Chandigarh, April 15, 2026

A Fire Safety Training Workshop was organised at Civil Hospital Sector 45 Chandigarh. A live demonstration on the proper use of fire extinguishers and fire hydrants was conducted during the session.

The workshop was jointly organised by Fire Station Sector 32 Chandigarh, and the Fire Awareness & Safety Association (FASA) as part of the series of events held to mark Fire Service Week 2026.

Jasjyot Singh Almast, Founder President, FASA, stated that fire safety is not just a compliance requirement but a collective responsibility. “Through this workshop, our aim is to equip citizens, volunteers, and institutional staff with practical knowledge of fire prevention, evacuation procedures and the correct use of firefighting equipment,” he said.

Sub Fire Officer Jasmit Singh urged all participants to take a pledge to make fire safety a habit, not an afterthought. He added that a few minutes of training today can save lives tomorrow. Mange Ram and Joginder Singh Leading Firemen demonstrated the use of Fire extinguishers with the assistance of Fireman Nitin.

Dr Anjali Gupta, Senior Medical Officer, Incharge and Dr Shefali Nodal Officer Fire, Civil Hospital Sector  45 Chandigarh in a joint statement said that their institution remains committed to building a safer community through awareness, training and collaboration

Chandigarh:

World Health Day 2026 was celebrated by Local Branch of Indian Public Health Association(IPHA), Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh in collaboration with  National Institute of Nursing Education(NINE), PGIMER, Chandigarh  on the theme ‘Together for Health: Stand with Science’ on 13^th April 2026. Dr. Sukhpal Kaur, Vice President IPHA formally welcomed the Guests, speakers and participants. The Event was inaugurated by Prof. RK Ratho, Dean (Academics), PGIMER Chandigarh, who emphasized the importance of the “One Health” for overall well-being. While unfolding the theme, Prof. J. S. Thakur, President, IPHA local Branch PGIMER, Chandigarh highlighted the significance of evidence based health science and the need for scientific collaboration. He stressed adopting a One Health approach to safeguard the people, animals and planet.

   A panel discussion was also held with the theme. The panelists delved on the different aspects of One Health approach. Dr. VikasGautam, Professor, Department of Microbiology, PGIMER, Chandigarh delved on the role of antimicrobial resistance in the One Health approach. Dr. Joseph Mathew, Professor, Department of Paediatrics, PGIMER, Chandigarh highlighted the evidence synthesis for disease control.

Dr. GB Singh, former advisor, NHSRC, New Delhi emphasizes on advocacy for healthy public health policy. Dr. SushmaKumari Saini, Prof. NINE, PGIMER highlighted the role of the nurse in promoting one’s health. Dr. GS Chauhan, State Branch, Chandigarh discussed the role of public health professionals in one health.

Prof. J. S Thakur moderated the Panel Discussion. To conclude it was discussed that only through coordinated efforts can we build a healthier, safer and more resilient world for future generations.

                                             Approximately 150 participants from different departments of PGIMER, Chandigarh attended the programme.Programme Concluded with concluding remarks by Dr. Kavita , secretary, Local branch, IPHA and  vote of thanks by Dr. Sushma K. Saini, Assoc. Prof, NINE, PGIMER, Chandigarh.

Chandigarh, April 15, 2026: As Akshaya Tritiya approaches on April 19, a day considered highly auspicious for making investments that are believed to grow and endure, Kultivated Karats is presenting a modern alternative to traditional gold buying — lab-grown diamonds at its store in NAC, Manimajra.

Highlighting this shift, founder Kultivated Karats  and a lab grown diamonds expert, Deepak Gupta says, “Akshaya Tritiya has always been about beginning something enduring — and that is precisely what a lab-grown diamond represents. Lab-grown diamonds are the future of fine jewellery. They offer the same certified brilliance as mined diamonds, while aligning with the values of today’s conscious, informed buyer. A woman today is not just purchasing jewellery; she is making a statement about who she is — and lab-grown diamonds give her that power with no compromise on quality, beauty, or ethics.”

To celebrate the occasion, Kultivated Karats has announced an exclusive Akshaya Tritiya offer of up to ₹11,000 off per carat on certified lab-grown diamonds, available for a limited period. Each piece is bespoke and made-to-order, combining personalized design with IGI/GIA-certified diamonds — making it a rare opportunity to invest in fine jewellery at exceptional value.

Traditionally associated with gold purchases, Akshaya Tritiya symbolizes prosperity, abundance, and the promise of growth. However, evolving consumer preferences are redefining what constitutes a meaningful investment. Increasingly, buyers — especially millennials and Gen Z — are seeking options that combine financial prudence with ethical responsibility.

Lab-grown diamonds answer this demand. Created using advanced processes such as Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) and High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT), they are real diamonds — identical to mined ones in composition, appearance, and grading standards. Certified by leading institutions and evaluated on the same 4Cs — cut, colour, clarity, and carat — they offer a more sustainable and accessible choice without compromising on luxury.

With this offering, Kultivated Karats brings together the timeless significance of Akshaya Tritiya and the forward-looking appeal of lab-grown diamonds — encouraging buyers to invest in something that is not only beautiful and enduring, but also aligned with the values of a new generation.

Panchkula, April 15, 2026

The Purushottam Das Rungta Charitable Trust organized its 211th ‘Ann Bhandara’ , or community food distribution, with deep reverence and a spirit of selfless service. This event was held in the Panchkula Industrial Area, Phase-1, under the leadership of the Trust’s founder and social worker, Amitabh Rungta.

Speaking on the occasion, Amitabh Rungta stated that we should express our gratitude to nature and extend our assistance to those in need. He said that the month of April is considered auspicious for visiting temples and offering prayers to Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi, or Lord Hanuman. Furthermore, organizing an ‘Ann Bhandara’ for the needy is regarded as a highly meritorious act.

All members of the Purushottam Das Rungta Charitable Trust were present during the Bhandara and distributed food to the people with utmost dedication.

Chandigarh

On the auspicious occasion of the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, a grand, inspiring, and dignified event was organized in Narnaul. Eminent citizens, social workers, youth, and a large number of people enthusiastically participated in the program and paid tribute to Baba Saheb. The entire venue was decorated with Baba Saheb’s thoughts, portraits, and inspirational slogans, creating an atmosphere filled with social awareness 

On this occasion, Rao Narendra Singh attended as the Chief Guest and Member of Parliament Karmveer Singh Bauddh as the Guest of Honour, enhancing the dignity of the event. Both leaders were warmly welcomed by the organizers with garlands and mementos.

The program began with floral tributes and garlanding of Baba Saheb’s statue. Thereafter, speakers highlighted Baba Saheb’s life, struggles, education, and his historic contributions. Cultural performances were also presented to spread his ideas among the masses, which were highly appreciated by the audience.

Addressing the gathering, Rao Narendra Singh said that Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar was not only a great jurist but also a pioneer of social revolution. He added that Baba Saheb dedicated his entire life to bringing the deprived and oppressed sections of society into the mainstream. His life teaches us that real change in society is possible only through education, organization, and struggle. He urged the youth to imbibe Baba Saheb’s ideals and promote equality, education, and awareness in society.

Member of Parliament Karmveer Singh Bauddh, in his address, stated that the Constitution of India, framed by Baba Saheb, is the strong foundation of the country’s unity, integrity, and democracy. He said that it is the collective responsibility of all of us to fulfill Baba Saheb’s vision of ensuring equal rights for every section of society. He further emphasized that social harmony, brotherhood, and equal opportunities are the true essence of Baba Saheb’s ideology, which we must adopt in our lives.

During the program, representatives of various social organizations also expressed their views and pledged to carry forward Baba Saheb’s ideals. A large number of youth and women actively participated, making the event resemble a mass movement.

At the conclusion of the program, all attendees collectively pledged to follow the path shown by Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, eliminate social discrimination, and strengthen equality, justice, and brotherhood in society. The event concluded successfully, and the organizers expressed gratitude to all guests and attendees. On this occasion, Mahendragarh District President Satveer Yadav Jhukia, along with several office bearers and Congress workers, were also present.

Chandigarh, April 14

Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition, Bhupinder Singh Hooda has termed the new Gazette notification issued by the Central Government regarding the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) as completely anti-Haryana.
Speaking to reporters, he stated that when Haryana was carved out of Punjab, specific rules for the Board were formally established. These rules included several provisions designed to safeguard Haryana’s interests.

For instance, it was stipulated that the member in charge of Irrigation on the Board would be from Haryana, the member in charge of Power would be from Punjab, and the Chairman would not be from Himachal Pradesh. However, the new decision now states that a member from any state may occupy any of these positions. This raises apprehensions that Haryana’s rights are being trifled with, a concern underscored by the fact that this has happened in the past as well.

Hooda remarked that while the BJP government is failing to secure the SYL water for Haryana on one hand, Haryana’s interests regarding both the Bhakra water allocation and employment opportunities within the Management Board are being consistently ignored on the other.
“What is most unfortunate is that the state’s BJP government remains completely silent on this matter. Even when Haryana’s quota for recruitment within the BBMB was abolished, the state government failed to register any objection,” he pointed out.
Responding to a question regarding the SYL issue, the Leader of the Opposition noted that the Supreme Court had delivered a verdict in Haryana’s favor several years ago. “For several years now, BJP governments have been in power at both the state level in Haryana and at the Centre. Despite this, neither government is making any effort to ensure that Haryana receives its rightful share of water. This constitutes a betrayal of the people of Haryana,” he added.

Reacting to the lack of procurement in the mandis (grain markets), Hooda said the government has ensnared farmers in a web of online portals and restrictive conditions. “Farmers are required to first register on a portal to sell their produce, however, during the peak procurement season, the portal invariably crashes,” he said.

“Subsequently, a ‘gate pass’ is required, a document that cannot be generated precisely because the initial registration process remains incomplete. Even if, after days of arduous struggle, this task is finally accomplished, farmers are subsequently subjected to a myriad of conditions such as biometric verification, tractor registration numbers, background checks, and the requirement for guarantors,” he said.
“In essence, the government has established an entire mechanism designed to deprive farmers of the Minimum Support Price (MSP). The government’s intent appears to be geared more towards perpetrating scams than towards actual procurement, after all, the government committed fraud during the paddy procurement last season, followed by the potato procurement, and now, similar conspiracies are becoming apparent in the procurement of wheat and mustard as well,” he added.

Chandigarh: PGIMER Chandigarh has achieved a significant global milestone with the introduction of a first-in-the-world technique for precise management of chronic musculoskeletal pain using Fluorine-18 Sodium Fluoride (¹⁸F-NaF) PET-CT guided steroid injections.

Lauding the pathbreaking innovation, *Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, stated, *“This pioneering advancement reflects PGIMER’s continued commitment to patient-centric innovation and clinical excellence. By integrating cutting-edge functional imaging with targeted therapy, this technique has the potential to transform chronic pain management globally while remaining accessible and affordable for patients.”

Announced during a media conference by the Department of Nuclear Medicine in collaboration with the *Department of Orthopaedics, **Dr. Anish Bhattacharya, Professor & Head, Department of Nuclear Medicine, elaborating on the breakthrough, stated, *“Unlike conventional imaging, NaF PET-CT identifies metabolically active disease sites, enabling us to precisely locate the true pain generator. This ensures that treatment is directed exactly where it is needed, significantly improving outcomes.”

The multidisciplinary team behind this innovation includes Dr. Anish Bhattacharya (Professor & Head, Nuclear Medicine), Dr. Sarvdeep Singh Dhatt (Professor, Orthopaedics), Dr. Babita Ghai (Professor, Anaesthesia & Intensive Care), Dr. Rajender Kumar (Additional Professor, Nuclear Medicine), Dr. Vishal Kumar (Additional Professor, Orthopaedics), Dr. Harmandeep Singh (Additional Professor, Nuclear Medicine), and Dr. Raza Abbas Mahdi (Senior Resident, Nuclear Medicine), working collaboratively to advance precision pain therapy.

*Dr. Sarvdeep Singh Dhatt, Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, while sharing the scope of the treatment, stated, *“This novel approach addresses a long-standing challenge in pain management—accurately identifying the exact source of pain. Chronic conditions such as lumbar facet joint arthropathy, sacroiliitis, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and coccydynia often remain inadequately treated due to limitations of conventional imaging modalities.”

*Dr. Vishal Kumar, Department of Orthopaedics, PGIMER, speaking about the genesis of the technique, said, *“It all began with a debate that, despite having the best expertise, we were not doing enough for our patients. That introspection led to the development of this novel approach.”

*Dr. Rajender Kumar, Additional Professor, Department of Nuclear Medicine, detailed, *“The technique involves identifying the active pain-generating site using NaF PET-CT, followed by highly targeted steroid injection under real-time PET-CT guidance, further enhanced by robotic assistance for unmatched precision.”

Clinical outcomes from PGIMER demonstrate that nearly *84% of patients experienced significant pain relief at three months, a marked improvement over conventional approaches. Importantly, the procedure has been found to be safe, with no major complications reported, added *Dr. Rajender Kumar.

In a notable step towards affordability, the procedure costs approximately *₹1,000, with consumables around *₹500*, making it accessible to a large number of patients. Appointments are currently available within *1–2 weeks of referral.

This innovation marks a paradigm shift towards precision-guided, personalized pain therapy, offering renewed hope to patients suffering from chronic musculoskeletal pain who have not responded to conventional treatments.

The innovation is backed by robust clinical evidence published in the European Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (2026; 53:1279–1288) titled “Efficacy and safety of [18F]NaF PET/CT guided intraarticular block for lumbar facet joint and sacroiliac joint arthropathy: a single-arm phase 2 trial.”

The study reported that the primary endpoint of ≥50% pain reduction was achieved in 84% of patients, with significant improvements in disability and functional scores, and no major adverse effects—underscoring the safety and effectiveness of this novel technique.