The Advanced Eye Centre, PGIMER, in collaboration with the Department of Ophthalmology, Government Medical College & Hospital, successfully hosted the 36th Annual Conference of the Chandigarh Ophthalmological Society from 23rd to 25th August 2025. The event is being held under the aegis of the Chandigarh Ophthalmological Society and brought together nearly 180 delegates from across North India.

The Organizing Chairperson Prof. Amit Gupta and Organizing Secretary Prof. Parul Ichhpujani highlighted that the conference provided a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange, academic discussions, and skill enhancement in the field of ophthalmology.

The two-day conference opened with research paper presentations, where delegates shared cutting-edge findings across subspecialties. Notable presentations included a rare case of Takayasu arteritis with ocular manifestations, advancements in the management of keratoconus through collagen cross-linking, insights into linezolid-induced ocular toxicity, the impact of screen time and sleep quality on dry eye disease, and the role of vitamin supplementation in glaucoma, Retinopathy of prematurity screening guidelines, among others.

The second session featured challenging and rare clinical case presentations, sparking interactive discussions and providing practical learning opportunities for attendees.

The day concluded with a quiz competition, where teams demonstrated their clinical expertise and quick thinking. The Ist prize won by GMCH-32 ,  Dr Varnika & Dr Arushi GMCH, Chandigarh, 2nd prize won by  Dr Pranav and Dr Ashish from PGIMER Chandigarh, and 3rd prize Dr Archeesha and Dr Akshat from PGIMER Chandigarh

The conference Day 1 concluded on a high note, reinforcing the spirit of academic collaboration iety and innovation in ophthalmology.

Chandigarh, August 23, 2025:

Panjab University is all set to provide its students with a powerful new platform for innovation through the launch of a Pre-Incubation Fab Lab under RUSA 2.0. With an investment of about ₹1.6 crores, the proposed facility will offer hands-on access to cutting-edge tools, enabling students to turn ideas into working prototypes, industry-ready projects, and even startups.

The Fab Lab will focus on skill development, employability, and entrepreneurship. Students from diverse disciplines will be able to design and fabricate their own Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs), integrate hardware and software systems, and work with advanced technologies like IoT, robotics, AI, and embedded systems. By reducing dependence on external vendors, the facility will save time and cost while giving students practical exposure to real-world processes.

The lab will feature a PCB design and fabrication unit capable of producing single, double, and multilayer boards, supported by advanced machinery such as CNC milling systems, automated soldering stations, UV exposure units, reflow ovens, and a complete assembly and testing setup. A dedicated Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) lab will offer IoT gateways, robotics kits, embedded platforms like Arduino and Raspberry Pi, GPUs for AI applications, and testing equipment. Licensed PCB design software and high-performance workstations will be available for students to design, simulate, and execute projects.

For students, the benefits are manifold: faster turnaround for academic projects, hands-on training in modern prototyping tools, improved placement opportunities through demonstrable skills, and pathways into entrepreneurship.

Research scholars will be able to quickly test prototypes, while undergraduate students can gain valuable project experience. The facility will also support student competitions, workshops, and certifications, enhancing both learning outcomes and career readiness.

Beyond academics, the lab will strengthen collaboration with startups and industries in the Tricity region, giving students opportunities for internships, live projects, and mentorship. By combining education, research, and industry services, the University aims to create a sustainable ecosystem where students can learn, innovate, and launch ventures directly from campus.

PU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig said, “The world is changing fast, and we are consistently working to empower our students with the skills and confidence to innovate for the future. The Pre-Incubation Fab Lab is not just an infrastructure project but a launchpad for our students’ ideas, research, and entrepreneurial journeys. By providing hands-on access to world-class tools and mentorship, we aim to nurture job creators, innovators, and leaders who will shape tomorrow’s industries.” She added that the lab will be operational in this semester, with structured training sessions, project support, and pre-incubation opportunities open to all interested students.

Chandigarh, August 23 :

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday expressed deep shock and anguish over the tragic mishap in village Mandiala, Hoshiarpur district, where two people lost their lives and 21 were injured following an explosion in an LPG tanker.

Expressing profound grief and sorrow over the incident, the Chief Minister extended his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families and prayed to the Almighty to grant them strength to bear this irreparable loss, and peace to the departed souls. Meanwhile, he announced financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and stated that he is in constant touch with the district administration to regularly monitor the situation. Bhagwant Singh Mann further said he has directed the district administration to ensure free treatment for all the injured and wished them a speedy recovery.

SAS Nagar, August 23:

Kamal Kishore Soan, Additional Secretary & Mission Director (NJJM & SBM), Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti, visited Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (Mohali) District today for field inspections and review of Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) and Swatchh Bharat Mission (SBM-G) works.
During his visit, Sh. Soan first inspected the Liquid Waste Management (Thapar Model) project at Village Nangal Garhian, Block Majri, District SAS Nagar. He interacted with officials and community members and took note of the innovative efforts being undertaken for sustainable wastewater treatment at the village level. Present on the occasion were the Chief Engineer (South); J J Goyal Director Sanitation, DWSS Punjab; Manoj Malhotra, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Rural Development), SAS Nagar; Sonam Chaudhary and SDM Kharar Smt. Divya P and Executive Engineer, Division No. 3, Mohali; Ramanpreet Singh.
Subsequently, the Additional Secretary GOI visited Village Fatehgarh, Block Majri, District SAS Nagar, where he reviewed the functional household tap connection-based water supply scheme. He observed that a tubewell worth Rs. 19.01 lacs had been installed in 2022 under the scheme. He appreciated the commendable efforts of the Gram Panchayat Water Supply Committee (GPWSC), which has been successfully managing and operating the scheme since 2010, ensuring reliable and safe drinking water to the community.
Sh. Soan lauded the collective efforts of the Department of Water Supply and Sanitation, Punjab, and the local Gram Panchayats in implementing the objectives of Jal Jeevan Mission and SLWM initiatives, reiterating the Government of India’s commitment to providing safe water and improved sanitation services to every rural household.

CHANDIGARH : On India’s 79th Independence Day, Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP and Founder-Chancellor of Lovely Professional University (LPU), Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal issued a bold ultimatum to the United States that if the 50% tariff hike on Indian goods is not revoked by August 27, all American soft drinks and beverage companies will be banned from the campus of Lovely Professional University (one of India’s largest private universities, catering to over 40,000 students.

The ultimatum followed Dr. Mittal’s open letter to U.S. President Donald J. Trump on August 7, where he described the tariff hike announced by the United States as ‘unfair’ and disruptive. He urged President Trump to roll back the decision and return to principles of dialogue, not diktats. In the same letter, Dr. Mittal asked a pointed question, ‘What if 146 crore Indians initiate a strategic restriction of U.S. businesses?’ ~ a sentiment that has since ignited a nationwide debate, with several universities and youth organisations across India mulling similar restrictions on American products.

Today, with momentum growing on the ground, Dr. Mittal has once again underlined the importance of cooperation over coercion. He has called for constructive dialogue where the possibility of revoking the tariff hike can be discussed at length and a decision fair to India can be arrived at. However, while urging for collaboration, Dr. Mittal reiterated, ‘India’s economic dignity cannot be compromised. My decision to ban American beverage companies from LPU is not targeted at any single brand but is a symbolic assertion of India’s rising role in global affairs. India is no longer a passive participant in international trade but a rising force to reckon with, that holds self-respect at its core. Hence, a hike that is imposed on India as a penalty for trading with Russia while USA continues to do the same is completely unacceptable. America WILL HAVE to RETHINK and REVOKE!’

RS MP Ashok Mittal’s latest statement comes exactly a week after President Trump’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, post which two things are clear that pressure on the White House is mounting and there is growing compulsion to recognise India as the world’s fourth-largest economy that cannot be subjected to unfair trade diktats.

Dr. Mittal once again cautioned USA, ’Any imbalance of trade with India, would deal a far greater blow to the U.S. than to India.’ He once again called upon world leaders to move beyond zero-sum tactics and resolve this issue peacefully, reminding them that, ‘the real test of diplomacy lies not in rhetoric but in achieving breakthroughs that benefit all sides.’

With his assertive and firm stance against tariff hikes, and his repeated call for constructive global dialogue, Dr. Ashok Mittal stands out as one of the most mature and vocal champions of India’s economic dignity on the global stage. His message remains clear ~ India welcomes cooperation but its dignity is non-negotiable.

Chandigarh, August 20:

In yet another move towards the welfare of labourers, the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government has approved a 10 percent increase in Mandi labour rates. This decision was taken during a Board of Directors meeting chaired by S. Harchand Singh Barsat, Chairman Punjab Mandi Board.

Notably, the Mandi labour rate has been hiked from Rs 17.50 to Rs 19.26 per 37.5 kg bag of paddy, marking an increase of Rs 1.76 per bag.

 S. Harchand Singh Barsat said that the 10% hike in Mandi labour rates is a response to Labour Unions’ demands, reaffirming the Punjab Government’s commitment to labour welfare under CM Mann’s leadership. The revised rates will provide much-needed relief to labourers and their families, promoting fair labour practices and improving lives of those crucial to the agricultural supply chain.

 During the meeting, a detailed discussion was held regarding initiatives being taken to increase the income of Punjab Mandi Board. Chairman Punjab Mandi Board stated that special plans have been formulated to boost the Board’s income and work is being carried out with great enthusiasm. Vacant plots in state grain markets are being auctioned through e-auction and ATMs and Unipols are being installed in various markets.

He informed that Punjab Mandi Board has been making special efforts to provide better facilities to farmers, commission agents, labourers and the general public. Development works are underway in various markets, and robust arrangements are being made for facilities during the Kharif procurement season, keeping everyone’s needs in mind.

Among others, Secretary Punjab Mandi Board Mr. Ramvir, Chairman Punjab Farmers Commission Dr. Sukhpal Singh, Special Secretary Agriculture Ms. Baldeep Kaur and other senior officials were also present in the meeting.

Chandigarh, August 20 — Haryana Environment and Forest Minister, Rao Narbir Singh has directed officials to ensure more effective implementation of the Van Mitra scheme so that plantation becomes a mass movement. He said that Van Mitras will now be able to plant saplings by digging pits not only on private land but also on forest department land.

The Minister gave these directions while chairing a review meeting of the Forest Department here today. Additional Chief Secretary Environment and Forest department, Sh Anand Mohan Sharan, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and other senior officials were present at the meeting.

Van Mitra to Receive Honorarium on Time

The Minister said that there should be no delay in disbursing the monthly honorarium of Rs 15,000 to Van Mitras and directed that it be released immediately.

During the meeting, it was informed that under the Van Mitra Yojana, launched in 2024, as many as 70,000 youth have registered on the portal. They dug more than two lakh pits, out of which 2598 youth were given the status of ‘Van Mitra’ after planting saplings in 10 pits and completing geo tagging.

New System of Verification

The Minister directed that, in place of geo-tagging, the verification and monitoring of pits and plantations will now be carried out personally by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Conservator, and Forest Guard. This mechanism will ensure accurate evaluation of the work undertaken by Van Mitras and their honorarium can be released transparently through DBT.

Government’s Vision for a Green Haryana

The Haryana Government aims to transform the state into one of greenery and clean air in the coming years. With the spirit of the resolution ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, the government is actively involving youth, women and all sections of society in environmental protection efforts so that Haryana emerges as a green and healthy state for future generations.

Chandigarh, August 20 – The Haryana Government has decided to provide the benefit of horizontal reservation in direct recruitment to resident ex-Agniveers of the state. After detailed deliberations on the matter, a policy has now been formulated to provide reservation for ex-Agniveers in various state services.

A letter in this regard has been issued by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi.

According to this policy, ex-Agniveers will get 1 percent horizontal reservation in Group-B posts related to skill expertise, and 5 percent in Group-C posts (excluding some specified categories). In the Home Department, 20 percent reservation will be given for the posts of Police Constables. Similarly, 10 percent reservation has been fixed for the posts of Forest Guard in the Environment, Forest and Wildlife Department, Warder in the Jail Department, and Mining Guard in the Mines and Geology Department.

To ensure fair distribution among all social categories, reservation will be applied at fixed roster points. Selection will be purely on the basis of merit, and ex-Agniveers will be selected against reserved posts within their respective vertical categories. If suitable ex-Agniveers are not available, the vacant posts will be filled by eligible candidates of the concerned category.

The government has also decided that during recruitment for the posts of Police Constable, Forest Guard, Jail Warder, and Mining Guard, ex-Agniveers will be exempted from the Physical Efficiency Test, since their physical fitness and military training are already certified. In addition, ex-Agniveers are already exempted from the Common Eligibility Test (CET) for Group-C recruitments. They will also be exempted from skill-related tests for which they have received training during their military service. However, they will be required to appear in the written examination prescribed by the Haryana Staff Selection Commission for the advertised posts. This exemption will be applicable when they apply in response to advertisements issued by the Commission.

Chandigarh, August 20 – Haryana has significantly intensified its campaign against drug trafficking and substance abuse through a comprehensive strategy combining strict enforcement, widespread awareness programmes, and enhanced rehabilitation measures. This coordinated approach has delivered remarkable results in 2025, as highlighted during the 11th State Narco Coordination (NCORD) meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi here today. The Chief Secretary reaffirmed the government’s determination to achieve the ambitious goal of a completely Drug-Free Haryana through a holistic three-pronged approach that not only tackles the symptoms of drug abuse but also addresses its root causes while strengthening systems of recovery and reintegration.

Dr. Sumita Misra, Additional Chief Secretary (Home), said the state’s enforcement machinery has delivered exceptional results in the first seven months of 2025. Authorities registered 2,161 FIRs compared to 2,022 during the same period last year, while 3,629 accused persons were arrested, representing an impressive 35 percent increase over 2024. Strengthened interstate coordination led to 293 interstate arrests in commercial quantity cases, marking a major step in dismantling cross-border trafficking networks. The state also struck hard at the financial backbone of drug offenders, with property attachments rising sharply from ₹23.41 lakh in 2024 to ₹1.31 crore in 2025. Preventive policing strategies also proved highly effective, with preventive detentions jumping from 8 to 42 cases.

She also called for joint raids with neighbouring districts to dismantle the supply chain of drugs being transported into Haryana by the smugglers. She also directed formation of a smaller task force at the HoD level which shall hold regular meetings to resolve pending issues.

She further stated that Haryana’s massive focus on awareness and youth engagement has been equally noteworthy. Within just seven months, the Haryana State Narcotics Control Bureau (HSNCB) conducted 698 anti-drug awareness programmes across the state, successfully reaching more than 1.15 lakh participants from diverse communities. Youth engagement through sports has emerged as a cornerstone of the campaign, with the “Drug-Free Village/Ward” programme covering 4,270 villages and engaging nearly 2.8 lakh young people in constructive sporting activities. These efforts have been reinforced by door-to-door survey teams deployed to conduct regular audits and ensure active grassroots participation in anti-drug initiatives.

The meeting also reviewed several systemic reforms and strategic initiatives forming the backbone of the anti-drug campaign. These included the rollout of centralized pharmaceutical supply chain monitoring systems to prevent misuse of prescription medicines, systematic inspection of de-addiction centres in all districts to ensure compliance with prescribed standards, and significant upgrades in forensic laboratories with advanced equipment for synthetic drug detection. The state has also expanded the use of national databases such as NATGRID and MANAS, supported by regular training programmes for officials, while intensifying surveillance of closed chemical factories to prevent their illegal reactivation for drug production, she added.

Educational institutions have also been assigned a critical role in sustaining awareness. The School Education Department has been directed to strengthen parental involvement in Prahari Clubs, while the Higher Education Department continues to organize monthly awareness drives in colleges across Haryana. These initiatives ensure that anti-drug messaging reaches young people consistently, meaningfully, and with strong community participation.

Additional Chief Secretary, Health, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, Additional Chief Secretary, SEWA Department, Dr G. Anupama, Additional Chief Secretary, Energy, Sh. AK Singh, DGP, Haryana State Narcotics Control Bureau, Sh. OP Singh and other snior officers were present in the meeting.

Chandigarh, August 20 – Haryana Environment, Forest and Wildlife Minister, Rao Narbir Singh, said that the proposed Jungle Safari project in the Aravalli region is a special initiative of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi. The detailed design and project report will be prepared within the next two months, followed by the global tender process, so that work on the project can start soon. The project aims not only to boost eco-tourism, but also to protect biodiversity and create employment opportunities for local people.

Rao Narbir Singh was chairing a review meeting with officers of the Forest Department in Chandigarh today. The Life Science Education Trust gave a presentation on the project. Additional Chief Secretary, Sh. Anand Mohan Sharan, Forest Department, and other senior officers were present at the meeting.

He said that the Aravalli is India’s oldest mountain range, spread across Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Delhi, covering 1.15 million hectares. The central government has entrusted Haryana with the responsibility of the Aravalli Green Wall Project and Jungle Safari, which will prove to be a milestone in environmental conservation.

Inspired by projects in Nagpur and Jamnagar

Rao Narbir Singh said that earlier this project was with the Tourism Department, as per the directions of Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, it has now been handed over to the Forest Department. He personally visited the Gorewada Safari in Nagpur and the Vantara project in Gujarat for inspiration. The Haryana government’s aim is to have this mega project inaugurated by Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, he added.

Proposed across 10,000 acres in Gurugram and Nuh

It was informed in the meeting that the Aravalli Safari is proposed over nearly 10,000 acres in Gurugram and Nuh districts. In the first phase, it will be developed on around 2,500 acres. The project will be implemented in accordance with the rules of the Central Zoo Authority and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

The Minister further said that this will be a major investment project, and possibilities under the PPP model will be explored for its operation. Just like Gujarat’s Vantara and Kevadia Zoo projects have signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), Haryana too will complete the MoU process soon. He also shared that guidelines for night safari have now been issued. Through the Aravalli Green Wall project, large-scale plantation of indigenous species, soil health improvement, groundwater recharge, and biodiversity conservation will be ensured. 

Inspired by the Prime Minister’s Vision

Rao Narbir Singh said the project is inspired by the vision of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi. He appealed to the people of the state to pledge their support for the protection and conservation of wildlife, as also emphasised by the Prime Minister in his Mann ki Baat programme.