Chandigarh, 18th April 2026 : GCC School, an initiative of KC Globed, in collaboration with the Punjab Unaided Colleges Association (PUCA), hosted a press conference in PHD Chamber, Chandigarh under the theme “From Campus to Corporate: Creating Global Financial Leaders.” bringing together key voices from academia, government, and industry.

The leadership meet scheduled after the press conference in the evening was graced by Chief Guest S. Harpal Singh Cheema, Hon’ble Finance Minister, Government of Punjab. The gathering aims to foster meaningful dialogue on building globally aligned career pathways for commerce graduates through stronger academia–industry collaboration. More than 15 commerce teachers were felicitated by the Hon’ble Minister, S. Harpal Singh Cheema for their outstanding services in the region, in the presence of over 100 academic leaders from across Punjab at the event.

GCC School is the brainchild of Dr. Kamal Chhabra, a well-known name in international finance education and the Founder and CEO of KC GlobEd. With GCC School, Dr. Chhabra has extended this vision further, building a structured pathway that connects education directly with employability in Global Capability Centres and multinational organisations.

Dr. Kamal Chhabra, Founder & CEO, GCC School and KC GlobEd said, “Punjab’s current GDP stands at approximately $110 billion, growing at around 6-7% annually, with a per capita income of about inr 2.3 lakh per annum. While country like India have significantly scaled their Global Capability Centers (GCCs)—with India hosting around 1,850 centers employing 2.6 million people and contributing around $65 billion—Punjab lags behind with only 5–7 GCCs, fewer than 1,000 employees, and less than $200 million in contribution in state gdp. The objective is to bridge this gap by creating over 10,000 jobs in Punjab and driving an additional year-over-year contribution of approximately $2 billion to strengthen the province’s GDP, particularly through the growth of the services sector in finance, accounts,audit and tax domain.”

“At KC GlobEd, we began by training students for global finance roles through certifications like US CPA, US CMA, US EA, and UK ACCA. However, we soon realized that training alone wasn’t enough—there was a need to directly connect talent with real corporate opportunities. This led to the creation of GCC School and our unique philosophy ‘Get Hired First, Then Trained’ approach, bringing the Global Capability Centre model into education. Here, students are selected, hired, and then trained in line with industry needs—making them job-ready for global roles while working from India. This model is truly one of its kind.” added Dr. Chhabra.

Prof. (Dr.) Manpreet S. Manna, Executive Director, GCC School and Former Director, AICTE, highlighted the model’s industry-first approach, stating, ““GCC School is built around real industry expectations, with a structured pathway—from the National Finance Entrance Test to assessments and industry interactions—ensuring both aptitude and readiness. With globally aligned learning, including the UK ACCA curriculum and communication training with the British Council, the focus remains on outcomes, with students securing placements starting at ₹10 lakh per annum,” he said, adding that this integrated approach prepares graduates for roles in Big firms and MNCs through a curriculum aligned with evolving industry needs.

Representing the academic ecosystem, Dr Anshu Kataria Chairman Aryans Group of Colleges Chandigarh President Punjab Unaided Colleges Association, said, “Colleges today are focused on improving student career outcomes, and such partnerships open doors to global opportunities. PUCA is pleased to collaborate with GCC School, as initiatives like these demonstrate how aligned efforts between academia and industry can create meaningful, real-world impact for students.”

The conference saw participation from Dr. Kamal Chhabra, Founder and CEO of KC GlobEd. With GCC School, Prof. (Dr.) Manpreet S. Manna, Executive Director, GCC School and Former Director, AICTE, Shri Anshu Kataria, President, PUCA & Chairman, Arya Group of Colleges, Mrs. Sonal Goel (IAS), Resident Commissioner, Tripura Bhawan, New Delhi and senior academicians alongside institutional leaders and young finance aspirants across Chandigarh and Punjab.

The dialogue concluded with a shared perspective that commerce education in India is entering a phase of redefinition. As global finance roles continue to expand, the emphasis is gradually shifting toward structured preparation coupled with international alignment & early exposure to professional environments.

Chandigarh, April 18

In a significant boost to the region’s sporting ecosystem, Dikshant International School has unveiled a world-class cricket academy at its Dera Bassi campus in collaboration with CricKingdom, mentored by Rohit Sharma. The academy aims to bring structured, international-standard coaching to aspiring cricketers across Tricity and Punjab. Details of the academy which was inaugurated by Vishal Sharma, Rohit Sharma’s brother who is also Director of Operations for CricKingdom Academy By Rohit Sharma. Later details of the academy were shared with media by Mitul Dikshit, Chairman of Dikshant Group of Schools, Vishal Sharma & Gururaj YS Sales Head for CricKingdom Academy by Rohit Sharma.

Mitul Dikshit, said that the initiative underscores a strong commitment to nurturing young talent. “At Dikshant, we believe in creating meaningful pathways for young talent. Alongside the academy, we are developing a dedicated sports hostel and will actively scout talent across North India, offering structured training and scholarships to promising players,” he said.

The academy is designed around the philosophy and approach associated with Rohit Sharma’s cricketing excellence. CricKingdom’s globally standardised training framework, which combines professional coaching with advanced technology and performance analytics is all set to ensure holistic player development. Rohit Sharma will also visit the academy at regular intervals to share tips with young trainees, special camps too will be held.

Speaking on the launch, Vishal Sharma, said, “CricKingdom’s focus is on producing world-class cricketers from the region by bringing global best practices to grassroots training. This academy is a step towards building a strong pipeline of talent equipped to compete at the highest levels.”

He added, “Punjab and the Tricity region have immense untapped potential. With the right infrastructure, coaching, and exposure, we aim to create a new generation of disciplined, high-performing cricketers ready for competitive and professional platforms.”

The academy was inaugurated by Vishal Sharma, as Rohit Sharma is currently engaged with commitments during the Indian Premier League season. It is open to all aspiring students & young cricketers from the region.

Adding a market perspective, Gururaj YS said, “We expect an extremely encouraging response from the region. Our aim is to make world-class cricket training accessible, structured, and scalable.”

With this collaboration, Dikshant International School, Dera Bassi positions itself as an emerging hub for cricketing excellence, offering players the opportunity to train under a globally recognised system and pursue the sport at a competitive level.

Chandigarh, April 18, 2026

EPIC 2026, a premier national medical conference, took off here at Hyatt Regency Chandigarh, witnessing participation from over 600 doctors and healthcare professionals across the country. The event was graced by Kiran Bedi, India’s First Woman IPS Officer and Former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry as the Chief Guest.

In her keynote address, she spoke with great conviction on leadership, perseverance, and integrity, highlighting courage and resilience as essential values in both public service and the medical profession—leaving a strong impression on the audience.

Advocating women empowerment, she encouraged greater representation of women in leadership roles and acknowledged their significant contribution to nation-building. She also appreciated Chandigarh for its urban planning, cleanliness, and tourism appeal, while thoughtfully addressing the importance of effective traffic management and responsible civic participation.

Chandigarh:

The Sirsa MP, General Secretary of All India Congress Committee and former Union minister Kumari Selja launched a sharp attack on the BJP, alleging that attempts were being made to weaken democratic institutions under the guise of women’s reservation. Kumari Selja claimed that the opposition had foiled what she described as an effort to alter political balance through the delimitation process. Kumari Selja said that this is not just about women’s rights but about protecting the constitutional framework and federal structure. She alleged that the government was trying to link women’s reservation with delimitation in a manner that could reshape electoral representation to its advantage. She added such moves undermine the spirit of democracy and the Constitution.

Referring to the 2023 law on women’s reservation, Kumari Selja demanded that 33% quota for women be implemented from the 2029 Lok Sabha elections without delay. Any postponement, she said, would amount to injustice to women. Kumari Selja further alleged that the ruling party has repeatedly used the issue of women’s empowerment for political gains without taking substantial steps on the ground. According to her, women and youth are now increasingly aware of these concerns. Calling the issue larger than politics, Kumari Selja said it relates to safeguarding democratic values and the country’s future. She asserted that the Congress would continue to press for effective implementation of women’s reservation and protection of constitutional principles.

Chandigarh:

In a significant step towards strengthening patient care and hospital efficiency, the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh has received 25 barcode printers from Know Thyself as Soul Foundation.

The donation supports PGIMER’s newly implemented barcode-based system for laboratory and radiology services, aimed at streamlining processes, reducing waiting times, and minimizing crowding at Medical Record counters. The installation of these printers at the ward level is expected to significantly enhance patient convenience and operational efficiency.

Expressing gratitude, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER, stated, ““This thoughtful contribution marks a meaningful step towards strengthening our patient-centric systems. The integration of barcode technology at the ward level will significantly enhance efficiency, reduce waiting times, and ensure a smoother experience for patients. We deeply appreciate such collaborations that align with our vision of delivering seamless, technology-driven healthcare.”

Mr. Pankaj Rai, Deputy Director (Administration), added, “The addition of these barcode printers will greatly improve operational flow, particularly in lab and radiology services. By decentralizing key processes, we are minimizing crowding at record counters and bringing convenience closer to the patient. We commend Know Thyself as Soul Foundation for their valuable support in advancing hospital administration and patient care.”

Such initiatives by Know Thyself as Soul Foundation reflect a strong commitment to social responsibility and meaningful contribution to the healthcare sector.

Chandigarh:

World Liver Day 2026 will be observed on April 19, 2026. 

Theme for this year is “Solid Habits, Strong Liver” highlights four solid habits that keep your liver strong. This means that small, healthy daily habits can keep your liver strong and prevent diseases said Prof Sunil Taneja, from the department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical education & Research, Chandigarh, India.

The four solid habits which we have to inculcate in our daily routine are:

·       Eating a balanced nutritional diet

·       Staying active by regular physical activity

·       Reducing and stopping alcohol intake

·       Regular liver health checks

By making these habits part of your daily life, you can take control of your liver health and prevent serious complications said Prof Taneja

·       Nutrition and Exercise are not just a part of treatment—they are “foundational” to liver health said Prof Sunil Taneja who has published important research papers in international journals on the positive impact of nutrition in liver disease. He emphasised that small daily changes can make a big difference for your liver health. He said that the liver does a lot of heavy lifting: it filters toxins, processes nutrients, helps with digestion, and keeps our metabolism running smoothly.

World Liver Day is a global call to action with an idea to raise awareness, break the stigma around liver disease, and empower people with knowledge to make healthier choices because a healthier liver means a healthier life.

The liver is a vital organ that performs over many functions to detoxify the body, metabolize nutrients, and support digestion. Yet, millions suffer from liver diseases like hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

 What are the common causes of chronic liver disease?

The common causes of chronic liver disease  which are the major contributors to global health challenges are Fatty liver disease or MASLD (Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease), alcohol related liver disease and Hepatitis B and HCV infection. World-wide, MASLD affects approximately 25–30% of adults in the general population, and up to 50% of the urban population in India. Fatty liver is seen in about  50-60 % of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and almost all patients with obesity. Fatty liver and alcohol related liver disease are becoming the leading indication for liver transplant worldwide now.

What is Metabolic dysfunction Associated Fatty liver Disease (MAFLD), or in simple words Fatty Liver disease?

Fatty liver is the result of the accumulation of excess fat in liver cells. Fatty tissue slowly builds up in the liver when fat in a person’s diet exceeds the amount his or her body can handle. A person has a fatty liver when fat makes up at least 5-10% of the liver. Simple fatty liver can be a completely benign condition and usually does not lead to liver damage. However, once there is a build-“up of fat, the liver becomes vulnerable to further injury, which may result in inflammation and scarring of the liver.

The most common cause of fatty liver disease is obesity and other conditions that contribute to fatty liver disease are high blood sugars (Diabetes Mellitus), elevated lipids in the blood (Hyperlipidemia) and high blood pressure (Hypertension).

Prof Taneja said that modern lifestyle changes are a key contributor to this type of liver disease. Factors like unhealthy diet, reduced physical activity, sedentary behaviour, poor sleep pattern and mental stress all contribute to development of life style diseases.

What are the symptoms of fatty liver disease?

Fatty liver is often called a “silent disease” as most patients do not experience any noticeable symptoms. A small percentage of patients may complain of vague discomfort in the abdomen, generalized weakness, and fatigue. However if the fatty liver progresses and is associated with inflammation in the liver it may lead to development of cirrhosis and its complications including liver cancer. Because symptoms are often absent, regular health check-ups and early screening play a crucial role in identifying fatty liver disease before it advances said Prof Taneja.

How is fatty liver disease diagnosed?

Fatty liver disease is often suspected when patients present with an enlarged liver or show abnormal results in routine liver function tests. To confirm the condition, we commonly recommend an ultrasound, which can indicate the presence of excess fat in the liver said Prof Taneja . For a more detailed assessment, an advanced, non-invasive test known as FibroScan is widely used. This technique not only detects and quantifies fat accumulation in the liver but also evaluates the degree of scarring (fibrosis). Today, FibroScan is available in most hospitals, making early and accurate diagnosis more accessible said Prof Taneja.

What is the treatment of fatty liver disease?

Patients are advised to achieve a gradual and sustained weight loss through proper nutrition and exercise. Patients with diabetes and high lipids in their blood have to improve their sugar control and lower lipids levels. Usually, a low fat and a low-calorie diet is recommended along with medications to lower blood sugar in people with diabetes.

What is the current status on the use of weight loss medications?

In recent years, a new class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists has gained popularity for weight loss. While these medications can be effective, they are not a quick fix and caution is essential said Prof Taneja. It is important to understand that GLP-1 drugs should only be used under medical supervision as they come with potential side effects.

Can fatty liver disease be prevented?

A healthy lifestyle will prevent obesity, which is the most frequent cause of fatty liver disease.

Specific suggestions for preventing fatty liver disease:

o   Avoid alcohol.

o   Choose a healthy lifestyle.

o   Aim for a gradual and sustained weight loss if you are obese.

o   Diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber.

o   Daily exercise

This year’s theme reminds us that what we eat and how active we are directly affects how well our liver works. It highlights that how balanced nutrition  and physical activity can be a game-changer for liver health. A balanced diet rich in whole foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps prevent disease and supports liver function.  We  recommend at least 150 minutes/ week of exercise which is an achievable changes to your lifestyle for improving fatty liver. Whether it’s walking, cycling, swimming, dancing, or lifting weights, every bit of activity supports a stronger, healthier liver said Prof Taneja.

Chandigarh:

On 19 April, 2026, PGIMER Chandigarh will join the global medical community in observing World Liver Day.  This year’s theme, “Solid Habits, Strong Liver,” emphasizes that the health of this vital organ is determined by the consistent daily choices we make. *Globally, more than 1.5 billion individuals have underlying chronic liver disease. Driven by rising rates of obesity and high blood sugar, the prevalence of liver disease has increased by over 140% since 1990.

In India alone, around 2 in every 5 adults have underlying metabolic-dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The burden of alcohol-related liver disease and chronic viral hepatitis is also quite high in Chandigarh and its neighbouring states. “Fortunately, all the common causes of liver disease namely MASLD, alcohol-related liver disease and viral hepatitis are completely preventable with sustained adoption of a healthy life-style. Thus, solid habits form the foundation stone to a strong liver” said Prof Ajay Duseja, Head, Dept of Hepatology, PGIMER, Chandigarh.

The liver is often called the body’s metabolic factory and industrial powerhouse, performing over 500 vital functions including detoxification, energy storage, and nutrient processing. “However, it is also a silent sufferer. Many liver conditions show no symptoms until they reach advanced stages. This is why World Liver Day, 2026 is focusing on building ‘Solid Habits’ today to prevent the crises of tomorrow,” said Dr Arka De, Associate Professor in the Dept of Hepatology, PGIMER, Chandigarh. He emphasised that there are six pillars for ensuring a “strong liver”

 Eat Well: Prioritize a diet rich in fibre, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Reduce intake of processed foods and hidden sugars, which are the primary drivers of fat accumulation in the liver and other metabolic health complications like diabetes and hypertension.

 Move More: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week. Even small increases in movement can significantly reduce liver fat and improve metabolic health. Non-exercise activity is also helpful. Yoga is also beneficial and in a recent study, we have demonstrated the utility of yoga in patients with MASLD, said Dr Sunil Taneja, Additional Professor, Dept of Hepatology, PGIMER, Chandigarh.

 No alcohol: Alcohol remains a leading cause of cirrhosis i.e. liver scarring. Reducing or eliminating alcohol intake is the most direct way to allow the liver to repair itself. No amount of alcohol is “safe” or “healthy” , emphasised Dr Arka De, Associate Professor, Dept of Hepatology, PGIMER, Chandigarh . Daily drinking and binge drinking are particularly harmful and should be particularly avoided.

 Screen Early: Because liver disease is often asymptomatic, regular check-ups are critical—especially for individuals with risk factors such as Type 2 diabetes, high BMI, or high cholesterol and for detecting asymptomatic HBV and HCV infections.

 Vaccination : The Hepatitis B vaccination has been part of the national vaccination schedule for almost two decades. Raising awareness is key to ensure universal coverage with Hepatitis B vaccine. Vaccines are now also available for Hepatitis A and Hepatitis E viruses which are important causes of jaundice and acute liver failure in India.  

 Holistic healthy lifestyle : Say NO to smoking and unsafe practices like unprotected sexual intercourse and intravenous drug use. Adequate sleep is also important for a healthy liver and indeed a healthy life, said *Prof Ajay Duseja.

In observance of World Liver Day, 2026, the Department of Hepatology will be conducting a “ Liver Health Education and Screening Camp” for health care workers including faculty, resident doctors, nursing officers and technicians of PGIMER, Chandigarh for 1 month from 16th April till 14th May, said Prof Ajay Duseja.

Those wishing to get them screened will be tested for HBV and HCV infections and will undergo liver elastography for fat and fibrosis in the liver. The knowledge, attitude and practices of health care workers are fundamental for shaping the habits and health-related choices in the community. Moreover, viral hepatitis screening and ensuring adequate immunisation against Hepatitis B is also vital in health-care workers because of the risk of occupational exposure, said Dr Arka De.  

To conclude, the vast majority of liver disease is preventable. By turning simple lifestyle actions into solid habits, we can collectively reverse the trend of rising liver disease and build a healthier future for our community.

Chandigarh, April 18:

The Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to the welfare of every section of society, with special emphasis on the well-being of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers. Continuous and concrete efforts are being undertaken to address their concerns and strengthen their working conditions. This was stated by Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur.

On Saturday at Punjab Bhawan,  Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur, in the presence of Director, Social Security, Women and Child Development Department, Ms. Shena Aggarwal, and Deputy Director Ms. Sumandeep Kaur, interacted with Anganwadi Workers and Helpers. She said that Anganwadi Workers and Helpers are an integral part of the department and are playing a crucial role in delivering government schemes to children, women and families at the grassroots level. She assured that all genuine demands of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers would be considered sympathetically and resolved expeditiously.

During the meeting, the demands raised by the Anganwadi Workers and Helpers were heard attentively by Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur. She directed the concerned officials to ensure prompt and effective resolution of the issues being faced by them.

The Minister further stated that the demands requiring consideration at the government level will be placed before the newly constituted Sub-Committee and taken up for resolution on priority.

Dr. Baljit Kaur further highlighted that Anganwadi Workers and Helpers are playing a significant role in strengthening child health, nutrition and early childhood education, while also creating awareness among mothers. She added that their door-to-door outreach in both rural and urban areas is contributing significantly towards building a strong and healthy society.

The Minister reiterated that the Punjab Government remains committed to enhancing the dignity and welfare of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers, and appropriate decisions will continue to be taken in future, as required.