Chandigarh, April 28, 2026
A Gunvatta Yatra on “Promotion of ISO 15189 Accreditation in Clinical Laboratories” was organized by NABL, under the aegis of the Quality Council of India (QCI), in collaboration with the Department of Medical Microbiology, PGIMER, Chandigarh.
Chief Guest Digambar Behera, President, National Academy of Medical Sciences and former Dean, PGIMER, emphasized that reliable diagnostics are central to quality healthcare and highlighted accreditation as a continuous commitment to excellence and patient safety.
The event was convened by Dr. Vikas Gautam, who was instrumental in securing NABL accreditation for the Department of Medical Microbiology in 2014, while Dr. Abhishek Sharma and the QCI team coordinated the programme. It witnessed active participation from faculty and healthcare professionals across PGIMER and the tricity, reinforcing momentum towards accreditation in clinical laboratories.
The programme aimed to sensitize laboratory professionals on ISO 15189 accreditation and its role in ensuring accuracy, reliability, and global standards in diagnostics.
PGIMER, a leading tertiary care institute, continues to advance quality-assured diagnostics, with several NABL-accredited laboratories, including department of Medical Microbiology, Hematology and the HIV laboratory under Immunopathology, while others are in progress.

Chandigarh:

Department of Transfusion Medicine PGIMER and Thalassaemic Charitable Trust (TCT) PGIMER Chandigarh successfully organized its 332nd Blood Donation Camp on April 25, 2026. The camp aimed to ensure a continuous and adequate supply of blood for thalassaemic patients and other needy individuals.

Thalassaemic Charitable Trust (TCT) is a Charitable organisation formed in 1985 to look after Thalassaemics children by their parents with the support of PGIMER. TCT organizes regular Blood Donation Camps for thalassaemics and other serious needy patients.

Hon’ble 110 voluntary blood donors donated blood in this camp. Among them, two sisters, Ms. Namita and Ms. Sangeeta, made their first-ever blood donation, extending hope to thalassaemic patients. Their courageous act stands as a true inspiration, encouraging the younger generation to step forward and serve humanity.

All blood donors were honoured with certificates, badges, and tokens of appreciation in recognition of their noble contribution. TCT made comprehensive arrangements to ensure the comfort and convenience of donors. Additionally, a dedicated Thalassemia Awareness Desk was set up to educate participants about thalassaemia and highlight the importance of regular voluntary blood donation. On this occasion, the urgent need for regular voluntary blood donation was strongly emphasized and help save precious lives that depend on timely blood support.

Prof. (Dr.) R.R. Sharma, Head, Department of Transfusion Medicine, and Shri Rajinder Kalra, Member Secretary of the Trust, expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all voluntary blood donors. They also appreciated the dedicated efforts of the teams of the Department of Transfusion Medicine and TCT PGIMER for ensuring the smooth and successful conduct of the camp.

The next 333^rd Mega Blood Donation Camp will be organized on May 2, 2026, at Blood Donation Complex PGIMER, to commemorate International Thalassemia Day by PGIMER and TCT. Senior faculty members and Heads of various Departments of PGIMER are expected to grace the occasion. Dr.RR Sharma, HOD, Deptt. of Transfusion Medicine PGIMER and Executive Committee of Thalassaemic Charitable Trust earnestly appeals to all social organizations, voluntary blood donors and other religious/social communities to kindly donate blood for thalassaemics and other serious needy patients.

CHANDIGARH: To conclude Rheumatological Diseases Awareness Month, the Department of Internal Medicine at PGIMER organized a public awareness walk from PGIMER to Sukhna Lake. The event aimed to highlight the critical role of lifestyle modifications in managing and preventing musculoskeletal disorders.

Addressing a gathering at Sukhna Lake, Prof Vivek Lal Director PGIMER, Chandigarh spoke about the importance of healthy lifestyle , exercise and healthy diet to fight the menace of Musculoskeletal diseases. He said that  such awareness initiatives are very important to increase public awareness about these diseases which impact a large part of population, and suggested that the awareness activities should begin right during childhood and school going age. He also talked about prevalence of osteoporosis, and advised everyone to quit smoking and alcohol.

Speaking on the occasion,  Prof Aman Sharma, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology division of the department of Internal Medicine at PGIMER and current President Indian Rheumatology Association talked about high prevalence of Rheumatic and musculoskeletal (RMSK) diseases in Indian population. He also highlighted the role of smoking in activation of various rheumatological diseases like Rheumatoid arthritis and bad effect of alcohol on bone health. He said that alcohol even in a very small quantity is very harmful. The fact that various diverse medical conditions can present with ‘arthritis’ it is imperative to seek opinion from the rheumatology experts for timely and appropriate treatment. He highlighted the importance of healthy lifestyle and incorporation of some form of exercised in day to day living.

Prof Aman informed that this walk was held as a part of nationwide activity of Indian Rheumatology association to increase awareness about rheumatological and musculoskeletal diseases.

The awareness walk was flagged off from Nehru Hospital by Prof. Sanjay Jain (Dean Research), Mr. Pankaj Rai (Deputy Director), and Dr. Vipin Kaushal (Medical Superintendent). The event saw enthusiastic participation from over 200 individuals, including PGI faculty, residents, staff, patients, members of vasculitis society and common public.

CHANDIGARH/BATHINDA, April 26:

The first cry should bring relief. But sometimes, it brings silence instead. At Aggarwal Hospital in Rampura Phul, District Bathinda, a newborn had already arrived; but the fight for life had just begun.

Born at just 33 weeks, the baby of Resham Singh and Gurmail Kaur entered the world too early, too fragile. Weighing only 1.926 kg, far below the normal full-term weight of around 2.5 to 4 kg, the newborn struggled from the very first breath. Severe respiratory distress meant that breathing was not possible without medical support. Inside the hospital, there was no time to lose.

Dr. Surender Aggarwal (MD Pediatric), with 24 years of experience, and his team acted immediately. The baby was shifted to the NICU, where machines supported what the underdeveloped lungs could not yet perform. Monitors tracked every heartbeat and every breath, each moment uncertain, each moment critical.

What followed were 17 days of continuous care, patience, and precision. The newborn required CPAP support for 10 days, followed by oxygen support for another four days. During this period, neonatal jaundice developed and was treated with phototherapy. Feeding was carefully supported through limited Kangaroo Mother Care, ensuring warmth and stability without disturbing the baby’s fragile condition.

“In the NICU, progress does not come in leaps,” Dr. Aggarwal explains. “It comes quietly, one stable reading at a time.” Slowly, signs of improvement began to appear.

Breathing steadied. Responses improved. The fragile body that once struggled began to gain strength day by day. For Dr. Aggarwal, such moments reflect both medicine and meaning. “There are times when saving a child depends not just on treatment, but on timing,” he says. “Even a small delay can change everything.”

In this case, there was no delay. Supported under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, the family received cashless treatment, allowing doctors to focus entirely on care without financial hesitation.

After 17 days of intensive treatment, the baby was discharged in stable condition. Now weighing 2.106 kg, still delicate but significantly stronger, the newborn left the hospital in her parents’ arms: alive, stable, and recovering.

In another case, Maninder Singh of Hoshiarpur shared his experience. His daughter, Gurkeerat Kaur, born on April 14 this year, also required neonatal care after birth. “She was treated well at the hospital, and the cost was covered under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Card,” he said. The registration was completed the same day, and the family now has health coverage of up to ₹10 lakh annually.

Maninder Singh added with gratitude, “That is why the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana scheme matters. A person who struggles to afford their everyday living is still able to get good medical treatment for their child. That is something powerful.”

In NICUs across Punjab, silence still exists; but it is no longer filled only with fear. It is slowly being replaced by something else.

Hope. Not loud. Not exaggerated. Just steady, like a monitor showing a stronger heartbeat every day. And sometimes, that is enough to change everything.

Chandigarh:

The Pediatric Neurology Unit of PGIMER, Chandigarh, in collaboration with the Academy of Pediatric Neurology (AOPN), India, hosted a landmark Pediatric Epilepsy Research Symposium commemorating 25 years of pioneering research in infantile spasms at PGIMER.

 A central highlight of the event was the installation of the new AOPN board members. Prof. Jitendra Kumar Sahu, Pediatric Neurology Unit, PGIMER, was formally installed as the National Chairperson. In his address, Prof. Sahu articulated the association’s vision, “Every Child’s Brain Matters, Everywhere,” reaffirming AOPN’s mission to advance equitable neurological care for children across India and globally.

 The ceremony was graced by Prof. Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER, as Chief Guest, and Prof. Pratibha Singhi, President of the International Child Neurology Association, as Guest of Honor.

 Distinguished dignitaries including Dr. Anoop Verma (National Coordinator, AOPN), Dr. Vinit Wankhede (Secretary General, AOPN), Prof. Naveen Sankhyan (Organizing Chair), Dr Priyanka Madaan (Organizing secretary) and several board members across country lent their presence to the occasion.

 The Pediatric Epilepsy Research Symposium, first of its kind brought together over 130 participants, creating a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange and innovation in the field of childhood epilepsy.
The event featured diverse research presentations/participation from undergraduate, postgraduate students, faculty in pediatric neurology, neuroradiology, pharmacy, pharmacology, engineering, nursing, and basic sciences. This multidisciplinary participation highlighted the importance of collaborative and translational research in pediatric epilepsy.
Furthermore, in recognition of outstanding contributions to childhood epilepsy research, Prof. Biswaroop Chakrabarty (AIIMS, New Delhi) and Prof. Dipika Bansal (NIPER, SAS Nagar) were felicitated.
 This milestone initiative positions PGIMER Chandigarh as a leading hub for pediatric epilepsy research, collaboration, and innovation in India. 

Chandigarh:

Punjab Engineering College (Deemed to be University), Chandigarh, hosted ENERGY SUMMIT’26, organised by the SESI PEC Club (Solar Energy Society of India, PEC Chapter). The summit was themed as a “Nexus of Energy, Innovation, and Career Pathways”, focusing on bridging the gap between academic learning, industry innovation, and career development.

The programme commenced with a technical sprint, encouraging problem-solving and innovation in the field of sustainable energy.
The event featured expert talks on the Sustainable and Solar Industry, delivered by Mr. Jayant Joshi, Senior Analyst at Power Foundation of India, and Mr. Adhvit Mittal, Senior Associate at Cognizant and alumnus of IIM Bodh Gaya. The speakers shared insights on emerging technologies and emphasised the importance of aligning engineering skills with global sustainability goals.

A Case Hackathon was organised, providing students with an opportunity to work on real-world energy challenges. The competition encouraged innovative and scalable solutions, with a prize pool of ₹6,000 awarded to the winners.

The summit also included a career-focused session titled “The Real Placement Playbook”, conducted by Armaan Singh (Bain & Co), Sehajdeep Singh and Pratham Garg (American Express), Vansh Malhotra (ICICI DSAG), Mohjeet Singh Dhillon (Tata Electronics), and Shubham Soni (Jindal Stainless). The speakers shared insights on placement strategies, resume building, and navigating recruitment processes.
The event was convened by Akhilesh Kumar Bhat and co-convened by Vansh Malhotra, with support from sponsors Aashita and Alar Solutions.

The programme concluded successfully, providing students with valuable exposure to industry trends, innovation, and career pathways in the energy sector.

Chandigarh: In the run-up to the 39th Convocation of Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER addressed the media, outlining the institute’s journey, key milestones, and future roadmap. The upcoming convocation, Director PGIMER noted, is not merely a ceremonial milestone but a powerful reaffirmation of PGIMER’s enduring commitment to excellence in healthcare, education, and research.

Describing the occasion as “momentous, pious, and deeply inspiring,” Prof. Lal shared that the convocation will be graced by Hon’ble Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers Government of India , Shri J.P.Nadda as the esteemed Chief Guest and Dr. Vinod K. Paul, Member, NITI Aayog, will be present as Guest of Honour. Expressing gratitude for their presence, he remarked that their participation underscores the national importance of the institute and its contributions to public health.

This year, approximately 550 graduating students—described by Prof. Lal as “exceptionally talented and committed”—will be conferred degrees by the Hon’ble Minister. He underscored that each graduate represents not just academic brilliance but also a deep-rooted commitment to compassionate patient care.

The convocation will also witness a series of landmark inaugurations and foundation stone ceremonies aimed at strengthening PGIMER’s infrastructure and service delivery. These include the Advanced Neurosciences Centre, the Maternal and Child Health Centre, the foundation stone of a state-of-the-art Critical Care Block, a pioneering Medical Museum—the first of its kind at the institute—and Phase II expansion of key departments.

Additionally, a dedicated Cardiac Emergency facility has been operationalized, ensuring that patients with heart attacks receive immediate specialized care without delays associated with routing through general emergency services.

Calling the event “multi-dimensional in scope and impact,” Prof. Lal stated that these initiatives collectively represent a major leap forward in patient-centric healthcare. “This is not just a convocation; it is a comprehensive advancement of our capabilities,” he noted.

Highlighting PGIMER’s global footprint, Prof. Lal emphasized that the institute’s alumni continue to hold positions of influence across continents. “You will be proud to know that leaders of prominent medical bodies in the United States, including associations of Indian-origin physicians, are alumni of PGI. When someone identifies as a PGI graduate, it commands instant respect—this is the power of a PGI degree,” he stated.

Reflecting on the scale of operations, Prof. Lal shared that PGIMER now caters to nearly 40 lakh patients annually, with thousands accessing services daily. Despite this immense burden, the institute continues to uphold its commitment to equitable and affordable healthcare. “The faith quotient in PGI has risen exponentially over the years. From my days as a resident to now, the trust of the people has grown tremendously—and that is our greatest strength,” he observed.

Director PGIMER highlighted the institute’s leadership in delivering cost-effective treatment, particularly under schemes like Ayushman Bharat. “Procedures such as renal transplants, which may cost ₹15 lakh or more in private settings, are provided either free or at a fraction of the cost here—sometimes nearly one-tenth,” he explained. He described Ayushman Bharat as a “game-changing revolution” in healthcare access, with PGIMER playing a pivotal role in its success.

Further, Prof. Lal spoke about the expansion of AMRIT pharmacies within the campus—from just four a few years ago to fourteen currently—ensuring affordable medicines for patients. He also highlighted the transition to fully digital systems, including 24×7 online registration and indenting, enabling seamless, transparent, and efficient service delivery at the bedside.

A significant highlight was the SARATHI initiative, a volunteer-driven movement where students assist patients and attendants, embodying empathy and service. “What began here has now expanded to nearly 500 institutions across the country, creating a ripple effect of compassion-driven healthcare support,” he said.

Prof. Lal also noted that PGIMER’s faculty ranks among the top 2% globally in research, as per international benchmarks, reinforcing its leadership in cutting-edge medical science.

Other senior functionaries present on the occasion included Prof. R.K Ratho, Dean (Academic), Mr. Pankaj Rai, DDA, Prof. Vipin Kaushal, Medical Superintendent, Prof. S. K Gupta, Head,  Dept. of Neurosurgery,  Prof. S.S Pandav, Head, Dept. of Ophthalmology, Dr. Vijay Goni, Head, Department of Orthopaedics, Prof. Sandeep Bansal   Department of Otolaryngology, Prof. Rajesh Vijayvergiya Dept. of Cardiology, Dr. Rajiv Chauhan, Addl. Professor, Dept. Of Anesthesia and Intensive Care and Mr. Ummed Mathur, Registrar, PGIMER.

Acknowledging the challenges of heavy patient load and waiting times, he candidly remarked, “Where there is such a volume, some waiting is inevitable. Yet, our doctors often work from early morning till late evening—sometimes till 9 PM—demonstrating an unmatched level of dedication.”

Expressing heartfelt gratitude, he credited the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Chandigarh Administration, philanthropists, media, and healthcare professionals for their unwavering support. “It is this collective effort that enables PGI to deliver at such an extraordinary scale,” he said.

Concluding on an optimistic note, Prof. Lal remarked, “This convocation is a crown jewel in our journey. It reflects our past achievements and inspires our future. Our commitment to service, compassion, and excellence will continue to guide us as we move forward.”

Chandigarh, April 24

Orane International, India’s largest network of Beauty and Fashion Schools, operating 118 schools across 19 states and one centre in Victoria, Canada, today elevated its fashion education platform to a new high as Orane International School of Fashion Design and Management (Orane FDM) hosted a student fashion show and celebrity interaction session in Chandigarh. The event brought together aspiring designers, industry personalities, and media in a vibrant celebration of talent, creativity, and ambition.

In a display of skill and runway confidence, Orane FDM students presented their self-designed collections, transforming the venue into a dynamic stage for the next generation of Indian fashion. Each walk was a testament to the rigorous, hands-on training that defines Orane FDM’s learning philosophy — one that immerses students in the culture, pace, and expectations of the professional fashion world.

The event reached its peak with the presence of Farah Sanjana and Drishti Khurana, two prominent names from the world of fashion and entertainment. Both celebrities engaged candidly with students, sharing their professional journeys, the realities of the industry, and the qualities that separate good designers from great ones — an unfiltered exchange that students absorbed with palpable enthusiasm. Dedicated media bytes and in-house video coverage further enriched the occasion.

Adding significant weight to the day’s proceedings, Orane International formalised a landmark Industry Partnership with Lamrin Tech Skills University (LTSU), Punjab. Concluded with Mr Vimal Manhotra, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of LTSU, the agreement positions Orane as the Industry Partner for LTSU’s Fashion Design degree programmes — enabling students to earn recognised university degrees while benefiting from Orane’s industry expertise, infrastructure, and professional network.

“Our partnership with Orane International is a transformative step for fashion education in India. By combining LTSU’s academic strength with Orane’s industry expertise, we are creating a pathway that gives students the best of both worlds — a recognised university degree and the hands-on, market-ready training the fashion industry demands.” saidVimal Manhotra, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Lamrin Tech Skills University (LTSU), Punjab

“Today marks a proud moment for Orane on two fronts. Watching our students own the ramp with designs they conceived and built themselves is deeply gratifying — it affirms that our training model works. Equally significant is our partnership with Lamrin Tech Skills University, which now gives our students access to a recognised Fashion Design degree alongside Orane’s industry training. This combination of academic credibility and professional readiness is what the fashion industry has long needed, and we are proud to be the institution delivering it.”Kuljinder Sidhu, Director, Orane International, said on the occasion.

Beyond its commercial and academic achievements, Orane FDM is committed to making quality fashion education accessible to all. The institution currently provides free fashion education to students from Below Poverty Line (BPL) households across 34 branches nationwide. To date, 80 BPL students have been trained under this initiative — and all of them are today earning independently, having built sustainable livelihoods through the skills acquired at Orane FDM.

“At Orane FDM, our focus is firmly on skill development and hands-on practical experience. To ensure our students remain deeply connected to the realities of the industry, we regularly engage prominent fashion and interior design stalwarts who bring current market perspectives directly into the classroom. Our structured industrial training modules are designed to close the gap between academic learning and professional benchmarks — and it is this preparation that gives students the confidence to independently conceptualise and present their collections at our student fashion shows, under faculty supervision. Now with a degree from Lamrin, it will further boost the students’ formal achievements. Beyond our academic programmes, we are equally committed to building an equitable ecosystem for students from underprivileged backgrounds.” said Nidhi Sidhu, Director, Orane International.

Orane continues to set the benchmark for experiential fashion education in India, creating opportunities that bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional excellence.

About Orane International

Orane International is India’s largest network of Beauty and Fashion Schools, with a network of 118 schools spanning 19 states across India and one international centre in Victoria, Canada. Renowned for its industry-aligned curriculum, experienced faculty, and focus on practical skill development, Orane has established itself as the premier destination for aspiring professionals in beauty, wellness, and fashion. The institution’s commitment to career-ready education has empowered thousands of students to build successful, sustainable careers in some of the fastest-growing industries in the world.

Chandigarh, April 24

Haryana’s Energy, Transport and Labour Minister, Anil Vij said that Haryana has a Bharatiya Janata Party government rooted in cultural values and nationalism. Along with administration, it also fully takes care of our cultural importance and beliefs. The cow holds a very significant place in our culture. We have always worshipped it, and the Haryana government works from time to time to ensure its proper care and maintenance.

Vij said this after presenting a grant cheque of ₹2,312,800 to the office bearers of the Rambagh Gaushala Committee located in Ambala Cantonment today.

On this occasion, Energy Minister Anil Vij said that Rambagh Gaushala is one of the best gaushalas in the Ambala Cantonment area. Its members are working day and night in the service of cows. He prayed that it continues to grow and prosper.

On this occasion, Gaushala Committee official Rajesh Kansal said that today they received a cheque of ₹2,312,800 from Energy Minister Anil Vij. This amount will be used for fodder as well as other gaushala-related work. This is a good initiative by the government. On behalf of the gaushala committee, he also expressed gratitude to Minister Anil Vij.

He further said that through the Haryana Gau Seva Aayog, grants are provided for better maintenance and expansion of gaushalas. Last year, the Haryana government allocated ₹4 billion through the commission for the maintenance of gaushalas in the state. Rambagh Gaushala in Ambala Cantonment received funds twice—₹3.5 million once and ₹2.2 million the second time. The gaushala currently shelters 1,300 cattle, which are being properly cared for.

On this occasion, committee members Jaswant Jain, Prem Jain, Mahavir Singh, Rajesh Singla, Gaurav Soni, Rajesh Kansal, Amit Bansal, Rajendra Wahi, Rinku Bhandari, Rajeev Goyal, Janak Budhiraja, Sachin Goyal, Sandeep Gupta, Vijay Garg, along with other distinguished persons, were present.