रहा है, ताकि अधिक से अधिक लोग सहकारिता आंदोलन का हिस्सा बनकर आर्थिक रूप से सशक्त हो सकें। विभाग का प्रयास है कि सहकारिता का लाभ समाज के अंतिम व्यक्ति तक पहुंचे और हरियाणा में सहकारिता आंदोलन को और अधिक मजबूत एवं व्यापक बनाया जाए।

पूरे आयोजन में देशभक्ति के नारों से वातावरण गूंज उठा। तिरंगा यात्रा के माध्यम से सहकारिता विभाग ने राष्ट्रप्रेम, एकता, भाईचारे और सामूहिक विकास का संदेश देते हुए यह संकल्प दोहराया कि सहकारिता के माध्यम से हरियाणा को आर्थिक रूप से और अधिक सशक्त बनाने तथा विकसित भारत के निर्माण में अपना महत्वपूर्ण योगदान देने के लिए विभाग पूरी प्रतिबद्धता के साथ कार्य करता रहेगा ।

सेक्टर 42 न्यू लेक में भव्य देशभक्ति समारोह के साथ ‘हर घर तिरंगा’ अभियान का समापन

सेक्टर 42 न्यू लेक में भव्य देशभक्ति समारोह के साथ ‘हर घर तिरंगा’ अभियान का समापन

चंडीगढ़, 17 अगस्त, 2026:

‘हर घर तिरंगा’ अभियान का आज चंडीगढ़ के सेक्टर 42 स्थित न्यू लेक में आयोजित भव्य एवं उत्साहपूर्ण समापन समारोह के साथ समापन हुआ। कार्यक्रम का आयोजन यू.टी. चंडीगढ़ प्रशासन के सांस्कृतिक कार्य विभाग तथा पर्यटन विभाग द्वारा किया गया।

पंजाब के माननीय राज्यपाल एवं यू.टी. चंडीगढ़ के प्रशासक श्री गुलाब चंद कटारिया ने मुख्य अतिथि के रूप में समारोह की शोभा बढ़ाई।

समारोह का एक प्रमुख आकर्षण बाइक एवं विंटेज कार रैली रही, जिसे प्रशासक ने औपचारिक रूप से झंडी दिखाकर रवाना किया। मोटरसाइकिलों और विंटेज कारों से सुसज्जित इस प्रभावशाली रैली ने समारोह को विशिष्ट गरिमा प्रदान की और उपस्थित लोगों ने इसका उत्साहपूर्वक स्वागत किया।

इसके उपरांत प्रशासक ने आयोजन स्थल पर लगाई गई विभिन्न प्रदर्शनियों और प्रस्तुतियों का अवलोकन किया। उन्होंने भारतीय सेना द्वारा प्रस्तुत हथियारों और ड्रोन की प्रदर्शनी के साथ-साथ आईटीबीपी द्वारा आयोजित हथियार प्रदर्शनी, कराटे प्रदर्शन और डॉग शो भी देखा।

उन्होंने विशेष रूप से ‘वंदे मातरम्’ की थीम और आधुनिक भारत की हालिया उपलब्धियों पर आधारित भव्य लाइट, लेजर एवं साउंड शो का भी अवलोकन किया। प्रकाश, ध्वनि और दृश्य प्रभावों के आकर्षक समन्वय के माध्यम से इस प्रस्तुति ने राष्ट्र की देशभक्ति की भावना को अभिव्यक्त करने के साथ-साथ हाल के वर्षों में भारत की उल्लेखनीय प्रगति और उपलब्धियों की यात्रा को भी प्रभावशाली ढंग से प्रस्तुत किया।

विभिन्न संगीत एवं नृत्य प्रस्तुतियों ने भी समारोह को और अधिक जीवंत बनाया। इन प्रस्तुतियों में देश की समृद्ध विरासत, एकता और राष्ट्रीय गौरव की झलक देखने को मिली तथा समापन समारोह में विशेष उत्साह का संचार हुआ।

भारतीय सेना और आईटीबीपी की भागीदारी कार्यक्रम के प्रमुख आकर्षणों में रही। उनके प्रभावशाली प्रदर्शनों ने नागरिकों को देश के सशस्त्र एवं सुरक्षा बलों के शौर्य, अनुशासन, तत्परता और सेवा भावना को निकट से देखने का अवसर प्रदान किया।

समारोह में नागरिकों ने उत्साहपूर्वक भाग लिया और इस आयोजन ने राष्ट्रीय एकता, देशभक्ति तथा तिरंगे के प्रति गौरव के संदेश को और सुदृढ़ किया। नागरिकों, संस्थानों, सशस्त्र एवं सुरक्षा बलों तथा सांस्कृतिक कलाकारों की सहभागिता ने इस अवसर को चंडीगढ़ में ‘हर घर तिरंगा’ अभियान का यादगार और गरिमापूर्ण समापन बना दिया।

इस अवसर पर गृह सचिव श्री मंदीप सिंह बराड़; वित्त सचिव श्री दिप्रवा लाकड़ा; सचिव, विज्ञान एवं प्रौद्योगिकी श्री सौरभ कुमार; सचिव, आतिथ्य श्री स्वप्निल एम. नाईक; सचिव, सहकारिता श्री मोहम्मद मंसूर एल.; सीएसएस सचिव, श्रम एवं रोजगार सुश्री अनुराधा एस. चागती तथा चंडीगढ़ प्रशासन के अन्य वरिष्ठ अधिकारी उपस्थित रहे।

‘वंदे मातरम्’ की भावना को समर्पित यह समापन समारोह अभियान का एक सार्थक और गरिमापूर्ण समापन सिद्ध हुआ, जिसमें राष्ट्रीय ध्वज के सम्मान के साथ-साथ आधुनिक भारत के सामूहिक गौरव, प्रगति और आकांक्षाओं का भी उत्सव मनाया गया।

Independence Day Celebrations at GJIMT with great enthusiasm

Independence Day Celebrations at GJIMT with great enthusiasm

Mohali, 15 Aug

Gian Jyoti Institute of Management & Technology, Phase 2 celebrated the Independence day with great enthusiasm and fervor at its campus. J S Bedi Chairman of Gian Jyoti Group of Institutions unfurled the National Flag and took the salute.  Members of management and faculty sang patriotic songs at this occasion.

Speaking on the occasion Chairman Bedi said that Let us remember the sacrifices made by our forefathers for getting freedom of our country. The real freedom can be achieved if poverty is removed and youth are given employment. The upcoming generation should imbibe the qualities of nationalism, discipline, punctuality, dedication and positive thinking. We should celebrate our Independence Day with zeal and gusto”. He further emphasized that all the teachers should motivate the students to attain higher goals in their lives.

Director Dr. Aneet Bedi said  that  Let us on this occasion remember with gratitude, great souls who pioneered the Independence Movement and the selfless services now being rendered by the personnel of the three wings of the Armed forces and also those of the paramilitary forces, who guard our frontiers on the land, at sea and in the air. He appreciated the efforts of the staff and students. Later on sweets were distributed.

 

MC Commissioner reviews preparedness of citywide Deep Cleaning Drive Ahead of Independence Day

MC Commissioner reviews preparedness of citywide Deep Cleaning Drive Ahead of Independence Day

Chandigarh, August 5:-

In preparation for the forthcoming Independence Day celebrations, the Commissioner Municipal Corporation Chandigarh Sh. Amit Kumar, IAS convened a high-level review meeting to finalize arrangements for a citywide Deep Cleaning Drive aimed at ensuring a clean, green and hygienic urban environment.

The Commissioner announced that the intensive Deep Cleaning Drive will be conducted from August 8 to August 16, 2026, as part of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign. He emphasized that every department must work in close coordination to enhance sanitation, beautification and maintenance of public spaces so that Chandigarh reflects the true spirit of patriotism and civic pride during the national celebrations.

Senior officers from the Chandigarh Administration, Municipal Corporation, Chandigarh Police, Engineering Wings and other stakeholder departments attended the meeting. Detailed directions were issued for coordinated action, intensive cleanliness operations, waste removal, road and public area maintenance, and regular monitoring to ensure that residents and visitors experience a spotless, well-maintained and welcoming city throughout the Independence Day festivities.

MC Chief Engineer reviews development works, strengthens Ward Monitoring for faster civic services

MC Chief Engineer reviews development works, strengthens Ward Monitoring for faster civic services

*Chandigarh, August 5 

Reinforcing the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh's commitment to responsive governance and timely execution of development works, Chief Engineer Sh. Sanjay Arora today chaired a comprehensive ward-wise review meeting with councillors and senior engineering officials to assess the progress of ongoing projects and address civic issues in Wards No. 7, 8, 11, 24, 25 and 26.

The meeting was attended by the concerned area councillors, Executive Engineers and officials of various engineering wings of the Municipal Corporation.

Detailed deliberations were held on ward-specific development works, including road infrastructure, public health, water supply, sewerage, street lighting, sanitation and other civic amenities. The councillors highlighted local issues and public grievances requiring immediate attention.

The Chief Engineer directed the concerned Executive Engineers to expedite all ongoing development works and ensure their completion within the stipulated timeframe while maintaining quality standards. He emphasized that public grievances must be addressed promptly through regular field inspections and close coordination with elected representatives.

Reiterating the importance of the Municipal Corporation's Ward review mechanism, the Chief Engineer said such interactions enable better coordination, faster decision-making and effective monitoring of development projects, ensuring efficient delivery of civic services and improved public satisfaction across the city.

MC Commissioner Amit Kumar leads Van Mahotsav plantation drive at sector 10

MC Commissioner Amit Kumar leads Van Mahotsav plantation drive at sector 10 park, calls for collective efforts towards a greener Chandigarh

Chandigarh, August 2:-

Resident Welfare Association (RWA) organised a Van Mahotsav plantation programme today at Park No. 1, Sector 10-D, Chandigarh, reaffirming its commitment to enhancing the city's green cover and promoting environmental sustainability.

Sh. Amit Kumar, IAS, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation Chandigarh, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The programme was attended by Ms. Kanwardeep Kaur, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Chandigarh, Sh. Maheshinder Singh Sidhu, Councillor, Sh. Sanjay Arora, Chief Engineer, MC Chandigarh, Mrs. Mona Narang, Principal, DAV College, Chandigarh, along with Resident Welfare Association (RWA) members, local residents and a large number of school children.

On the occasion, the dignitaries planted saplings and appealed to citizens to actively participate in protecting and nurturing trees for a cleaner, greener and healthier Chandigarh. The Commissioner emphasised that tree plantation is not merely a one-day activity but a continuous commitment towards environmental conservation. He urged residents, especially the younger generation, to take responsibility for caring for the saplings and preserving the city's rich green heritage.

The plantation drive witnessed enthusiastic participation from residents and children, who joined hands with Municipal Corporation officials in planting saplings and spreading awareness about the importance of environmental protection. The event also highlighted the role of community participation in making Chandigarh more sustainable and climate resilient.

Prize Distribution Ceremony for the winners of the Essay Writing Competition on "Energy Conservation and Energy Efficiency

Chandigarh, July 31, 2026: The Energy Management Cell (EMC)/SDA, Engineering Department, U.T. Chandigarh, today organized the Prize Distribution Ceremony for the winners of the Essay Writing Competition on "Energy Conservation and Energy Efficiency", which was conducted earlier on the occasion of World Environment Day 2026. The competition was organized to create awareness among employees regarding the importance of energy conservation, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

The prizes were distributed by Er. C.B. Ojha, Chief Engineer, U.T. Chandigarh who congratulated the winners and appreciated their valuable contributions towards promoting energy conservation. He emphasized that awareness and behavioural change are key to achieving sustainable energy use.

The winners of the competition are, First Prize, Sh. Jatin Bisht, Clerk, Electrical Wing, Second Prize: Sh. Harpreet Singh, Junior Engineer, Electricity Wing (SLDC), Third Prize: Sh. Raman Kumar, Junior Engineer, Electricity Wing (STU).

Er. Pawan Kumar Sharma, Head, Energy Management Cell (EMC)/State Designated Agency (SDA), was also present on the occasion. He congratulated the winners and encouraged all participants to adopt energy-efficient practices in their professional and personal lives.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates and prizes to the winners, reaffirming the commitment of the Engineering Department, U.T. Chandigarh, towards promoting energy conservation and environmental sustainability through continuous awareness initiatives.

Prime Minister to Virtually Address Youth under ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan

Prime Minister to Virtually Address Youth under ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan’ on 2nd August 2026

Chandigarh, 31 July 2026: MY Bharat, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, in collaboration with the Chandigarh Administration, is organising this programme under the nationwide ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan’ on Sunday, 2nd August 2026 at Tagore Theatre, Chandigarh.

The campaign aims to mobilise youth against substance abuse and promote a healthy, responsible and drug-free lifestyle through awareness, sports, culture and community participation, contributing towards the vision of Nasha Mukt Bharat and Viksit Bharat@2047.

A major highlight of the programme will be the virtual address by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to youth across the country. The nationwide programme is expected to connect around 10,000 locations and engage more than one crore youth, including MY Bharat volunteers, MY Bharat-NSS volunteers, Youth Clubs, students of schools, colleges and universities, NGOs and partner organisations.

Participants will collectively take the Nasha Mukti Pledge and commit themselves to a drug-free lifestyle. The programme will also mark the launch of a 100-week nationwide Sunday engagement campaign, featuring sports, fitness, cultural, awareness, mindfulness and community outreach activities.

As part of the campaign, district-level competitions in Group Dance, Group folk songs, mime acts, short films/reels, painting, debate and slogan writing are also being organised on 3rd August 2026 at Dev Samaj College for Women, Sector 45

MY Bharat Chandigarh and Chandigarh Administration have appealed to students, educational institutions, youth organisations, NGOs and citizens to actively participate and strengthen the collective resolve for a Nasha Mukt Bharat.

Adult Gharial rescued from Indira Gandhi Canal in Jaisalmer, released in Punjab's Beas River CR

Adult Gharial rescued from Indira Gandhi Canal in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan and brought back for rehabilitating and release in Punjab's Beas River CR

An adult male/female Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), measuring over 12 feet in length, has been successfully rescued from the Indira Gandhi Canal Project (IGNP) in Rajasthan after nearly five months of coordinated monitoring across multiple districts. The animal has been safely transported to Chhatbir Zoo, Punjab, where it will undergo health assessment, rehabilitation and acclimatisation before its planned release into the Beas River Conservation Reserve.

The rescue operation is the culmination of sustained coordination between the Forest Departments of Rajasthan and Punjab, wildlife experts, and field teams that continuously tracked the animal's movements through the extensive canal network.

Background

Punjab has emerged as an important landscape for the conservation of the Critically Endangered Gharial. 94 juvenile Gharial were successfully reintroduced into the Beas River Conservation Reserve through a collaborative conservation programme led by the Punjab Forest Department with technical support from WWF-India and other partner institutions. Since the reintroduction, released individuals have been regularly monitored through scientific surveys and field observations, with encouraging evidence of survival, dispersal and adaptation to the Beas Harike Sutlej River ecosystem.

The rehabilitation and release of rescued Gharials to suitable habitats is an important component of strengthening the recovering population in the Beas River while contributing to the long-term conservation of the species in north-western India.

Rescue Timeline

• The first information regarding the presence of the Gharial in IGNP was received when Chief Wildlife Warden, Rajasthan contacted Chief Wildlife Warden, Punjab on 14 March 2026, following a brief sighting of the animal on 13 March in the Indira Gandhi Canal within Ganganagar district and requested that a rescue team may be sent from Punjab as Rajasthan has very little experience in the rescue and rehabilitation of gharials. Initial assessments and review of photographs and videos indicated that the adult Gharial was moving along an approximately 25 km stretch of the canal, both upstream and downstream. Although rescue efforts were considered, the operation could not be initiated due to the high volume and velocity of water being released through the canal for Rabi irrigation, coupled with the continuous movement of the animal.

• On 5 May 2026, the Gharial was sighted again near the border of Ganganagar and Bikaner districts in the main IGNP canal. Water conditions were comparatively favourable, and all necessary permissions for the rescue operation were secured. However, just before the Punjab Forest Department rescue team commenced its rescue operation, the animal was reported to have moved further downstream. In the absence of confirmed sightings over the following days by the Rajasthan Forest Department, the rescue operation was temporarily suspended until the animal could be relocated.

• The Gharial was sighted once again towards the end of June 2026 in the IGNP Stage-II canal, further downstream from its previous location. Despite confirmation of its presence, rescue could not be attempted as the canal continued to carry a strong current and a high volume of water, making capture unsafe for both the animal and the rescue team.

• On 27 July 2026, the animal was finally located in the Mohangarh Minor in Jaisalmer district, where water levels and flow conditions were suitable the adult Gharial, measuring more than 12 feet in length was successfully rescued. 

• Following the successful rescue, the adult Gharial was temporarily housed at Rajasthan Forest Department Facility in Mohangarh, Rajasthan, where it underwent initial rehabilitation, veterinary examination and health assessment. After being certified fit for transport and following established safety protocols of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and IUCN guidelines for crocodilian capture, handling and transportation, the animal was safely transferred to Chhatbir Zoo, Punjab, for further rehabilitation, acclimatisation and comprehensive health screening. 

• Following assessment and approval by wildlife authorities, the animal is proposed to be released into the Beas River Conservation Reserve, further strengthening the recovering Gharial population in Punjab.

Conservation Significance

This successful rescue demonstrates the importance of sustained inter-state collaboration among the Forest Departments, continuous field surveillance by the field teams, guidance by the subject experts and rapid coordination among wildlife managers of Rajasthan and Punjab. Large river reptiles such as Gharials frequently move through interconnected river and canal systems, making coordinated conservation efforts across state boundaries essential for their long-term survival.

The proposed release into the Beas River Conservation Reserve represents another significant milestone in the ongoing recovery of one of India's most endangered freshwater reptiles and reinforces the commitment of the Punjab Forest Department and its conservation partners (WWF-India) towards securing viable populations of Gharials in the north-western region of the country.

Government Polytechnic for Women Secures Grade A Accreditation from QCI, Ranks 6th Nationally

Government Polytechnic for Women Secures Grade A Accreditation from QCI, Ranks 6th Nationally

Chandigarh:

Government Polytechnic for Women, Sector 10-D, Chandigarh, has achieved a major milestone by securing Grade A, the highest accreditation awarded by the Quality Council of India (QCI) through the National Accreditation Board for Education and Training (NABET) for its Diploma in Pharmacy programme during the institutional assessment for the academic year 2025–26.

The accreditation was awarded following a rigorous three-stage evaluation comprising a desktop assessment, an on-site assessment and the overall institutional performance. The assessment process was undertaken under the guidance of the Secretary, Technical Education and the Directorate of Technical Education, Chandigarh Administration.

With this achievement, the institute has secured the 6th rank at the national level and emerged as the top-ranked institution in North India, including Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan, under the accreditation framework.

Headed by Principal Mrs. Vin Dosajh, the institute offers six diploma programmes with a strong focus on skill development and women’s empowerment. Guided by its vision, “To incorporate competent skills in women to create a culture par excellence,” the institution continues to prepare industry-ready professionals through quality technical education.

QCI assesses institutions against stringent benchmarks covering academic excellence, outcome-based education, governance, innovation and continuous quality improvement. Securing Grade A reflects the institute’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards in technical education.

The achievement is a result of the dedicated efforts of the institute’s faculty, staff, students, leadership and all stakeholders who have collectively contributed towards fostering a culture of excellence.