New Delhi/Chandigarh, March 13 Former Union Minister and Member of Parliament from Chandigarh Manish Tewari today raised vital issue of healthcare in Chandigarh in the Lok Sabha. With entire focus on the state of healthcare in the Union Territory of Chandigarh, Tewari vide his unstarred question number 3521, sought clarity from the Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare on several pressing matters.
Tewari began by asking about the sanctioned strength of doctors in Chandigarh’s Health Department – cadre-wise and post-wise. “The date on which new posts of doctors were last created in Chandigarh and the number and categories of such posts, along with details of the relevant orders issued”, he asked the Minister.
The Chandigarh MP then pressed for details on vacancies, emphasizing the need for specialty-wise information –Medicine, Surgery, Anesthesia, Radiology, Pediatrics – so that the true picture of shortages could be understood. From there, he turned to the question of new posts, inquiring when the regular recruitment to doctors’ posts was last conducted, along with the number of posts filled and the specialties covered.
Tewari also asked about how many doctors are currently serving in Chandigarh on deputation, broken down State and Union Territory-wise. Finally, he asked whether the deputations are guided by specialty-specific requirements along with the details of the policy or criteria governing such deputation.
Meanwhile, responding to the questions put forward by Tewari, the Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav instead of giving Chandigarh-specific figures, emphasized that Public Health and Hospitals are state subjects. He shifted responsibility to the Union Territory administration, saying that the primary duty to create posts and fill vacancies lies with the State/UT.
“The Minister did not answer the specific questions raised – no numbers, no dates, no specialty-wise breakdown, no recruitment details and no deputation figures. This is a classic case of a diplomatic ducking”, said Tewari, adding that the Minister avoided committing to hard data by framing the answer in general policy terms.
While Tewari asserted that his intervention was about transparency and accountability in Chandigarh’s healthcare staffing, the Minister’s reply sidestepped the specifics, offering instead a generic policy narrative. “In parliamentary practice, this is often seen as a way to avoid admitting gaps or shortages publicly. So while the reply may be formally valid, it does not satisfy the intent of the question – it’s more of a diplomatic evasion than a substantive answer.”
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Meanwhile, in a moment that cut through the usual diplomatic evasions, Tewari laid bare the startling reality of Chandigarh’s health infrastructure. “I am given to understand by informed people that the break-up of the total number of doctors in Chandigarh stands at 164 Medical Officers (MO), 28 Senior Medical Officers (SMO) and approximately 29 Dental SMOs – totaling around 221 doctors out of which 180 are serving on deputation. Strip those away and the city is left with barely 41 doctors locally or otherwise deployed”, he said. Mincing no words Tewari added, “Perhaps the reason why the Chandigarh Administration and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare did not want to disclose the Health Infrastructure personnel profile of Chandigarh.
Aam Aadmi Party’s National Media In-charge Anurag Dhanda launched a sharp attack on the BJP governments at the Centre and in Haryana over the growing LPG gas shortage in the state. He said that due to the government’s negligence, a serious cooking gas crisis has emerged across the state, causing immense hardship for the common people.
Anurag Dhanda said that in many cities and towns of the state, long queues are forming outside gas agencies from early morning. People are forced to wait for several hours and still have to return empty-handed. In districts such as Panipat, Karnal, Hisar and nearby areas, the situation has become so severe that people are unable to get cylinders even after standing in line for 7 to 9 hours. At several places, gas agencies are shutting their shutters after stock runs out, forcing people to return disappointed.
He said that according to reports, gas deliveries in several districts have dropped significantly compared to normal days. In some places, 300–350 cylinders at a single agency are getting exhausted within minutes, while hundreds of people remain in line. Dhanda said that work has stopped in 220 LPG-based factories in Panipat. Domestic gas deliveries have reportedly dropped by nearly 80 percent. From small tea vendors to dhaba and hotel owners, many are being forced to shut down their businesses. Not only domestic consumers but also hotels, dhabas, tea stalls and small traders are severely affected.
Anurag Dhanda further said that in many parts of the state the situation has become so difficult that people are being forced to return to wood-fired stoves or other alternatives. Due to the gas shortage, small businesses are on the verge of closure. There are also reports of black marketing of cylinders in several areas, where people are being charged between ₹2000 and ₹3000 for a single cylinder. This clearly reflects the failure of the government.
He said that in many villages of Haryana, women are spending the entire day visiting gas agencies in search of cylinders. Elderly people and labourers are forced to leave their work and stand in queues. It is extremely unfortunate that in a country where the government constantly promotes the “Ujjwala Yojana,” poor and middle-class households are now struggling to even cook food.
Anurag Dhanda said that the BJP government only indulges in propaganda and slogan-based politics, while the ground reality is completely different. If the government had proper planning and management, such a gas crisis would never have arisen in Haryana. He added that the Aam Aadmi Party government in Delhi has shown that with honest intentions and efficient administration, people do not have to face such hardships.
He demanded that the central and state governments immediately increase gas supply, take strict action against black marketing, and ensure adequate stock at gas agencies across all districts. He also said that the Aam Aadmi Party stands with the people of Haryana and will continue to strongly raise this issue until relief is provided to the public.
Recognizing the growing burden of kidney diseases and the importance of early awareness on the occasion of World Kidney Day 2026, the PGIMER, Chandigarh, decided to reach out to the people instead of people having to reach the hospital. The Director, Prof. Dr. Vivek Lal has always been a strong proponent of outreach campaigns for promoting public health. The Department of Nephrology therefore undertook a community outreach interactive initiative to spread awareness about kidney health.
The outreach programme was conducted at three locations: Panjab University, Chandigarh; Gian Jyoti Institute, Mohali; and Dadu Majra. The National Institute of Nursing Education (NINE), PGIMER, enthusiastically collaborated with the Department of Nephrology in conducting these activities.
At Gian Jyoti Institute, Mohali, Prof. Dr. HS Kohli and the team of Department of Nephrology conducted an informative and interactive session with students. Prof. Kohli addressed the students on the increasing use of protein supplements and explained the types of supplements available in the market. He cautioned against adulterated or unregulated supplements that may potentially harm the kidneys and stressed the importance of a balanced and wholesome diet. He also warned against the indiscriminate use of over-the-counter painkiller medications. The team educated the youngsters on the early signs and symptoms of kidney disease and emphasized the importance of adequate hydration.
At Panjab University, PGIMER team interacted with students and spoke in simple and practical terms about maintaining kidney health through healthy lifestyle habits and avoidance of modifiable risk factors. They emphasized sustainable dietary practices and highlighted natural, balanced sources of protein rather than relying on unnecessary supplements.
Students across these institutions displayed enormous curiosity about kidney health, dietary practices, and protein supplements, leading to engaging discussions. In response to their questions, the team also discussed recent advances in kidney disease treatment and the emerging role of artificial intelligence in nephrology.
At Dadu Majra, Department of Nephrology PGIMER team, in collaboration with the Nursing teams lead by Dr. Sukhpal Kaur and Dr. Naina Singh, conducted a session addressing common questions regarding kidney health, lifestyle practices, and prevention of kidney disease beautified by hand made posters and slogans on kidney care.
The outreach programme witnessed enthusiastic participation and engagement. The large turnout and active interaction from students and community members made the World Kidney Day outreach initiative a meaningful and successful effort in promoting kidney health awareness.
The Department of Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, has brought laurels to the institution by securing several prestigious awards at recent national and international scientific events.
During the Annual Research Day of PGIMER held on March 7, 2026, Dr. Ashok Yadav was awarded the Second Prize, while Dr. Sheetal Sharma secured the Third Prize in the Best Paper Award category for their research presentations. Further recognition came at the ANRF-sponsored International Conference on “Antimicrobial Resistance & Biotechnology for Global Health,” organized by the Faculty of Applied Science and Biotechnology at Shoolini University, Solan (Himachal Pradesh), on March 9–10, 2026. At the conference, Dr. Jyoti Kundu and Dr. Sheemona Chowdhary were honoured with the Women Scientist Award in the categories of Clinical, Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Environmental Sciences, respectively.In addition, Ms. Sumanpreet Kaur received the Early Research Career Award for her promising research contributions. Ms. Parul Yadav, an M.Sc. student, and Mr. Vishal, a Ph.D. scholar, were awarded Best Poster Awards for their research presentations. These achievements highlight the strong scientific contributions and innovative research being carried out by the faculty members and students of the department. The department congratulated all the awardees for their accomplishments and for bringing pride and recognition to the institute.
On the occasion of World Sleep Day, sleep specialists have called upon policymakers and healthcare systems to prioritize early detection and management of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) as an important strategy to reduce the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India.OSA is a common but underdiagnosed sleep disorder characterized by repeated obstruction of the airway during sleep, leading to intermittent oxygen deprivation and fragmented sleep. Globally, nearly one billion adults aged 30–69 years are estimated to suffer from OSA, and India is expected to carry a significant share of this burden.Indian studies suggest that around 9–13% of adults may have moderate to severe OSA, translating to over 100 million individuals potentially affected in the country, with the majority remaining undiagnosed.
Untreated OSA has been strongly linked with several major non-communicable diseases including hypertension, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Repeated episodes of oxygen deprivation during sleep trigger sympathetic activation, inflammation, insulin resistance, and vascular dysfunction, which accelerate cardiometabolic diseases.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Bansal, Professor & In-charge Sleep Lab, Department of Otolaryngology, and President of the Indian Association of Surgeons for Sleep Apnea(IASSA), said:
“India cannot effectively fight the epidemic of hypertension, diabetes and heart disease without addressing the silent epidemic of sleep apnea. Early diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea can play a crucial role in preventing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in our population.”
“ Sleep health remains one of the most neglected pillars of preventive medicine in India. Obstructive Sleep Apnea is not merely a problem of snoring but a serious medical condition strongly linked with hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Early identification and timely treatment of OSA can significantly reduce the burden of these non-communicable diseases. Integrating sleep disorder screening into national NCD programs could become a powerful preventive strategy for public health.”
He further emphasized that habitual loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, and witnessed breathing pauses during sleep should not be ignored and require medical evaluation.
Symptoms of OSA Daytime Symptoms Nighttime Symptoms
Excessive daytime sleepiness Loud snoring Waking in the morning with a dry mouth or sore throat Pauses in breathing during sleep (often noticed by a partner) Morning headaches Waking during the night gasping or choking Trouble focusing Needing to urinate often during the night Mood changes such as feeling depressed or being easily upset
Prof.Jaimanti, Head of the Department of Otolaryngology, highlighted that improving awareness about sleep disorders among both healthcare professionals and the public is essential. Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary management of sleep apnea can significantly improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.
The theme for World Sleep Day — “Sleep Well, Live Better” — highlights the vital role of healthy sleep in maintaining physical and mental well-being.
Experts reiterate that recognizing and treating sleep apnea early can help prevent serious health complications and contribute to a healthier nation.
Modern treatment options—including lifestyle modification, weight reduction, CPAP therapy, oral appliances, and advanced airway surgeries—can effectively control the disease and reduce long-term health risks when diagnosed early.
On this World Sleep Day, Indian Association of Surgeons for Sleep Apnea(IASSA) call upon policymakers to:
Integrate OSA screening into national NCD prevention programs
Promote sleep health awareness among the public and healthcare providers
Expand access to sleep diagnostic facilities across the country
Encourage research and surveillance on sleep disorders in India
Recognizing sleep apnea early can play a crucial role in preventing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, thereby improving population health and reducing healthcare costs.
Healthy sleep is essential for a healthy nation. Addressing sleep apnea today can help prevent the NCD epidemic of tomorrow.
The India International Disputes Week concluded today at the Chandigarh Judicial Academy with jurists, arbitration practitioners and policy experts deliberating on the future of arbitration and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in India.
Delivering the keynote address, Arun Chawla, Director General of the Indian Council of Arbitration, emphasised that credible dispute resolution systems are central to investor confidence and economic growth. He noted that as cross-border commerce expands, strengthening institutional arbitration and responsibly integrating technology will be key to building trust in India’s dispute resolution ecosystem.
A panel on the evolution of ADR practices in India featured Naresh Markanda, Shashwat Bajpai, Deepak Jindal, Animesh Anand Bordoloi, Neeraj Kochar, Harishankar K Sathiyapalan, and Col Narinder Singh, moderated by Jonathan Rodrigues. Speakers discussed the growing importance of mediation, arbitration and institutional mechanisms in addressing commercial disputes and improving access to efficient dispute resolution.
Another panel examined institutional arbitration versus ad hoc arbitration, featuring Sanjeev Sharma, Devna Arora, Devathas Satianathan, A J Jawad, Siddhesh Pradhan, Ulla Glaesser, Navin Kumar Singh, and Sahil Narang, moderated by Shruti Sabharwal. Panelists highlighted that institutional arbitration offers greater procedural clarity, cost transparency and oversight, which strengthens the enforceability of arbitral awards.
In the session titled “Anatomy of Enforceable Awards,” S. J. Vazifdar and Kshitij Sharma discussed the importance of carefully reasoned arbitral awards and procedural discipline to minimise challenges at the enforcement stage.
Earlier, J R Midha shared insights on improving arbitration efficiency through streamlined procedures. He emphasised structured pleadings, identification of admitted and disputed facts at the outset, use of interrogatories and video-recorded cross-examinations to reduce delays and ensure that arbitrations are completed within the statutory timeline.
Delivering the valedictory address, Dinesh Maheshwari highlighted that arbitration has evolved into a dynamic institution of dispute resolution and stressed the importance of strengthening institutional frameworks, legal scholarship and global collaboration to position India as a credible arbitration hub.
In his concluding remarks, Ashwani Kumar Mishra said the week-long event had brought together diverse perspectives from across jurisdictions and emphasised that the ultimate objective of dispute resolution mechanisms is to promote peace and certainty in society. He also lauded the participation of young lawyers and students and appreciated the efforts of the organising team, expressing confidence that initiatives such as the Chandigarh International Arbitration Centre would evolve into institutions of excellence for dispute resolution.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday said the opposition abandoned the Budget debate because it could not defend its opposition to giving ₹1,000 to women, asserting that parties which kept people poor for decades are now uncomfortable with the empowerment of ordinary families under the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government.
Describing the fifth annual budget of the Punjab Government as the “Budget of the martyrs’ dreams,” the Chief Minister said the budget is aimed at fulfilling the aspirations of freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh and Udham Singh, while reaffirming that the Punjab Government has delivered on all its election guarantees within four years and is now preparing its agenda for the 2027 Assembly elections. He also said the opposition already knows that a government led by Bhagwant Singh Mann will return to power in 2027, which is why it chose to run away from the debate instead of facing the truth before the people.
Concluding the debate on the Budget for the financial year 2026–27 presented by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “For the first time in the history of Punjab, a government has fulfilled all its election guarantees within four years. The manifestos of traditional parties were merely formalities. With the support of the people, we will continue serving them with the same spirit in 2027. For the first time, a government treated its budget as a sacred document and fulfilled every promise made to the people.”
Congratulating Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema for presenting a people-friendly budget, the Chief Minister said that the budget focuses on providing facilities to those whose progress is often hindered by financial constraints. “The budget includes providing benefits of the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dhian Satkar Yojna to 97% of women, providing free ration to 40 lakh families under the ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme, and offering cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh,” noted CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.
He added that earlier budgets were limited to paving streets and drains, whereas the present government is focusing on providing world-class education to children, quality healthcare services, and building medical colleges.
The Chief Minister said that to provide quality healthcare facilities to people and enable youth to fulfil their dream of becoming doctors while staying in Punjab, seven medical colleges are being established in the state. “These colleges will be built in Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, Sangrur, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Lehragaga, Malerkotla and Ludhiana, which will add 600 MBBS seats,” stated CM Bhagwant Singh Mann. He further noted that 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics have recorded five crore OPD visits, reflecting people’s trust in the healthcare services.
Taking note of the criticism of the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dhian Satkar Yojna by opposition leaders, the Chief Minister said that wealthy leaders of traditional parties are deliberately insulting poor people. “Traditional parties never worked for the welfare of the poor, due to which many families still struggle with poverty and find it difficult to arrange two meals a day,” stated CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.
He added that these leaders are uncomfortable with the economic empowerment of the poor and pointed out that while they educate their own children in convent schools in the hills, they want poor families to remain deprived of quality education.
The Chief Minister said that after the Punjab Government started Schools of Eminence, children from underprivileged families are now clearing examinations such as JEE, JEE Mains and NEET. “The Meri Rasoi scheme will ensure nutritious food for 40 lakh families, especially their children,” added CM Bhagwant Singh Mann. He explained that under the scheme each family will receive a kit containing 2 kg sugar, 2 kg pulses, 1 litre mustard oil, 200 grams turmeric and 1 kg salt.
Highlighting employment generation, the Chief Minister said that the creation of 10,000 posts in the Punjab Police will provide opportunities for youth and further strengthen the force. “The Punjab Government has already provided around 64,000 government jobs to youth so far,” stated CM Bhagwant Singh Mann. He also said that the Sardar Bahadur Amin Chand Armed Forces Preparatory Institute in Hoshiarpur has been completed and admissions will begin this year, enabling youth to prepare for service in the armed forces.
Referring to efforts to ensure canal water reaches tail-end areas and reduce dependence on groundwater, the Chief Minister said that recent data reflects encouraging results. “According to data presented in the Rajya Sabha by the Central Ground Water Board, groundwater levels have increased in 57% of observation wells in Punjab, with the rise mostly ranging between 0 to 4 meters,” stated CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.
He further said that to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, a Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur World-Class University is being established at Sri Anandpur Sahib as a tribute to the great Guru. The Chief Minister added that the 650th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Ravidas Ji Maharaj will be celebrated on a large scale and ₹100 crore has been allocated in the budget for this purpose.
Criticising the opposition for constantly opposing welfare initiatives, the Chief Minister said that opposition parties had earlier claimed that free electricity could not be provided, yet the Punjab Government successfully fulfilled the promise. “They also claimed that Bhagwant Singh Mann would not remain Chief Minister even for a year, yet I have been serving as Chief Minister for four years,” noted CM Bhagwant Singh Mann. He asserted that he will continue to serve as Chief Minister even after the 2027 elections.
Reiterating his stand on Punjab’s rights, the Chief Minister said that neighbouring states often call Punjab their “elder brother” but simultaneously attempt to exploit its resources. “Himachal Pradesh sometimes calls Punjab its elder brother while demanding a share in Chandigarh and royalty on water, while Haryana raises the demand for the SYL canal,” stated CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.
He added that because of the firm stand taken by the Punjab Government, for the first time Haryana has not allocated funds for the construction of the SYL canal in its budget.
Taking a dig at the absence of opposition members during the debate, the Chief Minister said that opposition leaders have never been serious about the issues of their constituencies and predicted that they will also disappear from the political map in 2027. “The Congress party is suffering from internal factionalism and cannot return to power,” stated CM Bhagwant Singh Mann. He added that the party’s condition has deteriorated to such an extent that it now wants to contest Assembly elections without declaring a Chief Ministerial face.
Holding the Shiromani Akali Dal responsible for damaging Punjab’s generations, the Chief Minister said that the party pushed youth into the quagmire of drugs and the path of gangsterism, which ruined entire generations. “Zomato was formed much later, but during the Akali government drugs were transported in government vehicles,” stated CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.
The Chief Minister further remarked that the Shiromani Akali Dal, which finished third in the Zila Parishad and Block Samiti elections, is day dreaming about forming the government in Punjab. “The Punjab Government is fully committed to the well-being of Punjab and the prosperity of its people, and no stone will be left unturned to achieve this goal,” affirmed CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, adding that the government will continue safeguarding the interests of the people of Punjab and take every possible step for their welfare.
The Punjab Assembly on Wednesday passed the State Budget for the Financial Year 2026–27 presented by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema after a comprehensive three day debate. Concluding the discussion in the House, the Finance Minister presented a detailed summary of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government’s work over the past four years and responded to the queries and suggestions raised by various MLAs during the debate.
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated, “Guided by AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal’s anti corruption principles and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s vision, the Punjab government’s zero tolerance policy toward theft has led to record breaking revenue growth. Excise revenue increased from ₹20,000 crore to ₹53,000 crore, while GST collections doubled from ₹61,000 crore to ₹1,21,000 crore. Additionally, stamp registration revenue rose significantly from ₹12,000 crore to ₹30,000 crore. This financial turnaround has been made possible through strict vigilance and honest governance.”
Referring to employment generation and the AAP government’s guarantees, Harpal Singh Cheema said, “When our government took its first Cabinet decision in 2022, we had promised to provide 30,000 government jobs. Today we have far exceeded that promise by delivering more than 63,000 government jobs to the youth of Punjab. This historic recruitment drive has helped curb the state’s brain drain and has created a positive environment for the younger generation.”
Responding to opposition concerns on state debt, he continued, “Eighty five percent of the state’s current funds are being utilised to service the massive debt inherited from previous governments. Despite this burden, our government has successfully reduced the debt to GDP ratio from 48 percent to 45 percent and cleared inherited liabilities worth ₹21,860 crore. At the same time, the state has strictly adhered to the limits set under the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act and has not resorted to excessive borrowing. Short term cash management has been handled efficiently through the Sinking Fund and Guarantee Redemption mechanisms, enabling the state to secure lower interest rates.”
Speaking about welfare measures, the Finance Minister added, “The government has successfully rolled out the ₹1,500 financial assistance for women, fulfilling all five major guarantees promised to the people of Punjab. Not a single rupee of sugarcane dues owed by the state government is pending. The outstanding ₹27 crore belongs to a private mill in Phagwara and its properties have already been attached to ensure farmers receive their rightful payments.”
Responding to a suggestion from MLA Rana Inder Pratap regarding a One Time Settlement for farmers, Harpal Singh Cheema said, “Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is actively pursuing the amalgamation of loss making banks with the Reserve Bank of India to facilitate such a settlement.”
Replying to questions raised by MLA Barindermeet Singh Pahra regarding MLA Local Area Development funds, he stated, “The MLA Local Area Development funds have been doubled from ₹5 crore to ₹10 crore per MLA, enabling elected representatives to bring forward comprehensive development proposals. There are certain guidelines for utilising these funds and MLAs should ensure that these guidelines are followed.”
Addressing infrastructure demands raised by MLA Nachhattar Pal and other newly elected members, the Punjab Minister added, “The budget has prioritised critical infrastructure projects. An allocation of ₹130 crore has been made for the construction of new bridges and roads across the state. The Home Affairs budget has been increased by seven percent to ₹11,577 crore. Capital outlay for constructing new police stations and police lines has also increased significantly from ₹297 crore to ₹480 crore.”
Addressing concerns raised by MLA Rana Inder Pratap regarding funding for the health insurance scheme, Harpal Singh Cheema said, “₹2,000 crore has been earmarked for the Health Insurance Scheme and if required this allocation can be increased later in the year.”
Welcoming suggestions from MLA Sukhwinder Sukhi regarding salaries of personal assistants and drivers, he added, “The House committee should forward its recommendations for the review of the Chief Minister.”
Speaking about employee welfare and pensions, the Punjab Finance Minister continued, “The government has cleared 100 percent of pending Dearness Allowance arrears for pensioners above 75 and 85 years of age for the period from January 2016 to June 2021. Funds have also been allocated to release the remaining arrears for current employees and pensioners starting from April 1.”
On the Old Pension Scheme, he said, “An expert committee led by the Chief Secretary is carefully studying the fiscal impact of the Old Pension Scheme to take a secure long term decision. The committee is also examining the financial challenges faced by states such as Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh after implementing similar policies. ₹100 crore has been allocated to celebrate the 650th birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas at Khuralgarh. Ten acres of land have also been purchased near Dera Ballan for establishing the Sri Guru Ravidas Ji Bani Adhyayan Center and its foundation will soon be laid by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.”
Speaking about future initiatives, the Punjab Minister added, “Funds have also been designated for establishing a new World University to commemorate the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur and work on the project will begin on a war footing.”
Concluding the discussion on the budget, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema reiterated the government’s commitment to development and said, “Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has promised to deliver water to the last field and the government remains fully committed to taking Punjab to new heights of prosperity ahead of 2027.”
The impact of the Gulf conflict (particularly the ongoing tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran) is now clearly visible in India. Disruptions in the international supply of crude oil and LPG have deepened the energy crisis, and the burden is being directly felt by common consumers.
Haryana Congress President Rao Narendra Singh, while interacting with journalists, expressed serious concern over the issue. He said that due to the Gulf conflict, disruptions in crude oil and LPG supplies have led to an increase in domestic gas cylinder prices in the country. Recently (from March 7, 2026), the price of the domestic 14.2 kg LPG cylinder has increased by ₹60, reaching ₹913 in Delhi, while the commercial 19 kg cylinder has become ₹115 costlier, rising to ₹1,883.
Rao Narendra Singh stated, “People who are already suffering from rising inflation are now facing a double burden due to the increasing prices and shortage of LPG cylinders. This has completely disturbed the household budget.” He warned that if the central government does not reduce prices and ensure smooth supply, the Haryana Congress will launch a statewide agitation. The shortage of domestic LPG cylinders in Haryana has become extremely worrying. According to reports, the state currently has only about seven days of stock remaining (around 3.5 days with Indian Oil, 7.1 days with Bharat Petroleum, and 5.8 days with Hindustan Petroleum). Long queues are being seen outside gas agencies, and people are facing serious inconvenience. Under directions from the central government, a minimum gap of 25 days has now been made mandatory between domestic cylinder bookings, while the supply of commercial cylinders has been halted until further orders. With the ongoing wedding season, the situation has become even more serious, creating an atmosphere of chaos.
In addition, around 250 gas-based textile and handloom industries in Panipat have reportedly shut down. Prices of polyester yarn have increased by nearly 20%, and businesses related to the food sector are also facing a severe crisis. If timely solutions are not found, both the general public and industries may suffer heavy economic losses.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had earlier warned about this crisis. He stated that tensions in the Gulf region threaten India’s energy security, as more than 40% of India’s oil imports and most LPG supplies pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Now the impact is becoming visible—LPG prices have increased, and petrol and diesel prices may also be affected in the near future.
He also criticized the central government, saying that the policies of the Modi government and its agreements with the United States have weakened India’s position, worsening the energy crisis.
The Congress party has demanded that the central government take immediate and concrete steps—boost LPG production, reduce prices, ensure smooth supply, and protect the public from hardship. If necessary, the party will also take the path of public protest.
This crisis is not limited to Haryana alone but is being felt across the country, with fears that hotels and restaurants in several cities may face closures. The government must prioritize energy security, public welfare, and alternative import sources, and take swift action.
Chandigarh: PGIMER Chandigarh on Monday organised an Integrated Media Interaction on Women’s Health today in observance of International Women’s Day. The programme brought together experts from multiple specialties to highlight key health concerns affecting women across the lifespan, including adolescent health, gynaecological issues, cancer prevention, gastrointestinal disorders and mental health. “True empowerment lies in ‘giving to gain’, the theme of this year’s Women’s Day—when we strengthen the health, dignity and wellbeing of women around us, society as a whole moves forward,” stated Prof. Sadhna Lal, Head, Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, emphasising that awareness and access to healthcare must extend beyond the professional community to include less empowered sections of society.
“While we celebrate the progress women have made over the decades, our real responsibility is to extend this progress to those who remain less empowered. At PGIMER, we are initiating regular health screening for sanitation staff and hospital attendants so that women who serve the institution every day are also supported in safeguarding their own health,” Prof. Lal added.
Highlighting the broader purpose of the initiative, Prof. Lal noted that the true spirit of Women’s Day lies in supporting and empowering women who often neglect their own health while balancing demanding professional and family responsibilities.
Addressing common gynaecological concerns, Prof. Rashmi Bagga, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, stressed that many women tend to ignore symptoms that require timely medical attention as she said, “Many women experience common gynaecological problems such as vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, painful periods or urinary symptoms, but they often ignore these issues until they become severe.”
Prof. Bagga further stated, “Most of these conditions are easily treatable if addressed early. Regular check-ups, awareness of warning signs, and simple screening tests like the Pap smear for cervical cancer are crucial to detect problems in time and prevent serious complications.”
Speaking on cancer awareness and prevention, Prof. Divya Dahiya, Department of General Surgery, highlighted the growing burden of certain cancers among women and the importance of early detection.
“Breast cancer incidence in India has nearly doubled over the last two decades, and today one in 24 women in the country is likely to develop the disease. What makes this particularly concerning is that, unlike in the West, many Indian women are diagnosed at a much younger age. Any lump in the breast, nipple discharge, or change in the skin must never be ignored. Regular self-breast examination and timely screening are simple but powerful steps that can lead to early detection and significantly improve outcomes,” Prof. Dahiya emphasised.
Prof. Dahiya also pointed to the increasing detection of thyroid disorders and thyroid cancer among women, which may present as a neck swelling and should be evaluated promptly.
Experts also highlighted the importance of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in preventing cervical cancer. Vaccines, particularly India’s indigenous vaccine Cervavac, provide protection against HPV infection. Vaccination is most effective when administered between 15–26 years of age, while screening through Pap smear remains important even for vaccinated individuals.
Speaking on the mental health dimension of women’s wellbeing, Dr. Nidhi Chauhan, Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, highlighted the multiple pressures faced by women in modern society.
“Mental health in women deserves much greater attention today because modern women are balancing multiple roles—professional responsibilities, family expectations and social pressures—at the same time. While women today have greater opportunities and visibility, this progress has also come with increased pressures, making it essential to openly discuss mental health and create supportive environments both at home and in the workplace,” Dr. Chauhan said.
Dr. Chauhan also addressed the growing concern of digital dependence, ““The rapidly expanding digital ecosystem and increasing dependence on social media have emerged as significant contributors to mental health concerns across all age groups. From adolescents to adults, excessive digital engagement can affect relationships, emotional wellbeing and overall quality of life. Encouraging balanced, mindful use of technology is essential for protecting mental health in today’s increasingly connected world.” she added.
Dr. Chauhan emphasised the need to normalise conversations around mental health and encourage peer support as well as timely professional help whenever individuals feel overwhelmed.
Discussing gastrointestinal health in women, Prof. Usha Dutta, Head, Department of Gastroenterology, highlighted, “Gallstones are a common but often overlooked problem among women. Risk factors include obesity, multiple pregnancies, hormonal influences, rapid weight loss and certain dietary patterns. Women frequently ignore symptoms such as upper abdominal pain, nausea or discomfort after fatty meals, which may indicate gallstone disease.”
Prof. Dutta emphasised that early diagnosis and appropriate management can prevent complications such as infection of the gall bladder, pancreatitis and bile duct obstruction. Maintaining a healthy weight, balanced diet and regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of gallstone formation.
On the occasion, Prof. Usha Dutta, who is also the Editor-in-Chief of the Indian Journal of Gastroenterology (IJG), released a special issue titled “Women and Gastroenterology.” The issue explores the intersection between gender and gastrointestinal as well as liver health, while also examining the professional landscape for women physicians in the specialty.
The special issue brings together expert reviews on gastrointestinal and liver diseases affecting women across the lifespan—from adolescence and reproductive years to menopause. Particular attention has been given to pregnancy-related gastrointestinal and liver disorders, including intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, portal hypertension and acute fatty liver of pregnancy.
It also discusses conditions that disproportionately affect women such as autoimmune liver diseases, metabolic syndrome, functional gastrointestinal disorders and gastrointestinal cancers, while examining the influence of socio-cultural determinants including health-seeking behaviour, stigma and access to care.
The release event was attended by members of the Editorial Board of the Indian Journal of Gastroenterology, including Managing Editor Dr. Vishal Sharma, Associate Editor Dr. Jayanta Samanta, Science Editors Dr. Jimil Shah and Dr. Vaneet Jearth, and Assistant Managing Editor Nikita Sharma.
The programme concluded with an interactive session with media representatives, during which experts reiterated that awareness, preventive screening, vaccination, healthy lifestyle practices and timely medical consultation remain the most effective strategies to improve women’s health outcomes.
