Chandigarh:

Thalassaemic Charitable Trust (TCT) PGIMER Chandigarh jointly with Bhavan’s Old Students Society & Bhavan Vidyalaya School, Chandigarh and Thalassaemic

Children Welfare Society Rajpura organized its 334th and 335th Blood Donation Camps on 23rd May 2026 at Bhavan Vidyalaya School, New Chandigarh and on 24th May 2026 at Rajpura with the coordination of Deptt. of Transfusion Medicine

PGIMER Chandigarh to ensure the smooth supply of blood for thalassaemic patients and other needy patients. Hon’ble 67 and 84 (total 151) Blood Donors donated blood in these camps respectively. Blood Donors were honoured by presenting them with certificates, badges, and tokens of appreciation in recognition of their noble

contribution. TCT made comprehensive arrangements for the comfort and convenience of the donors and also set up a dedicated Thalassemia Awareness Desk to educate participants about thalassaemia and the importance of regular voluntary blood donation.

On this occasion, the urgent need for regular voluntary blood donation was emphasized, appealing to the general public to come forward and help save precious lives that depend on timely blood support.

Prof.(Dr.) R.R. Sharma, Head, Department of Transfusion Medicine, and Members of TCT, expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all the voluntary blood donors. They also appreciated the dedicated efforts of the teams from Deptt. of Transfusion Medicine and TCT team for ensuring the smooth and successful conduct of these camps.

Chandigarh:

The National Institute of Nursing Education (NINE), PGIMER Chandigarh, successfully concluded Seven-Day Workshop on “Understanding the Basics of Research Methodology” on 24^th May 2026 at NINE, PGIMER Chandigarh. The workshop was funded by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Government of India, New Delhi.

The workshop aimed to strengthen research competencies among nursing professionals, and academicians from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh by providing comprehensive training and hand on session in various aspects of research methodology.

The workshop featured an intensive academic program covering a wide range of topics including identification of research problems using PICOT format, ethical aspects of research, quantitative, qualitative research designs, and mixed methods research, sampling techniques, validity and reliability of research tools, data collection methods, statistical analysis,  and writing manuscript for publication.

The workshop was organized under the expert guidance of Dr Sukhpal Kaur, Principal NINE. Distinguished faculty members and experts from PGIMER Chandigarh including  Dr. Sushma Kumari Saini, Dr. Saurabh Dutta, Dr. Manju Dhandapani, Dr. Joseph L. Mathew, Dr. Nitasha Sharma, Dr. Madhu Gupta, Dr. Kavita Narang, Dr. Ashok Kumar, Dr. Ankita, Dr Ajay Prakash and Dr. Geetanjli Kalyan were the resource persons.

The workshop emphasized hands-on learning through daily group activities and practical sessions on literature search, development of research proposal for funding, sample size calculation, use of different softwares like SPSS, MS Excel and Zotero, and  tool development. Participants were actively engaged in group work daily and presented research proposals during the concluding session.The workshop received enthusiastic participation and positive feedback from attendees, who appreciated the practical orientation and expert guidance provided throughout the program.

The organizers highlighted that such initiatives are essential for promoting evidence-based nursing practice and enhancing research culture among healthcare professionals. The workshop concluded with a commitment by the participants to continue the developed proposal in their area of work with hand holding from the experts of the institute. 

Chandigarh:

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Indian Women Network (IWN), Chandigarh Tricity Chapter, organised SheBuilds Conclave on the theme ‘From Vision to Venture: Women Building Tomorrow’, bringing together distinguished women leaders, entrepreneurs and industry experts for insightful discussions on leadership, innovation, branding, financial growth and breaking barriers across sectors.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms Sakshi Katyal, Chairperson, IWN Chandigarh Tricity Chapter, said, “SheBuilds Conclave was envisioned as a platform to celebrate and empower women who are transforming industries with courage, creativity and leadership. Through meaningful conversations and shared experiences, we aim to inspire more women to turn their vision into impactful ventures.”

The conclave commenced with welcome remarks and context setting by Sakshi Katyal, Chairperson, IWN Chandigarh Tricity Chapter. The event also featured addresses by Ms Sandeep Riat, Managing Director, Akal Spring Ltd.; Nandini Chaudhary, Chairperson, IWN Northern Region; and Chief Guest Hargunjit Kaur, Managing Director, Punjab Agro Industries Corporation Ltd. Rachna Jindal, Regional Director, CII NR too participated in the inaugural session. The closing remarks were delivered by Dr Lipi Pathak, Co-Chairperson, IWN Chandigarh Tricity Chapter.

The first panel discussion on ‘Scaling Aesthetics and Brand Loyalty’ explored how businesses can strategically scale their aesthetic appeal while strengthening customer loyalty in a competitive market. The session highlighted the importance of aligning design, branding and customer experience to create a memorable and consistent identity, while leveraging innovation and digital engagement to sustain long-term brand value.

The panel was moderated by Ritu Kochhar, Founder Director, INIFD. Panelists included Suruchi Savlani, Managing Director, Colour Lounge; Drishti Mishra Khurana, Executive Director, Khurana Jewellery House; and Rinki Dhingra, Chief Executive Officer, Violla Marketing & Events. The session concluded with closing remarks by Ritu Kochhar.

The second panel discussion on ‘Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Traditional Strongholds’ focused on the challenges and opportunities for women leaders in traditionally male-dominated industries. Speakers shared their experiences of overcoming systemic barriers, redefining leadership norms and fostering inclusive growth through resilience and collaboration.

The session was moderated by Taruna, Financial Analyst, Tynor Pvt. Ltd. Panelists included Nisha Luthra, Founder and Director, The Narrators Performing Art Society; Ritu Bhatia, Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer, Wade Maritime Group; and Inderjit Aulakh, Founder, Mpro Realtors Pvt. Ltd. The discussion concluded with closing remarks by Taruna.

The final panel discussion on ‘The Future of Human & Financial Capital’ examined the evolving dynamics of workforce development, innovation and sustainable financial growth in today’s rapidly transforming economy. Experts discussed strategies for investing in talent, optimizing resources and integrating technology to enhance long-term value creation.

The session was moderated by Upasana Todi, Co-Founder, Wah Tea. Panelists included Nandini Chaudhary, Chairperson, IWN Northern Region; Dr Amanjot Kaur, Director, Innovative Financial Management; and Vanshika Mittal, Founder and Owner, Floreal. The discussion concluded with closing remarks by Upasana Todi.

Dr Lipi Pathak, Co-Chairperson, IWN Chandigarh Tricity Chapter, said, “The conclave reflected the strength of collaboration, innovation and resilience among women leaders. As industries evolve, it is important to continue building ecosystems that encourage inclusion, mentorship and sustainable growth for future generations.”

The conclave witnessed enthusiastic participation from entrepreneurs, professionals, industry leaders and aspiring women change makers, reaffirming CII IWN’s commitment to fostering leadership, entrepreneurship and inclusive growth.

Zirakpur(Mohali) , May 22, 2026: Senior BJP leader Sanjay Tandon on Friday campaigned for BJP candidate Suresh Khatkar ahead of the upcoming Municipal Council elections in Zirakpur scheduled for May 26.
Addressing an election promotional meeting held at Ravindra Apartment in Zirakpur, Tandon appealed to residents to support the BJP candidate to ensure continued development, better civic amenities, and transparent governance in the area.
The meeting witnessed the presence of several prominent BJP leaders and local representatives, including Shyam Lal Bansal, Mayor, Panchkula; Sanjeev Khanna, former Deputy Mayor of Chandigarh Anil Dubey, On Prakash, Ranjeeta Mehta, and election in-charge Rakesh Gupta.
Speaking on the occasion, Tandon said the BJP remains committed to strengthening urban infrastructure and delivering citizen-centric governance. He emphasized that the upcoming elections are crucial for accelerating development works in Zirakpur and ensuring effective civic administration.
The meeting saw enthusiastic participation from local residents and members of the Residents Welfare Society of Ravindra Apartment.

Chandigarh, May 22, 2026:

Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria interacted with children from Government Schools and Child Care Institutions during “Baal Sabha: Mann Ka Samvad 2.0”, organised by the Department of Social Welfare, Women & Child Development, Chandigarh Administration. The programme provided a meaningful and child-friendly platform for children to openly share their thoughts, aspirations and concerns, while reinforcing collective commitment towards child rights, protection, participation and empowerment.

Ms. Anuradha Chagti, Secretary, Social Welfare, Women & Child Development, welcomed the Guests and dignitaries at the event. The Hon’ble Administrator launched “Pathshala Rath: Safe Space for Children in Street Situations and Vulnerable Children Residing in the Community” in the presence of Shri H. Rajesh Prasad, IAS, Chief Secretary, Chandigarh Administration; Dr. Sagar Preet Hooda, IPS, Director General of Police; Shri Amandeep Singh Bhatti, Additional Deputy Commissioner; Ms. Radhika Singh, Director Social Welfare; Ms. Suman, Director Health Services; Ms. Shipra Bansal, Chairperson, CCPCR, along with members of the Child Welfare Committee, Juvenile Justice Board and District Child Protection Unit.

The Pathshala Rath initiative aims to connect vulnerable children with education, healthcare, counselling and skill development support in a safe environment. On the occasion, the Hon’ble Administrator also released the booklet “बाल शक्ति: अधिकार से आत्मविश्वास तक” to promote awareness regarding children’s rights, safety and holistic development under the UNCRC and child welfare legislations.

Addressing the gathering, the Hon’ble Administrator described children as the nation’s greatest strength and emphasised that education is not only a means of professional success, but also the foundation of character and nation building. He urged children to adopt values of honesty, discipline, perseverance and service towards society. Referring to the life of A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, Shri Kataria encouraged children to overcome hardships through determination and hard work. He also advised children to choose their peer groups wisely and remain in the company of positive and responsible individuals who inspire good values and meaningful goals in life.

During “Mann Ka Samvad”, Shri Kataria warmly interacted with the children and shared motivational experiences from his life. Through an inspirational story of a sculptor shaping an ordinary stone into a beautiful idol, he explained that struggles and challenges help shape one’s personality and success. He further encouraged children to respect their teachers, help others, remain connected with good values and work sincerely towards their dreams.

Addressing the gathering, Shri H. Rajesh Prasad, IAS, Chief Secretary, Chandigarh Administration, encouraged children to remain disciplined and focused towards their goals. He also appreciated the efforts being undertaken by Child Care Institutions for the welfare, rehabilitation and protection of children.

The Hon’ble Administrator also felicitated Master Vansh Tayal of Children Home Snehalaya for Boys, recipient of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025, for his exceptional contribution towards social service and humanity. Appreciating his courage and compassion despite personal hardships, Shri Kataria described him as an inspiration for other children.

The cultural segment of the event powerfully reflected patriotism, talent and social consciousness through inspiring performances by the children of Snehalaya for Girls and Boys. The programme began with the National Song, followed by a graceful Saraswati Vandana. Children also showcased a theatrical presentation on the rescue and rehabilitation of missing children that deeply touched the audience and underscored the importance of Child Helpline 1098 and the child protection mechanisms working tirelessly in UT Chandigarh for the care, safety and rehabilitation of vulnerable children.

The programme concluded with a valedictory address by Smt. Radhika Singh, Director Social Welfare, Women & Child Development, Chandigarh Administration, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, stakeholders and children for making the event a meaningful and memorable success.

Chandigarh:

18 countries Health professionals witnessed best practices of Organ donation, Telemedicine, Tele-evidence and green hospital concept at PGIMER, Chandigarh

The key to success in public health lies in innovation and its effective implementation, said Dr. Navneet Dhaliwal, Additional Professor-cum-Joint Medical Superintendent, PGIMER, Chandigarh, while briefing the delegates on the concept of a green hospital during the field visit of 41 international delegates from 18 countries participating in the 33rd International Public Health Management Development Program, organized by PGIMER, Chandigarh, with support from the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.

PGIMER has excelled in providing state-of-the-art digital healthcare services to the citizens of the country and has emerged as a torchbearer for the Digital Health Mission, said Dr. Sonu Goel, Program Director. He further added that over the past decade, the successful delivery of the program to more than 1,700 professionals has enabled participants to appreciate PGIMER’s best practices and replicate them in their respective countries.

PGIMER has won the prestigious Platinum rating award for the green hospital building, she shared during the tour. During the field visit to PGIMER Chandigarh, delegates witnessed state-of-art practices; ROTTO centre (Regional Organ & Tissue Transplant Organisation), Tele- Evidence and Telemedicine centre. The International Delegates reiterated their commitment for the noble cause of Organ Donation. ROTTO is the first organ transplant in the country and has consistently received the best centre since its inception in 2015-2016 and has been awarded the national award for highest number of deceased organ donors, shared by the faculty of Department of Hospital Administration, PGIMER, Chandigarh.

The senior delegates also visited the Tele evidence, the first in the country to initiate Tele evidence i:e testimony of doctors through video conferencing, rather than their physical presence in the court. This facility has saved 1.92 crores over a period of 2 years said Consultant Tele-evidence, besides saving 30000 hours of doctors. The innovative practice of Tele-medicine was also demonstrated, which is connected to the neighbouring states and SAARC countries for providing basic and highly specialised care.

Ropar:

The Indian Institute of Technology Ropar (IIT Ropar) has been conferred the Best Institute Award at Samagam 4.0, the annual Leaders Conclave and Startup Awards organised by Ludhiana Angels Network (LAN). The award was presented by the Hon’ble Governor of Punjab, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria. Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director, IIT Ropar, received the award on behalf of the institution.

Organised under the theme of Fashion and Textiles this year, the event brought together more than 300 stakeholders including startup founders, angel investors, industry veterans, academic leaders and policymakers. Titles were bestowed across five categories, with IIT Ropar being recognized for its outstanding contribution to promoting entrepreneurship and innovation among students.

Prof Ahuja Said, “This recognition reflects the hard work of our students, faculty and the entire IIT Ropar community. We remain committed to building a culture of innovation that translates into real-world impact for Punjab and the Nation.”

Located on a 525-acre campus on the banks of the Sutlej River in Rupnagar, Punjab, the institute has been at the forefront of research-led education, interdisciplinary innovation and startup incubation. Its active engagement with industry, government bodies and the broader startup ecosystem of Punjab has been a defining feature of its institutional identity.

Chandigarh, May 22 — Haryana’s Energy, Transport and Labour Minister, Sh. Anil Vij strongly reacted to former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s statement that the BJP government in Delhi would not last long. He said that defeated and rejected political figures make such statements. He further said that Mamata Banerjee’s political relevance has ended and that people have now seen her true face. According to him, she will never again be able to establish a significant place in politics.

Sh. Vij was interacting with media persons today in Ambala Cantonment.

Referring to the Chief Minister’s visit to the Shaheed Smarak dedicated to the First War of Independence in Ambala, Sh. Vij said that Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini spent nearly four hours at the memorial yesterday and closely observed every aspect of it. He added that the Chief Minister described it as a great tribute to the martyrs of the nation.

*“Prime Minister Narendra Modi brought billions of dollar in investment, not sightseeing” — Anil Vij responds to Rahul Gandhi*

Responding sharply to Rahul Gandhi calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Italy visit a “drama,” Energy Minister Anil Vij said Rahul Gandhi was upset because Prime Minister Modi had visited his maternal homeland. He said that Prime Minister Modi had gone abroad in the interest of the country and had brought back investments worth billions of dollars. He added that unlike Rahul Gandhi, Prime Minister Modi does not travel abroad for leisure or “aimless roaming.” According to Vij, Modi’s foreign visits are aimed at strengthening India’s relations with other nations, improving international coordination, and ensuring the country’s progress and development.

Addressing concerns regarding economic difficulties, Sh. Vij said the government should not be blamed entirely, as ongoing global wars and conflicts were not initiated by India. He noted that products imported from abroad, including crude oil, had become significantly more expensive, with oil prices rising from around $70 per barrel to over $100 per barrel. He further said that due to Prime Minister Modi’s strong diplomatic relations with other countries, India continues to receive essential supplies smoothly. He expressed confidence that the situation would improve once global conditions stabilize.

*“The cow is our revered mother and every Indian should respect her” — Anil Vij*

On former Muslim litigant in the Babri Masjid–Ram Janmabhoomi case Iqbal Ansari urging the Central Government to declare the cow as the national animal and appealing to the Muslim community to respect Hindu sentiments, Cabinet Minister Anil Vij said that it was a very positive statement. He added that other Muslims across India, especially those in Bengal, should learn from this sentiment. Sh. Vij said that the cow is revered as a mother in Indian culture and every Indian should respect her.

Chandigarh, May 22 – The Haryana Government has initiated preparations for a major transformation in the functioning and performance assessment of government employees. The state government has decided to introduce a revised ACR (Annual Confidential Report) framework along with a Digital Performance Monitoring System to digitally monitor the work performance of employees and officers.

In this regard, Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi has issued directions to all Administrative Secretaries, Heads of Departments, Boards and Corporations, Universities, and District Administrations.

According to the instructions issued, the traditional ACR system will gradually be converted into a fully digital mechanism. Department-wise new ACR formats will be developed in which employees’ work, achievements, and performance will be recorded in a measurable and result-oriented manner to ensure objective evaluation of performance.

The government has also sought lists from all departments identifying officers and employees at whose level the maximum number of ACRs are pending. The objective behind this exercise is to eliminate pendency in ACRs and ensure greater accountability and timely evaluations.

The instructions clearly state that the manual ACR system will be completely discontinued from April 2027. Thereafter, all evaluations will be conducted through a digital platform. NIC or a designated technical team will develop an online platform that will directly link employees’ work performance and achievements with the ACR system. The entire mechanism will be integrated with the HRMS portal, enabling real-time assessment of employees’ work.

A special “Honour Board” will also be developed on the Chief Secretary’s website, where performance-based rankings of employees will be displayed according to prescribed parameters. This system will be implemented at the state, district, and block levels. Rankings of both high-performing and poor-performing employees will be displayed under the system.

The government believes that the new digital and performance-based ACR system will significantly improve administrative efficiency, transparency, and accountability, while also promoting a better work culture and competitive spirit among employees.

Chandigarh, May 22

A high-level meeting was held in Panchkula under the chairmanship of  Special Secretary, Energy Department and Managing Director, Uttar Haryana and Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigams, Sh. Vikram Singh, to review the effective implementation and progress of the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY).

During the meeting, the Managing Director reviewed in detail the applications received under the scheme, the approved cases, the installation of rooftop solar plants, and the pending cases. He directed officials to expedite the implementation of the scheme and ensure timely benefits for consumers. He also emphasised the need for the quick resolution of issues being faced at different levels.

He directed all officials and vendors to accelerate the installation of rooftop solar systems while maintaining quality standards. He also directed that consumer applications should not remain pending, and installation work must be completed within the fixed timeline. To improve coordination with vendors and ensure quick resolution of issues, a regular coordination meeting will be held on the first Wednesday of every month.

Bank officials present in the meeting were requested to simplify and speed up the loan approval and disbursement process under the scheme so that consumers do not face financial difficulties. Officials said that faster banking procedures would help more people benefit from the scheme.

During the review meeting, Sh. Vikram Singh also reviewed the progress reports of different circles and divisions. Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam has released 36,130 connections against its target of 1,22,000, while Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam has released 45,605 connections against its target of 1,00,000. In this way, both Nigams have released a total of 81,735 connections.

The Managing Director further directed officials to conduct awareness campaigns at the field level to make consumers aware of the benefits of the rooftop solar scheme. He said the scheme will help reduce electricity bills and promote clean and green energy. The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is an ambitious scheme of the Government of India aimed at connecting domestic consumers with solar energy and promoting energy self-reliance.