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Chandigarh

‘Sham-e-Ghazal concludes on a high-octave musical note

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CHANDIGARH:

The city ghazal buffs on Thursday evening had a date with a bonanza of music, melody and muse, at the historic Museum and Art Gallery auditorium, Sector 10, Chandigarh.

The occasion was ‘Sham-e-Ghazal’, an evening of ghazals, organised by
the North Zone Culture Centre (NZCC) Ministry of Culture Government of India, Patiala, in association with the Chandigarh Citizens Foundation, Chandigarh.
The mega ghazal concert brought artistes from Mumbai and Rajasthan under one umbrella to present a bouquet of ghazals, poetry and music.

The evening soaked in divine music turned nostalgic as acclaimed ghazal singer Waqar Khan, from Mumbai, and his team took the centre stage and created an ambient backdrop for a perfect evening with his nuanced rendition of popular ghazals, such as “Dil Hi Dukhane Ke Liye…” “Hazaar Khwahishein” ,“Jab Tum Sajda…” “Chupke Chupke Raat Din…”, “Aaj Jaane Ki Zid Na Karo…”, “Baat Niklegi To Door Tak Jayegi…” and so on. The maestro kept the audience mesmerised for hours with his craft and creativity, a sublime blend of words and wisdom, music and muse. The packed auditorium was transformed into a haven of lyrical elegance, where timeless compositions came alive with soulful notes, one after the other, rendered by him. The spellbound audience was seen swaying to the timeless melodic strains.

Up next ghazal icon of the evening was well-known Jaipur-based ghazal singer and composer Dr. Sunil Rahi, who added a distinct colour to the musical evening with his immaculate renderings, reflecting his poetic perfundity. A winner of the ‘Khazana Ghazal Talent Hunt-2023, Rahi began his soulful rendition with Dr. Tahir Faraz’s iconic composition “Kaash Aisa Koi Manzar Hota….” This was followed by Nida Fazli’s popular composition “Hosh Walon Ko Khabar Kya…” and “Har Taraf Har Jagah Beshumar Aadmi…” mirroring the typical Indian society and its outmoded mores, while “Apna Koi Mile To Gale Se Lagaiye…” filled the air with warmth, love and longing. His high octave rendition of the evening “Naghme Hain, Shikwe Hain…” made the day memorable. Dr Rahi went on to weave a spell with his mellifluous voice, presenting a perfect blend of sur, laya and jazbaat. From the soul-stirring renditions to the haunting melodies, each ghazal he rendered with heart-rending depth and impeccable diction earned him kudos. His nuanced adaaygi, classical finesse and vocal virtuosity struck an instant chord with one and all.

“Ghazal singing has been the warp-n-woof of the Indian musical legacy since time immemorial that refines not only our mind and soul but also connects us to the divine. A big hand to the artistes for turning the evening an immersive experience for the audience through their soulful renditions. Gratitude to the music-loving people of Chandigarh for turning up in great numbers to be a part of the one-day musical extravaganza” said Dr Ashwin M Dalvi, NZCC Director on the occasion.

Chandigarh, Haryana

Hooda Demands Immediate Commencement of Paddy Procurement

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Rohtak: Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda on Sunday demanded the immediate commencement of paddy procurement. He said while the arrival of paddy and Bajra is in full swing at the mandis, the failure to start government procurement is forcing farmers to sell their crops at rates up to Rs 400 per quintal lower than expected. “Farmers are being deprived not only of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) but also of basic amenities in the mandis. The government has not made proper arrangements for storing the crop, no weighing scales, and no provisions made for lifting or handling the produce. To make matters worse, the government has once again imposed limits, forcing farmers to endure long waits,” he said in a statement.

Hooda addressed the public today in the villages of Nandal, Chiri, Katwara, Khidwali, Ghuskani, Jindran, and Titauli in his constituency. Upon his arrival, people accorded him a rousing welcome and pledged their full support for the upcoming struggle against the BJP. Hooda expressed his gratitude to everyone and affirmed that this struggle would certainly yield results.

Speaking on the occasion, Hooda noted that the BJP had come to power promising farmers a rate of ₹3,100 per quintal for paddy. Yet today, farmers’ paddy is being sold in the mandis at rates even lower than the MSP, as the government has neither initiated procurement nor honored its election pledge.

He asserted that the BJP ascended to power by making false promises and stealing votes. “This is precisely why the government has completely lost the public’s confidence. Today, every section of society in the state is disillusioned with this government and is taking to the streets to fight for their rights,” he stated.

“Farmers are agitating for MSP, the youth for employment, women for safety, employees for the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), contract workers for job security, and athletes for dignity and respect. However, the BJP, blinded by the arrogance of power, is ignoring them all,” he added.

Chandigarh

PGIMER Director, Prof Vivek Lal Announces Institutionalization of Regular Resident-Welfare Interactions at PGIMER

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Chandigarh:

PGIMER is set to institutionalize regular dialogue with its residents, with Director PGIMER Prof. Vivek Lal calling for structured and periodic interactions to ensure that concerns related to workload, stress, workplace well-being and other issues are identified and addressed in a timely manner.

The announcement came during an open and candid interaction between Prof. Lal and around 200 residents at LT-1, PGIMER, as part of an Orientation and Well-being Programme. The Director called upon Heads of Departments and faculty guides to hold regular interactions with residents at a fixed periodicity, making communication and early resolution of concerns an integral part of the institutional support system.

“Resident well-being is integral to patient care. We must create an environment where our young doctors feel heard, supported and able to thrive,” said Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, Chandigarh.

Director PGIMER further said, “I would like such open interactions to become a regular feature at PGIMER. HODs and faculty guides should also have structured interactions with residents at a fixed periodicity. Regular communication will help us understand concerns at an early stage and ensure that issues are addressed through appropriate institutional mechanisms.”

The programme provided residents with a direct platform to raise concerns, share experiences and offer suggestions before the Director, faculty and administration. Discussions focused on the transition into residency, stress and burnout, seeking timely help, peer support and strengthening institutional mechanisms for resident welfare.

Sharing anecdotes from his own residency, Prof. Lal spoke about the expectations, challenges and opportunities that accompany this formative phase of a doctor’s career. He encouraged residents to communicate openly and seek support whenever required.

“Residency is an important and formative phase of a doctor’s life. Along with academic and clinical excellence, our residents need a strong support system and an environment where they can openly share their concerns,” said Director PGIMER.

The extended question-and-answer session saw residents engage directly with the Director, faculty and administration on a range of issues. The emphasis was on creating channels of communication through which concerns can be raised early rather than waiting for them to escalate.

Prof. Lal appreciated the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) for facilitating the dialogue and bringing forward constructive suggestions on resident welfare. He assured the residents that the administration would continue to examine appropriate measures to strengthen institutional support.

Prof. Sanjay Jain, Dean (Academics), PGIMER, stressed that the institution’s responsibility extends beyond academic and clinical training to creating an environment that supports residents’ overall growth and well-being.

“Our residents are immensely talented and hardworking. The institution’s responsibility is not only to train them but also to nurture and facilitate their growth in a healthy and supportive environment,” Prof. Jain said.

Prof. Shubh Mohan Singh, Department of Psychiatry, addressed the challenges associated with the transition into residency and the multifactorial nature of stress. He discussed practical approaches to managing stress, maintaining psychological well-being and developing healthy coping mechanisms.

Dr. Nidhi Chauhan, Department of Psychiatry, highlighted the importance of recognising early signs of distress and seeking timely support. She also spoke about simple and sustainable lifestyle measures that can help residents maintain their physical and mental well-being, particularly those living away from their families.

Dr. Vishnu Jinja, President, ARD, presented the residents’ perspective and highlighted the need for accessible peer support and timely institutional interventions.

“With increasing workload and stress associated with residency, resident welfare measures need to be strengthened to safeguard the health and well-being of the resident fraternity,” he said.

The ARD President also emphasised the importance of effective implementation of the weekly off and 24-hour rest following night duty, wherever applicable, noting that adequate rest helps reduce fatigue and burnout and contributes to patient safety and quality healthcare delivery.

The programme concluded with a clear emphasis on dialogue, accessibility and timely intervention, with PGIMER reaffirming its commitment to strengthening communication between residents, faculty and the administration.

Chandigarh, Haryana

CM Flags Off ‘Drug-Free Haryana Faridabad Namo Marathon-2026’ at Surajkund

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Chandigarh, September 27- Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday flagged off the ‘Drug-Free Haryana Faridabad Namo Marathon-2026’ from the historic Surajkund, with more than 1.35 lakh people participating in the mega event and raising a collective voice against drugs.

Addressing the participants, the Chief Minister said, “A resounding voice against drugs has risen from the land of Faridabad through the Namo Marathon today.” He said that the steps taken forward in the marathon were not merely a run on the roads, but were carrying forward Haryana’s collective consciousness and resolve against drugs.

More than 1.35 lakh people registered for the grand marathon organised in Faridabad, and almost all the registered participants reached the venue to take part in the event. The massive participation transformed Surajkund into a magnificent reflection of the collective resolve for a drug-free society. Since early morning, the enthusiasm of youth, women, senior citizens, sportspersons, students and people from different sections of society was clearly visible at the venue.

The event went beyond a marathon and emerged as a broad public message of de-addiction, fitness, healthy lifestyle, youth power, social unity and nation-building. A large number of young people participated in the marathon with great enthusiasm, conveying the message of staying away from drugs and channelising their energy in a positive direction. The notable participation of women and senior citizens further underlined that the fight against drugs is not the resolve of any one section, but a shared commitment of the entire society.

*Different Distances, One Destination—Drug-Free Haryana*

Participants took part in different categories of the marathon covering 21 kilometres, 10 kilometres and 5 kilometres. The distance was different, the pace varied and the participants belonged to different age groups, but the destination was the same for everyone—Drug-Free Haryana.

The Chief Minister showered flower petals on the participants and encouraged them. He said that Haryana’s identity is defined by hard work, medals and valour. The youth of Haryana are known not for drugs, but for their hard work, talent and dedication towards their goals. He called upon the youth to firmly say ‘No’ to drugs.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that drugs not only weaken the body, but also snatch away dreams, affect families and hollow out society. He called upon the youth to channelise their energy and talent not into drugs, but into sports, education, skills, employment, innovation and nation-building.

*Surajkund Echoes with Chants of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’*

During the marathon, the Surajkund complex was imbued with a strong spirit of patriotism and social resolve. The entire atmosphere echoed with chants of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’. The countless steps moving forward together conveyed the message of a healthy society, drug-free youth and a strong nation.

The Chief Minister said that the day’s run was not merely a race to move forward on the road, but a run to advance social awareness against drugs. He extended his greetings to every runner, sportsperson, student, daughter and volunteer participating in the event.

*Chief Minister Administers Pledge for a Drug-Free Society*

During the programme, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini administered a pledge to the large number of participants present, urging them to stay away from drugs and play their role in building a drug-free society. The participants pledged that they would themselves stay away from drugs and also motivate their family members, friends and other people in society to stay away from drugs.

The collective pledge transformed the Namo Marathon from merely a sporting event into a major campaign for social change and public awareness.

The Chief Minister said that the fight against drugs is not the responsibility of the government or the police alone. It is a collective fight involving every household, every school and every village. He urged parents and teachers to maintain open and regular communication with children.

*Call to Transform Youth Energy into the Power of Nation-Building*

The Chief Minister said that youth is the greatest strength of any nation. Therefore, it is essential to protect youth power from the grip of drugs and channelise their energy towards nation-building. He called upon young people to take up sports, adopt a healthy lifestyle and work hard to achieve their goals.

He said that the youth of Haryana have always brought glory to the State and the country on the sporting field. If the State’s youth power remains away from drugs and channels its energy into positive activities, Haryana will achieve new heights of development.

*Message of Fitness and Healthy Lifestyle Also Delivered*

The Faridabad Namo Marathon delivered a strong message of fitness and healthy lifestyle along with the message of de-addiction. The participation of people from different age groups demonstrated that age is no barrier to living a healthy life.

The enthusiasm of youth, participation of women and active involvement of senior citizens emerged as special features of the event. Through the marathon, people conveyed the message of adopting regular exercise, physical activity and a positive lifestyle.

*De-Addiction Message Linked with Seva Sankalp Abhiyan*

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the inspiration for service and resolve comes from Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi. To mark the completion of 25 years of Prime Minister’s public service, the ‘Seva Sankalp Abhiyan’ is being organised from September 17 to October 17. As part of this campaign, the message of the ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan’ is being taken to the people. The Faridabad Namo Marathon is a strong link in this chain of service, resolve and social awareness.

He said that the message of de-addiction is being taken to every district and village of the State through ‘Haryana Uday’. If any family requires assistance related to drug addiction, it should not hesitate to seek help. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of courage.

*Participation of Over 1.35 Lakh People Creates a New Chapter of Collective Resolve*

The registration of more than 1.35 lakh people for the Faridabad Namo Marathon, with almost all registered participants reaching the venue, became a testimony to the enthusiasm and widespread public participation in the event.

The coming together of such a large number of people with a common objective was the most significant feature of the marathon. Every participant moved forward carrying three clear messages: distance from drugs, proximity to health and participation in nation-building.

The event brought sports, fitness, social awareness and public participation together on one platform and helped take the message of de-addiction to a wider section of society.

*Faridabad Namo Marathon Emerges as an Event with Notable Public Participation at the National Level*

The Chief Minister said that the manner in which every section of society participated in the Faridabad Namo Marathon was special in itself. More than 1.35 lakh registrations, near-complete participation, a large presence of youth, and enthusiastic participation by women and senior citizens have made the event notable for its wide public participation.

He said that the marathon is not merely a one-day event, but the message emerging from it will continue to inspire society in the times to come to stay away from drugs, adopt a healthy lifestyle and contribute to nation-building.

*Resolve to Move from a Drug-Free Haryana towards a Developed India*

The Chief Minister said that the resolve for a Drug-Free Haryana is not limited merely to giving up drugs. Its broader objective is to make the youth healthy, educated, capable, self-reliant and responsible citizens. When the youth of the State remain healthy and channelise their energy into constructive activities, it will strengthen the goal of a Developed India.

He said that protecting youth power from drugs and connecting it with sports, education, skills, employment and nation-building is a priority responsibility of both the government and society.

Calling for a collective resolve, the Chief Minister said, “We will neither consume drugs ourselves nor allow anyone else to do so. We will channel the energy of our youth not into drugs, but into nation-building. A drug-free Haryana is our resolve, a healthy Haryana is our identity, and a developed India is our goal.”

The Chief Minister said that the real success of the event would be when the voice for de-addiction raised from Faridabad reaches every district, every village and every household of Haryana. ‘Nasha nahi, ab sapnon ka ujala hoga—Hamara Haryana, Nashamukt Haryana hoga’, he said.

*Prashant Chaudhary Wins Men’s 21.1-Km Event; Vikram Singh Finishes First Runner-Up*

Participants delivered impressive performances in various events of the ‘Drug-Free Haryana Faridabad Namo Marathon-2026’. In the 21.1-kilometre men’s category Prashant Chaudhary emerged as the winner, Vikram Singh secured the first runner-up position, while Anuj Meena finished as the second runner-up.

In the 21.1-kilometre women’s category, Sonika emerged as the winner, while Manav Rana secured the first runner-up position and Bhumika finished as the second runner-up.

In the 10-kilometre men’s category, Rohit Kumar emerged as the winner, Gaurav secured the first runner-up position and Nishant Karhana finished as the second runner-up. Similarly, in the 10-kilometre women’s category, Neeru Rani secured the first position, Sonia Upadhyay finished as the first runner-up and Reema Patel secured the second runner-up position.

Union Minister Sh. Krishan Pal Gurjar, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Sh. Vipul Goel, Minister of State for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Sh. Rajesh Nagar, Minister of State for Sports Sh.Gaurav Gautam, Ballabhgarh MLA Sh. Mool Chand Sharma, Badkhal MLA Sh. Dhanesh Adlakha, Faridabad NIT MLA Sh. Satish Kumar Phagna and Media Advisor to  Chief Minister Sh. Rajeev Jaitly, along with several other dignitaries, public representatives, sportspersons, youth, women, senior citizens and a large number of citizens, were present on the occasion.

Chandigarh

Over 1500 participate in cyclothon and walkathon at Sukhna to mark World Heart Day

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Chandigarh:

Chandigarh: As many as 1500 gathered at Sukhna Lake on Sunday to participate in a cyclothon and walkathon organised by Livasa Hospital, Mohali’s under the culmination of its 27-day fitness challenge-Livathon the hearts in action- to mark World Heart Day.
Mayor Saurabh Joshi was Chief Guest during the occasion and retired Indian Army officer Lieutenant General KJS Dhillon was Guest of Honour.

The event brought together people from different age groups, including students, young adults, families and senior citizens, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. The enthusiastic participation reflected the growing importance of fitness and preventive heart care as part of everyday life.
The 27-day fitness challenge encouraged participants to make physical activity a consistent part of their daily routine. At the culmination of the challenge, winners were recognised with medals and gift hampers, celebrating their commitment and participation throughout the initiative.
The event also featured Zumba and other fitness challenges, adding energy and enthusiasm to the event. The initiative also provided an opportunity for participants to interact with the healthcare team and learn more about maintaining a healthy lifestyle and protecting heart health.

The entire cardiac team from Livasa Hospital Mohali including Dr. H.K. Bali, chairman–cardiac sciences and Dr. Arvind Kaul, director–cardiology was actively present on the ground throughout the event, engaging with participants and spreading awareness about heart health and preventive care.
Anurag Yadav, CEO- Livasa Hospitals, said, “Livathon reflects our commitment to taking healthcare beyond hospital walls and into the community. The participation we have seen today, across age groups, is truly encouraging.”
Livasa Hospital Mohali, said, “


Bringing people together through a shared focus on fitness and heart health reinforces the importance of prevention, said Dr. Abhishek Garg, Facility Director.


Photos caption: People take part in cyclothon and walkathon organised by Livasa Hospital, Mohali to mark World Heart Day at Sukhna Lake on Sunday.

Chandigarh

PGIMER Pediatric Dentistry Team Secures Second Place in National Quiz

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Chandigarh: The Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry Unit, Oral Health Sciences Centre (OHSC), PGIMER, Chandigarh, secured second place in the National Pediatric Dentistry Quiz held during the 47th National Conference of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry (ISPPD) at The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel, New Delhi, from September 21–23, 2026.

The team comprising Dr.Pavithra Devi, Assistant Professor and final-year JuniorResidents Dr. Sanjana and Dr.ShifaliTrikha participated in the national-level quiz and secured second place, representing the institute among participating pediatric dentistry teams from across the country.

The Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry Unit, OHSC, PGIMER, has been actively involved in advancing comprehensive oral healthcare for children through specialized clinical care, academics and research. Its key areas of work include early childhood care preventive strategies, early interventions for developing malocclusions, management of pediatric dental trauma and specialized dental care for children with special healthcare needs and complex medical conditions. The Unit continues to strengthen evidence-based pediatric dental care and postgraduate training while expanding specialized services aimed at improving oral health outcomes and quality of life among children.

Uncategorized

Cardiovascular disease is world’s number one killer -responsible for 17.9 million deaths per year, and by 2030 this figure is expected to rise to 23 million: Dr Sidharth Garg

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Chandigarh:

Park Hospital Mohali launches advance Heart Valve Clinic for cardiac patients- Dr Sidharth Garg
Chandigarh: During a press conference here on Saturday, a team of doctors from Park Hospital, Mohali including Dr Sidharth Garg, director-CTVS, Dr Arjun Joshi, associate director-cardiac anesthesia, Dr Sankalp Sharma, associate director-interventional cardiology and Dr Sachin Bansal, senior consultant interventional cardiology highlighted the cardiac care management.
Dr Sidarth Garg said, “This year’s World Heart Day theme-‘Don’t Miss a Beat’- highlights the importance of recognizing warning signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease and seeking timely medical attention. The campaign focuses on helping people identify symptoms that may otherwise be overlooked.”

During the occasion, Park Hospital Mohali also announced the launch of a dedicated Heart Valve Clinic. The clinic will have free screen ECHO and INR testing, which will be available on every Saturday to diagnose valve patients at early stage and to offer the best treatment option. The Park Hospital has already performed 100 successful valve surgeries in the last 6 months.
Dr Sankalp Sharma said,” In India, heart ailments have replaced communicable diseases as the biggest killer. According to recent data, approximately 30 percent of the urban population and 15 percent of the population living in rural areas suffer from high blood pressure and heart attacks.

As the risk factors of heart ailments increase, so does the mortality rate, said Dr Sachin Bansal.
Dr Arjun Joshi said, “Patients with type 2 diabetes have 2 -3 times higher risk of heart problems as compared to the general population. There are currently 100 million people with diabetes in India and this number is expected to increase to 135 million by 2035.”
The current scenario demands an immediate emphasis be laid on preventive healthcare. This involves raising awareness about the disease and its risk factors. Conducting public education programs, workshops and counseling sessions for creating awareness at a mass level, said Dr Sidharth.

Chandigarh, Punjab

ASSOCHAM and PFRDA Organize  Workshop on NPS Benefits for MSMEs at an Exclusive Industry Meet

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Patiala, September 26, 2026: The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), in association with the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), hosted an  awareness seminar focusing on the National Pension System (NPS) and its diverse advantages for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Patiala.

The high-level Industry Meet commenced with an opening address by Sh. Rakesh Bhalla, Chairman, Chandigarh UT Development Council, ASSOCHAM. In his welcome speech, Mr. Bhalla warmly greeted all the participating industry stakeholders from Patiala, highlighting how robust social security frameworks strengthen regional businesses and the local economy. He extended a special welcome to Sh. Ajinkya Deshpande, Assistant Manager, PFRDA, and Sh. Begraj Saini from HDFC Pension Management Company Limited.

Following an introductory round by the participating local MSME owners, a detailed session on the architecture and core benefits of the NPS was conducted by Shri Abhishek Dhiman, Assistant Manager, PFRDA. The collaborative session thoroughly educated the gathered industry leaders on how business owners can leverage NPS for long-term financial security and retirement planning for their workforce.

The Industry Meet also detailed the practical onboarding process, outlining the seamless digital and physical registration journeys managed through Points of Presence (PoPs) to ensure a smooth transition for employers.

The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session where PFRDA officials and industry experts addressed compliance and operational queries from the attendees, followed by a formal Vote of Thanks extended by ASSOCHAM.

Chandigarh

Quality Assurance Authority-Haryana Introduces Comprehensive Inspection Framework to Strengthen Quality of Infrastructure Projects

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Chandigarh, September 25: The Quality Assurance Authority (QAA), Haryana, has been entrusted with the responsibility of establishing and enforcing quality norms and standards in engineering works, conducting technical audits and inspections, developing Standard Operating Methods and Procedures (SOMPs), accrediting and monitoring quality testing laboratories and third-party quality assurance agencies, recommending best engineering practices, promoting capacity building of engineers, and fostering the adoption of modern technologies and sustainable construction practices in public infrastructure.

Technical Audits and Inspections Across Departments

Sh. Sameer Pal Srow, IAS (Retd.), Chairman of the Authority, informed that since its establishment, the Authority has been actively carrying out technical audits and inspections of infrastructure projects across various departments. These inspections are undertaken both on the basis of complaints received from the public and wherever considered necessary to independently assess the quality of works being executed.

The Authority has already audited and inspected projects relating to roads, bridges, buildings, water supply, sewerage, irrigation, power transmission and other critical infrastructure sectors. Detailed technical audit reports have been submitted, highlighting deficiencies, good practices and recommendations for corrective action.

Coordination with National Organisations

As part of its long-term vision of developing a comprehensive quality ecosystem, the Authority has established close coordination with reputed national organisations, including the Quality Council of India (QCI), and premier testing laboratories such as the Shri Ram Institute for Industrial Research and other nationally recognised institutions.

The objective is to establish a state-of-the-art quality testing laboratory in Haryana equipped with modern facilities for testing construction materials and infrastructure components in accordance with national and international standards.

Collaboration with IIT Roorkee and Other Institutions

The Authority also proposes to collaborate with premier academic and research institutions, including IIT Roorkee and other leading centres of excellence specialising in highways, bridges, buildings, irrigation, sewerage, water supply, power transmission and power distribution.

These collaborations are aimed at adopting best engineering practices, strengthening technical expertise, incorporating modern construction technologies and continuously improving quality standards in public infrastructure.

Mandatory Stage-Wise Inspections

Sh. Srow further informed that, in another major initiative aimed at strengthening quality assurance at the field level, the Government has approved a comprehensive inspection framework for infrastructure projects being executed across Haryana. The new framework seeks to institutionalise regular inspections by senior engineering officers during the execution stage itself so that deficiencies can be identified and rectified at an early stage rather than after project completion.

Under the new inspection mechanism approved by the Authority, mandatory inspections will be carried out at different stages of construction depending on the cost of the project. Projects costing above ₹50 crore will be inspected by the Engineer-in-Chief (EIC) at approximately 50 per cent and 90 per cent stages of physical progress, that is, twice during execution. Projects costing ₹25 crore and above will be inspected by the Chief Engineer (CE) at approximately 20 per cent, 40 per cent, 60 per cent and 80 per cent stages of physical progress, that is, four times. Similarly, projects costing ₹10 crore and above will be inspected by the Superintending Engineer (SE) at approximately 15 per cent, 30 per cent, 45 per cent, 60 per cent, 75 per cent and 90 per cent stages of physical progress, that is, six times.

Site Order Book for Accountability

To ensure proper documentation and accountability, every project site shall maintain a Site Order Book, which will remain available at the site office for recording observations, technical directions and compliance instructions issued during inspections.

Officers of the rank of Executive Engineer and above shall specifically record the shortcomings observed at the site along with detailed remedial measures required for their rectification.

Inspection Reports Within Three Working Days

All inspecting officers shall submit their inspection reports to the Authority within three working days of inspection in the prescribed format. The reports shall also include project-wise assessment based on the technical quality parameters and marking system prescribed in the Standard Operating Methods and Procedures (SOMPs) issued by the Authority.

Quality Scores for Objective Monitoring

The quality scores will become an integral part of the inspection process and will facilitate objective monitoring of project quality. The system will provide a structured mechanism for assessing compliance with prescribed technical quality parameters during the execution of infrastructure projects.

Inspection Records to Promote Accountability

The inspection records maintained by various departments may also be considered by the competent authority while assessing the performance of the concerned officers. The mechanism is aimed at promoting greater accountability and encouraging proactive supervision of works.

The comprehensive framework, along with technical audits, quality testing, institutional collaborations and standardised inspection procedures, is intended to strengthen the overall quality assurance system for infrastructure projects in Haryana.

Chandigarh

PMDA CEO K.M. Pandurang inspects development works across Panchkula

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Chandigarh, September 26: The Panchkula Metropolitan Development Authority (PMDA) is working to improve the city’s infrastructure, greenery and civic facilities. As part of these efforts, PMDA CEO Sh. K.M. Pandurang inspected several areas of Panchkula on Saturday, including green belts, pedestrian paths and major junctions. He also gave directions to officials for their improvement and proper maintenance.

Sh. K.M. Pandurang visited the green belts in Sectors 1, 3, 21, 4, 2, 6 and 7. He reviewed their condition with the concerned officials and discussed ways to make them more useful and convenient for residents.

He directed officials to prepare a proper plan for the development of green belts across all sectors. He said that green belts should not only provide greenery but should also offer useful public spaces, including seating areas and other basic facilities wherever required.

He also stressed that existing trees and vegetation must be protected during development work. The design of the green belts should improve both their appearance and usefulness.

*Better facilities for pedestrians and cyclists*

The CEO directed officials to give special attention to pedestrians and cyclists while planning green belt development.

He asked officials to develop proper pedestrian paths and cycle tracks along green belts so that residents can walk and cycle safely and comfortably. He also directed them to consider the width of the paths, entry points and the overall development of the surrounding areas.

*Inspection of Mata Mansa Devi Singh Dwar and T-junctions*

The PMDA CEO also inspected the area around Mata Mansa Devi Singh Dwar and several T-junctions. He reviewed traffic movement, road safety, pedestrian movement and the beautification of these areas. Officials were directed to identify the improvements needed to make the junctions safer and better organised. He said that while planning these junctions, pedestrian safety and convenience should be given due importance along with smooth movement of vehicles.

*Regular testing to ensure quality of major projects*

The CEO also reviewed the progress of major ongoing development projects in Panchkula, including the Shooting Range in Sector 32, Atal Park and the Jaldhara project. He sought information from officials about the progress, construction quality and timelines of these projects. He directed that regular testing of construction materials and workmanship be carried out to ensure quality.

He made it clear that there should be no compromise on the quality of major projects. Officials were also directed to complete the projects within the stipulated time and give proper attention to their maintenance and beautification. The CEO also reviewed various roundabouts in Panchkula and the ongoing beautification and maintenance work.

During a meeting with representatives of the concerned companies, he directed them to maintain the roundabouts properly, with good greenery, landscaping and beautification. He said the work should help strengthen Panchkula’s identity as a well-organised and beautiful city, with standards aimed at going beyond those seen in Chandigarh. A meeting was also held with officials of the Horticulture Wing. Directions were issued to improve the city’s green belts, parks, plantation activities and overall landscaping.

*Development plans based on local needs*

Sh. K.M. Pandurang directed officials to study the local conditions of each sector and junction and prepare development plans accordingly. Officials were asked to identify works based on priority and prepare the required proposals. He stressed that quality, public use and long-term maintenance should be kept in mind while planning and carrying out development works.

Other PMDA officials, including ACEO Bharat Bhushan and Chief Engineer Rajiv Sharma, were also present on the occasion.