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.

Chandigarh, September 26, 2026: Chandigarh BJP is gearing up to paint the city in colourful hues with a series of grand rangoli-making programmes from October 1 to October 11 under the ‘Sewa Ke Rang, Rashtra Ke Sang’ initiative, being organised as a tribute to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s service to the nation.
The announcement was made following a meeting held under the stewardship of Senior BJP leader Sanjay Tandon, in which Chandigarh BJP workers and leaders from the Zila, Mandal and State levels participated. Leaders and workers of the Mahila Morcha also took part in the meeting. Notably, 

Tandon is the convenor of the programme.
Sanjay Tandon said, “As part of the campaign, Zila and Mandal-level teams will create 51-foot diameter rangoli, while Chandigarh BJP at the State level will create a giant 105-foot diameter rangoli. The programmes will be organised at different locations across the city between October 1 and October 11.”
The meeting also discussed preparations for the programmes and participation of BJP workers at different organisational levels to ensure their successful execution.
The Mahila Morcha will also organise a special rangoli-making programme, with a 17-foot diameter rangoli, adding another colourful dimension to the ‘Sewa Ke Rang, Rashtra Ke Sang’ celebration.
The ‘Sewa Ke Rang, Rashtra Ke Sang’ initiative is being organised as part of the ‘Sewa Sankalp Abhiyan’ celebrations marking 25 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s public service, with rangoli serving as a creative expression of the spirit of service and celebration. The ‘Sewa Sankalp Abhiyan: Sewa Ke Rang, Rashtra Ke Sang’ is also an initiative to contribute towards making the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047 a reality.
The campaign commenced on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday on September 17 and will conclude with a month-long celebration of service and public participation.

Chandigarh, September 26 — Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that austerity, restraint and self-discipline are the greatest assets in human life. He said true victory does not lie in defeating someone else, but in conquering the anger, greed, ego and hatred within oneself.

The Chief Minister was the chief guest at the Sarv Dharam Sammelan organised in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, on the sacred occasion of the 532nd Prakash Parv of Baba Sri Chand Ji Maharaj, the elder son of First Patshah Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and Purnamashi.

Welcoming the saints and religious leaders attending the programme, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the forms of worship, ways of offering prayers, attire and languages of different religions may vary, but the ultimate goal is the same- to awaken love within human beings, overcome ego, serve those who are suffering and connect with the Almighty. He said the Sarv Dharam Sammelan conveys the living message of Punjab’s great culture, which brings hearts together and places humanity above all.

Shedding light on the life of Baba Sri Chand Ji Maharaj, the Chief Minister said that born in 1494, Baba Sri Chand Ji’s life was an extraordinary example of renunciation, austerity and spiritual practice. He said that during difficult times, the saints made an invaluable contribution by taking care of religious places and taking the messages of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji to the people.

The Chief Minister thanked revered Baba Sukhdev Singh Bedi Ji, a 16th-generation descendant of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the organiser of the programme, for connecting the sacred Prakash Parv with the Sarv Dharam Sammelan and bringing people from all sections of society together on one platform.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said Haryana and Punjab were not only geographically close but also shared a common civilisation, culture and heritage of saints. He said the sacred memories of the Guru tradition and Udasi saints remained alive at several places in Haryana, including Kurukshetra, Pehowa, Kaithal, Jind, Sirsa and Ambala. He added that on the soil of Punjab, he had always experienced a sense of belonging and brotherhood.

The Chief Minister expressed concern that drugs, violence, stress and growing distraction were weakening the youth. He urged young people to imbibe self-discipline from Baba Sri Chand Ji Maharaj, the spirit of service from Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and courage from the Guru tradition, and channel their energy towards education, sports, employment, entrepreneurship and nation-building.

Referring to the Gurbani message, “Pavan Guru, Paani Pita, Mata Dharat Mahat,” the Chief Minister emphasised the need to link religious programmes with cleanliness, water conservation and tree plantation. He said that planting a sapling, helping a person in need and helping a young person become free from drugs on the occasion of the Prakash Parv would be a true expression of devotion to Baba Sri Chand Ji Maharaj.

Chandigarh, September 26 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has extended his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the Indian men’s kabaddi team on winning the gold medal at the Asian Games 2026 being held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. He especially congratulated the eight players from Haryana who were part of the gold-winning team and said that their outstanding performance had made the country and Haryana proud across the world.

The Chief Minister said that the Indian players displayed remarkable strength, exceptional skills and unwavering team spirit in the thrilling final against Iran to secure the historic victory.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the outstanding performance of Haryana’s youth at the Asian Games was the result of the state’s effective and encouraging sports policy as well as the players’ relentless hard work. He said that the players, with their excellent sporting ability and discipline, had brought laurels to both the country and the state at the global level.

The Chief Minister wished all the players a bright future and reiterated that the state government remained fully committed to encouraging medal winners and providing them with excellent sports facilities and all possible support.

The Indian men’s kabaddi team secured the gold medal after defeating Iran in an exciting final at the Asian Games 2026. Haryana made a significant contribution to the victory, with eight talented players from the state being part of the Indian team.

Chandigarh, September 25: Thousands of Haryana Congress workers and leaders staged a massive protest today at the State Election Commission office. Police, present in large numbers, stopped the Congress members, who had arrived to gherao to the office, using barricades and force.

Water cannons were also deployed against them in a dangerous manner. Several Congress leaders and workers sustained injuries due to police high-handedness. Police detained a large number of party leaders and workers and took them to the police station. The protesters raised slogans to condemn the dictatorial attitude of the police and the government.
The protest was led by the party’s state in-charge Sanjay Dutt, former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda, and state Congress president Rao Narendra. Also present on the occasion were MP Deepender Singh Hooda, Jaiprakash JP, Varun Mulana, Satpal Brahmachari, and Karamveer Baudh, along with various MLAs, former MLAs, district presidents, office-bearers, and senior leaders.
Speaking on the occasion, Bhupinder Singh Hooda stated that public trust in the Election Commission’s functioning has eroded, with revelations about it surfacing one after another. “Following Rahul Gandhi’s statements, media reports have now made it clear that the BJP formed governments in several states, including Haryana, by stealing votes,” he stated.
“Media reports clearly indicate that Gyanesh Kumar treated the Election Commission as his personal fiefdom to aid the BJP. He completely disregarded the other two Election Commissioners as well. Under these circumstances, Gyanesh Kumar has no right to continue in his post, he must resign immediately,” he added.

Hooda noted that the Congress had raised several questions with the Election Commission following the Haryana election results but has received no response to date. “For instance, on the night of the 5th, the Commission announced a voter turnout of 61.19% for Haryana. However, the figure was raised to 65.65% the following day, and further increased to 67.9% on the 7th, just a day before the vote count. It is baffling how the vote count could rise so significantly overnight,” he said.
The Leader of the Opposition stated that Rahul Gandhi had also exposed irregularities in the voter lists, backed by evidence. “The extent of the manipulation was such that, in some places in Haryana, 501 votes were registered against a single house; elsewhere, 223 votes (or in some instances, 100 votes) were created using the photograph of the same woman. Furthermore, 22 votes were registered using the photograph of a Brazilian model,” he pointed out.

“These are merely a few examples; the actual scale of the manipulation involves hundreds of thousands of votes. Electoral irregularities occurred not only in the constituencies where the Congress lost but also in those where it won. Otherwise, Congress MLAs would have secured victories with much larger margins,” he noted.
Hooda remarked that the BJP did not merely steal votes in Haryana but effectively stole the entire government through such tactics. “This amounts to a subversion of the country’s democracy and Constitution. The Congress will raise its voice against this on every platform,” he said.

Chandigarh:

“Academic collaboration is strengthening radiology education and translating advances in imaging into better patient care,” Prof.Akshay Kumar Saxena, Head, Radiodiagnosis & Imaging, PGIMER,

The longstanding academic collaboration between three premier medical institutions—AIIMS New Delhi, Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), New Delhi, and PGIMER Chandigarh—will continue with the 5th AIIMS–MAMC–PGI Series: Course on Musculoskeletal and Breast Imaging, being hosted by PGIMER on September 26–27, 2026.

Addressing the media at a curtain-raiser programme today, Prof.Akshay Kumar Saxena, Professor & Head, Department of Radiodiagnosis& Imaging, PGIMER, said, “The AIIMS–MAMC–PGI teaching course is a unique academic tradition built on the shared commitment of three premier institutions to excellence in radiology education. This edition brings together contemporary knowledge, practical case-based learning and multidisciplinary perspectives in musculoskeletal and breast imaging. Our endeavour is to strengthen the academic foundation of young radiologists while also helping practicing clinicians incorporate newer developments into diagnostic decision-making and patient care.”

The AIIMS–MAMC–PGI Teaching Course Series was initiated in 1996 with the vision of creating a strong academic platform for knowledge exchange, postgraduate teaching and professional development in radiology. Earlier editions were organised in 2000, 2005, 2013 and 2020. The present fifth edition marks another milestone in this enduring academic association.

The two-day course will focus on musculoskeletal and breast imaging, two dynamic and clinically important areas of modern radiology. Rapid advances in imaging technology, image-guided interventions, artificial intelligence, radiomics and functional imaging have considerably expanded the role of radiology—from diagnosis to treatment planning, intervention and multidisciplinary patient management.

Detailing on the highpoints,Prof. Mahesh Parkash, Professor, Department of Radiodiagnosis& Imaging, PGIMER, said, “The strength of the AIIMS–MAMC–PGI series lies in its collaborative academic spirit and meaningful exchange of knowledge. This edition provides an opportunity for faculty, practicing radiologists and postgraduate residents to learn together, discuss challenging cases and engage with evolving concepts in musculoskeletal and breast imaging. Such platforms are essential for fostering continuous learning and ensuring that postgraduate training keeps pace with the rapidly changing landscape of modern radiology.”

The programme has been designed with contributions from faculty members of AIIMS, MAMC and PGIMER and will combine didactic lectures, multidisciplinary case-based discussions, film-reading sessions, a resident quiz and practical clinical insights. The sessions will address both established imaging principles and emerging technologies, with an emphasis on their application in routine clinical practice.

Highlighting advances in breast imaging, Prof.VeenuSingla, Professor, Department of Radiodiagnosis& Imaging, PGIMER, said, “Breast imaging is evolving rapidly with the integration of advanced imaging techniques, image-guided biopsy and artificial intelligence. AI-assisted technologies can support radiologists in analysing breast imaging, identifying areas requiring closer evaluation and improving the precision and efficiency of image-guided procedures. Modern biopsy techniques also enable more targeted tissue sampling with fewer needle insertions, making procedures more patient-friendly.”

Prof.VeenuSingla further said, “These technologies also have an important role in teaching and training residents by helping them understand imaging findings and build confidence in interpretation. However, AI should remain an aid to clinical expertise and not a replacement for the radiologist. Alongside technological advances, awareness of breast cancer warning signs and timely medical evaluation remain equally important, as early detection and appropriate diagnosis are central to effective patient care.”

The course is expected to bring together radiologists, postgraduate residents, faculty members and clinicians from across the country, providing a platform for academic interaction, professional exchange and collaborative learning.

With a special focus on postgraduate education, the programme will also offer practicing radiologists and clinicians an opportunity to update their knowledge of emerging imaging techniques and understand their practical clinical applications.

The continuation of the AIIMS–MAMC–PGI Teaching Course Series underscores the enduring value of academic collaboration among leading medical institutions and their shared commitment to excellence in medical education, continuing professional development and patient-centred care.

Chandigarh/24th, September

The 64th birthday of Sirsa MP, former Union minister, General Secretary of All India Congress Committee and CWC Member Kumari Selja was observed across Haryana on Thursday with enthusiasm and a renewed commitment to public service. Congress workers and supporters organised blood donation camps, havan-yajnas and various service activities in different districts. Fruits and sweets were distributed among elderly people, patients, needy persons and visually impaired children.

A large number of supporters from different parts of the state reached Kumari Selja’s residence at Dabda Chowk in Hisar. They presented flowers, bouquets and sweets and wished her a healthy and long life. Workers also cut a cake to mark the occasion. Congress leaders, office-bearers and workers organised programmes in New Delhi, Panchkula and other parts of the state.

Kumari Selja said her birthday was not merely an occasion for personal celebration but a day to reiterate her responsibilities and commitments towards the people. She said the biggest responsibility of a person in public life was to firmly raise the voice of every section of society and stand with those in need. She appealed to workers to continue working with dedication towards public service and the organisation.

Kumari Selja said she considered party workers her family and that the affection and sense of belonging had brought people from across the state to convey their wishes. She thanked workers, supporters and well-wishers for their affection on her birthday.

In Panchkula, MLA Chandramohan, former MLA Pradeep Chaudhary, former MLA Shamsher Singh Gogi, Sudha Bhardwaj, Shyam Sunder Batra, Narpal Singh Gurjar, Devender Singh, advocate Lal Bahadur Khowal and Arvind Sharma, among others, marked the occasion. A stream of birthday messages also continued on social media from the morning.

Birthday marked with havan and service activities in Sirsa

At the Congress Bhawan in Sirsa, a havan-yajna was organised for Selja’s long and healthy life. PCC delegate Rajesh Chadiwal said office-bearers of the party, members of the Legal Cell, Mahila Congress, District Youth Congress and NSUI participated in the rituals. Workers later cut a cake amid drum beats and distributed sweets. Fruits and sweets were also distributed at the leprosy ashram, Sanatan Dharam Temple and Bhai Kanhaiya Ashram.

MLA from Kalanwali Sheeshpal Keharwala, Virbhan Mehta, Gopiram Chadiwal, Surendra Bansal, Naveen Kedia, Raj Kumar Sharma, Ameer Chawla, Sandeep Nehra, Ratan Lal Gaidar, Ram Singh Solanki, Jagga Singh Brar, Randhir Singh, Krishna Phogat, Gurnam Singh Jhabar, Mandeep Singh Lakdawali, Durga Singh, Prof RC Limba, Naresh Darolia, Rajpal Bhambhu, Vijay Singh Ghotra, Pradeep Saini, Laduram Poonia and Satpal Mehta were among those present.

Khowal says Selja should serve Haryana as chief minister

Legal Department state chairman advocate Lal Bahadur Khowal said Kumari Selja had established a distinct identity through her public life, describing her as having an unblemished image, fearless personality and active approach. He said people of Haryana wanted to see her become chief minister of the state. He described her birthday as a day to reaffirm the commitment to social harmony, public service and the rights of weaker sections.

At the programme in Hisar, MLA Sheeshpal Keharwala, Chaudhary Jagannath, Advocate Lal Bahadur Khowal, Virbhan Mehta, Raj Kumar Sharma, Ashwini Sharma, Satendra Singh Adampur, Bhupendra Gangwa, Manoj Rathi, Mukesh Saini, Rajesh Chadiwal, advocate Chandra Harsh, Surendra Bansal, Krishna Phogat, Laduram Poonia and Sakshi Chaudhary, among a large number of supporters, were present.

Chandigarh, September 24:

Dr. Adarsh Swaika, Indian High Commissioner to Kenya hosted a dinner on Wednesday evening in honour of the Haryana Legislative Assembly delegation visiting Kenya to attend the Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference. The dinner was hosted at India House in Muthaiga, Kenya.

Speaker of the Haryana Legislative Assembly Harvinder Kalyan, Deputy Speaker Dr. Krishan Lal Middha, MLA Ghanshyam Dass Arora and other members of the delegation were present at the dinner. Several senior officials of the High Commission of India were also present on the occasion.

While welcoming the Haryana delegation, High Commissioner Adarsh Swaika said that it was a matter of great pleasure for him to host the dinner in honour of the delegation. During interaction a range of issues relating to parliamentary relations between India and Kenya, parliamentary systems, and the social and economic landscape of the two countries were discused.

Speaker Harvinder Kalyan thanked the High Commissioner and the officials of the High Commission for their gracious welcome, warm hospitality and meaningful interaction. He said that such exchanges provide an opportunity to understand the parliamentary systems and experiences of socio-economic development in different countries.

It may be mentioned that the CPA Conference was held in Cape Town, South Africa, following which the Haryana delegation undertook a study visit to Kenya. The delegation is currently in the final phase of its visit.

On World Alzheimer’s Day, the Department of Neurology, PGIMER, Chandigarh, called for greater public awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, stressing that early diagnosis has become increasingly important with the availability of newer disease-modifying treatments for Alzheimer’s disease in India.

At a press conference held today, senior faculty members Prof.Dheeraj Khurana, Dr. Sucharita Ray, Additional Professor and Dr. Karthik V.M, Associate Professor from Deptt. of Neurology and Prof. Indu Verma from Deptt. of Biochemistry highlighted the need for timely diagnosis, accurate identification of different causes of dementia, advanced diagnostic tools and stronger support systems for patients and caregivers.

Prof. Dheeraj Khurana highlighted that the treatment landscape for Alzheimer’s disease has changed significantly, making early recognition of symptoms more important than ever.

“With disease-modifying medicines now available for Alzheimer’s disease in India, early diagnosis has assumed greater importance. These treatments are most effective in the early, mild stages of the disease. Timely diagnosis allows us to assess treatment eligibility and also helps families plan care better and maintain the patient’s quality of life,” he said.

Prof. Khurana urged families not to dismiss persistent memory problems and changes in daily functioning as merely a normal consequence of ageing.

Dr. Sucharita Ray stressed that dementia is not a single disease and that identifying its underlying cause is essential for appropriate treatment.

“Dementia is a syndrome caused by several different diseases, and each patient needs to be evaluated carefully to identify the underlying cause. Early diagnosis can make a meaningful difference to treatment and care. At the same time, dementia is a family issue, not just a patient issue, and caregivers need our attention and support,” she said.

Highlighting the often-overlooked impact on caregivers, Dr. Ray said families caring for people with dementia frequently face substantial physical, emotional and financial stress.

“Caregivers carry a significant part of the dementia burden. Supporting the caregiver is therefore an essential part of supporting the patient,” she added.

A major development announced at the press conference was the Department’s plan to introduce a panel of body-fluid tests for Alzheimer’s disease.

Prof. Indu Verma said the advanced diagnostic facility would strengthen the Institute’s ability to identify Alzheimer’s disease more accurately and at an earlier stage. “The Department will shortly commence a panel of body-fluid tests for Alzheimer’s disease. These advanced investigations can facilitate more accurate and earlier identification of cases and may also help in monitoring treatment effects and assessing potential therapeutic interventions,” Prof. Verma said.

The move is expected to further strengthen the Department’s diagnostic capabilities in neurodegenerative diseases and support more precise evaluation of patients.

Drawing attention to the broader health challenges associated with dementia, Dr. Karthik emphasised that patients often have comorbid conditions, including depression, which need to be identified and addressed as part of comprehensive care.

“Dementia rarely affects the patient in isolation. Conditions such as depression can coexist with dementia and influence the overall course of care. At the same time, the impact is felt across the family, with caregivers often carrying a considerable burden,” he said.

The Department also announced that it is working on organisational changes to streamline dementia management pathways at PGIMER. A patient support programme is also being planned to provide patients and families with additional guidance and support.

Prof. Dheeraj Khurana said the initiatives are aimed at making dementia care more structured and patient-centred.

“Our focus is to streamline the dementia care pathway so that patients can move more efficiently from diagnosis to appropriate treatment and follow-up. We are also working towards a patient support programme that can provide families with greater guidance throughout this journey,” he said.

The Department of Neurology reiterated its commitment to improving dementia care through early diagnosis, newer treatment options, advanced investigations, multidisciplinary management and caregiver support.

On World Alzheimer’s Day, the Department appealed to the public to recognise persistent memory and cognitive changes early and seek medical advice rather than attributing them automatically to ageing.