By Manoj Kumar

Chandigarh:

The recent protests in New Delhi over alleged examination paper leaks have marked a turning point in India’s youth-led activism. What began as demonstrations against irregularities in competitive examinations has evolved into a larger call for transparency, accountability and systemic reform. For Generation Z, the issue is no longer confined to one examination or one government. It has become a nationwide demand for fair opportunities and merit-based recruitment.

The momentum generated in the national capital is now being reflected in several states. In Jharkhand, students and job aspirants have been protesting against alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC). The agitation has drawn support from several student organisations, reflecting growing concern over the credibility of public recruitment.

Responding to the protests, the Jharkhand government has assured students that their concerns will be addressed. It has agreed to hold discussions with student representatives, promised appropriate action and initiated investigations into the alleged irregularities. Whether these assurances translate into lasting reforms will be closely watched by aspirants across the country.

The developments in Jharkhand are part of a much larger national challenge. Over the past several decades, allegations of paper leaks, recruitment scams, examination malpractices and irregular appointments have surfaced in numerous states. Teacher recruitment controversies, staff selection scams and allegations of corruption have periodically dominated headlines in states such as Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Rajasthan and others. In some high-profile cases, investigations have led to prosecutions and convictions of public officials, middlemen and political leaders, reinforcing concerns about the vulnerability of recruitment systems to corruption.

The consequences of these recurring controversies have extended well beyond individual examinations. Recruitments have been cancelled, appointment processes delayed and prolonged litigation has left lakhs of deserving candidates in uncertainty. Every cancelled examination represents years of preparation, financial sacrifice and emotional investment by aspirants and their families.

Perhaps the greatest damage has been to public confidence. In many parts of the country, a widespread public perception has developed that securing certain government jobs often depends not only on merit but also on influence, political connections or bribery. While many recruitments are conducted fairly and thousands of candidates secure jobs through honest competition, the persistence of repeated scandals has fuelled distrust in the system. It is this erosion of confidence that students are increasingly challenging through peaceful protests.

As the movement has gained national attention, it has also triggered a familiar political blame game. Leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have argued that paper leaks and recruitment irregularities were widespread under previous governments led by parties such as the Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Samajwadi Party (SP), Shiromani Akali Dal and others. Opposition parties, in turn, have accused the present governments at the Centre and in several states of failing to effectively curb paper leaks despite repeated assurances and legislative measures. The exchange of allegations has intensified political debate, but it has done little to address the immediate concerns of students awaiting fair recruitment.

Generation Z appears to be taking a different approach. Rather than focusing solely on which political party is responsible for past failures, many young protesters are demanding accountability from every government, regardless of ideology or party affiliation. Their message is straightforward: governments must be judged by their ability to ensure transparent examinations, secure recruitment systems and timely justice whenever irregularities occur.

The protests in Delhi have demonstrated that Generation Z is prepared to organise, mobilise and use democratic means to demand institutional reform. Social media has enabled students from different states to share experiences, mobilise support and transform isolated grievances into a nationwide conversation about the integrity of examinations and public recruitment.

The challenge now is to ensure that this demand remains consistent across political boundaries. Accountability cannot be selective. Whether allegations arise in Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Karnataka or any other state, citizens should expect the same standards—independent investigations, swift prosecution of those responsible, stronger digital safeguards, transparent recruitment procedures and time-bound appointments for deserving candidates.

The issue is ultimately larger than politics. It concerns the credibility of public institutions and the constitutional promise of equality of opportunity. When young people lose faith in the fairness of examinations, confidence in governance itself begins to erode.

Governments across India therefore face an important opportunity. Instead of allowing every paper leak to become another political controversy, they can work towards structural reforms that reduce human interference, strengthen examination security, ensure greater transparency and hold those responsible accountable without delay. Such measures would benefit not only today’s aspirants but also future generations.

The protests in Delhi have served as a wake-up call, while the demonstrations in Jharkhand suggest that the demand for accountability is spreading across states. Whether this becomes another passing political controversy or the beginning of meaningful institutional reform will depend less on speeches and more on action.

For Generation Z, the demand is simple: merit must prevail over malpractice, transparency over secrecy, and accountability over political blame. If governments—at both the Centre and in the states—respond with genuine reforms rather than mutual accusations, this movement could become one of the most significant youth-led campaigns for institutional integrity in recent decades.

By Manoj Kumar

Chandigarh: A series of controversial statements by political leaders, coupled with equally provocative responses from sections of protesters, has once again brought the quality of political discourse in India under scrutiny. From remarks targeting students protesting alleged examination paper leaks to communal and personal attacks, recent controversies have highlighted the growing use of inflammatory rhetoric in public life.
The recent Gen Z demonstrations at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar over alleged examination paper leaks have not only highlighted the frustrations of unemployed youth but also reignited concerns over the increasingly aggressive language shaping public debate. While the demonstrators sought to draw attention to examination paper leaks, recruitment irregularities and accountability, the use of abusive slogans by some participants drew criticism and sparked questions about whether public protests are increasingly reflecting the confrontational tone that has become common in political discourse.
The developments come against the backdrop of a series of provocative statements by political leaders across party lines in recent months. Several politicians have attracted criticism for remarks directed at political opponents, religious communities, student protesters and critics, often triggering sharp political exchanges and dominating headlines.
BJP MP Kangana Ranaut courted controversy after referring to protesting students as “Generation Gutter,” drawing criticism from student organisations and opposition parties, which accused her of belittling the concerns of young job aspirants. Senior BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri also came under fire for questioning whether those gathered at Jantar Mantar were genuine students. Bidhuri had earlier faced widespread condemnation over derogatory remarks directed at Muslim MP Danish Ali during a Lok Sabha debate, an incident that led to a show-cause notice from his own party.
Elsewhere, political rhetoric has remained equally sharp. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and several other political leaders have exchanged strong accusations over issues ranging from religion and illegal immigration to identity, governance and elections.
Another controversy emerged in Tamil Nadu after DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin faced legal action over remarks made during a public protest rally. Opposition parties termed the comments offensive and demanded action, while the DMK described the case as politically motivated.
The atmosphere has not been confined to elected representatives. At the Jantar Mantar demonstration, some protesters resorted to abusive slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders. The language was criticised by political parties across the spectrum, even as many continued to support the students’ right to peaceful protest and their demand for transparency in recruitment examinations.
Student groups argued that instead of addressing their demands for transparent recruitment and accountability in paper leak cases, some political leaders attempted to discredit the movement through personal attacks. Opposition leaders also criticised such remarks, saying elected representatives should engage with students’ concerns rather than use inflammatory language.
Political observers say the slogans and abusive language used by some protesters mirrored a broader trend in Indian politics, where increasingly aggressive rhetoric has become more common. They caution, however, that this should not be interpreted as a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Responsibility for inflammatory or abusive language rests with those who use it, whether they are political leaders or protesters.
Critics argue that political rhetoric across ideological lines has increasingly shifted towards personal attacks, allegations and emotionally charged language during election campaigns, legislative debates and public rallies. They warn that such exchanges risk lowering the standard of public discourse and deepening political polarisation.
Democracy guarantees both freedom of speech and the right to peaceful protest, but these rights are accompanied by responsibilities. Elected representatives, political parties and citizens alike have a duty to maintain civility, particularly when addressing issues that affect public trust and social harmony.
Restoring civility to public debate will require restraint not only from those in power but also from those seeking to challenge them. The language used in politics ultimately shapes the tone of democratic engagement far beyond election rallies, legislative assemblies and public protests.

Chandigarh:

The Chandigarh Heritage Conservation Committee (CHCC) has approved the proposal to establish a Digital Museum at the Le Corbusier Centre in Sector 19, paving the way for a major initiative to preserve and promote Chandigarh’s unique architectural and cultural heritage.

The project will be developed under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0 of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed museum has been prepared by the Department of Tourism.

The decision was taken during the 27th meeting of the Chandigarh Heritage Conservation Committee, chaired by Chandigarh Chief Secretary H. Rajesh Prasad. The meeting reviewed several proposals aimed at conserving the city’s architectural heritage and safeguarding the Outstanding Universal Value of Chandigarh’s UNESCO World Heritage sites.

During the meeting, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary, Tourism & Culture, presented the proposal and informed the Committee that the project aims to develop a world-class digital museum through minimum interventions while preserving the heritage character of the building. He highlighted the historical significance of the Le Corbusier Centre, the project’s tourism potential, the proposed layout, project cost, anticipated outcomes and revenue projections, and informed that the safeguards recommended by the Sub Heritage Committee have been incorporated into the proposal.

Following detailed deliberations and suggestions from the members of the Sub Heritage Committee and senior officials of the Chandigarh Administration, the Chair approved the proposal for establishing the Digital Museum at the Le Corbusier Centre, Sector 19.

The Committee next considered the revised zoning plan for Sectors 2, 3, 4 and 5, which fall within the buffer zone of the Capitol Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As these sectors are governed by special heritage planning norms, the proposal was examined by the Sub Heritage Committee before being placed before the CHCC.

Sirsa:

The Sirsa MP and Former Union Minister Kumari Selja pressed the Centre to initiate work on the proposed Yamuna-Ghaggar Link under the National River Interlinking Programme, saying the project could transform water management in Haryana by addressing recurring floods, irrigation shortages and drinking water scarcity.

Speaking during a high-level meeting convened by the Union Jal Shakti Ministry at Haryana Bhawan to review the “Jal Jeevan Mission” and the state’s water resources, Kumari Selja said Haryana was facing an alarming water crisis, with 14 districts struggling with inadequate drinking water supply while thousands of farmers continued to suffer due to insufficient canal irrigation.

She said the success of the Jal Jeevan Mission should be measured not by the number of pipelines laid but by whether every household receives a regular supply of clean and safe drinking water. She urged the Centre and the Haryana Government to jointly conduct a comprehensive assessment of drinking water sources, canal infrastructure, water treatment facilities, groundwater levels and water quality in water-stressed districts.

Highlighting what she described as Haryana’s “water paradox”, Selja said large quantities of monsoon water flow out of the state every year, often causing floods, while western and southern districts such as Sirsa, Fatehabad, Hisar and adjoining regions continue to face severe shortages of drinking and irrigation water.

To bridge this imbalance, she urged the Union Government to undertake a detailed technical and environmental feasibility study for linking the Yamuna with the Ghaggar River. She proposed that surplus monsoon water from the Yamuna be diverted through a technically viable link, canal or channel into the Ghaggar basin after preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR).

According to Kumari Selja, such a project would substantially reduce flood risks while making additional water available for irrigation, groundwater recharge and long-term water storage in western Haryana. She said the proposal could become a game-changer for farmers in Sirsa, Fatehabad and neighbouring districts that routinely face water shortages.

The Congress leader also demanded that Otu Lake in Sirsa be developed as a permanent “Water Bank” for western Haryana. She said the reservoir’s storage capacity had declined considerably due to decades of silt accumulation and called for scientific desilting, deep excavation and restoration of the lake.

Referring to land acquired for the lake project during 1964-65, Kumari Selja sought a fresh technical and revenue survey to ascertain the present status of the acquired land and place the findings in the public domain. She urged the Centre and the Haryana Government to jointly prepare a dedicated Otu Lake Revival and Water Storage Project so that surplus monsoon water flowing through the Ghaggar could be stored and utilised during dry months for irrigation and other essential needs.

She further demanded scientific rejuvenation of the Ghaggar River, including desilting, strengthening of embankments and enhancement of its carrying capacity from Panchkula and Ambala to Fatehabad and Sirsa. She said such measures would reduce flood damage while improving the river’s overall efficiency. Kumari Selja also stressed that Haryana must receive its full allocated share of Bhakra waters and called for a review of the existing canal distribution network to ensure optimum utilisation of available water. Wherever infrastructural deficiencies restrict water flow, she said, canal capacity should be expanded and the distribution system modernised.

Seeking the revival of the historic Sirsa Branch Canal linked to the Western Yamuna Canal system, Selja called for a comprehensive engineering survey followed by repairs, reconstruction and capacity enhancement of canals, minors and distributaries.

She underlined that merely releasing water into canals was not sufficient unless it reached the tail-end villages and farmers. Regular monitoring, prevention of water theft and leakages, and the use of modern technology, she said, were essential to ensure equitable distribution across the canal network.

Concluding her intervention, Kumari Selja said Haryana’s recurring floods, drinking water shortages and irrigation problems should no longer be treated as separate challenges but addressed through a single integrated water management policy. She said the Yamuna-Ghaggar Link, revival of Otu Lake, optimum utilisation of Bhakra waters, strengthening of the Ghaggar River, modernisation of the Sirsa Branch canal system and assured water supply till the tail-end should together form the foundation of Haryana’s long-term water security strategy.

“The floodwater that flows away every monsoon can become Haryana’s greatest water resource if managed scientifically. It can strengthen irrigation, improve drinking water availability, recharge groundwater and secure the future of coming generations,” Kumari Selja said while urging the Union Government to prepare a joint action plan with the Haryana Government.

Chandigarh, August 7

St Kabir Public School has taken its flagship inter-school quiz championship, Pantomathics, to the national stage with the successful conduct of its first-ever All India Edition, marking a major milestone in the competition’s six-year journey.
The championship attracted 1,229 two-member teams from 486 schools across India. Following nationwide online preliminary and zonal rounds, the top 16 teams, representing Punjab, Haryana, Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Karnataka, West Bengal and Jharkhand, competed in the Grand Finale held in Chandigarh on August 6–7 for the Pantomathics-2026 title and a prize pool of Rs 2 lakh.
Announcing the winners, Gurpreet Bakshi, Chief Administrator, St Kabir Public School, said the overwhelming response to the first national edition reflected the growing enthusiasm among students for knowledge-based competitions.
Cambridge Court High School,Jaipur won the Pantomathics-2026 title, the school was represented by Medhansh Vaddadi and Atharv Gauttam.   Satish Chandra Memorial School from Chakdaha(WB) finished as 1st runner up with Jayabrata Ghosh and Ainak Chowdhary representing the school.  

St Anthony’s Sr Sec School took the 2nd runner up spot and the school was represented by  Pavitra Jain and Saanvi Bhatia.  
Bakshi said, “What began as a regional initiative has today evolved into a truly national championship. Our vision is to make Pantomathics one of India’s most respected school quiz competitions, inspiring students to think critically, stay curious and learn beyond the classroom.”
Sapna Katoch, Principal, St Kabir Public School, said the championship reflected the school’s long-standing commitment to nurturing curiosity and holistic learning. “Pantomathics began with a simple vision—to nurture curiosity and celebrate the joy of learning. Seeing it grow into a national championship is a proud milestone for our school.

Beyond competition, it has become a platform where young minds from across India connect, exchange ideas and celebrate the spirit of knowledge together,” she said.
Organised in collaboration with Nexus Consulting, one of India’s leading knowledge and engagement companies, the championship featured questions spanning Current Affairs, Science, Technology, History, Geography, Sports, Literature, Entertainment, Arts and General Knowledge, testing not only factual knowledge but also analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
The Semi-Finals and Grand Finale were conducted by renowned quizmaster Venkatesh (Venky) Srinivasan, co-founder of Nexus Consulting, who has been associated with Pantomathics since its inception.

Widely regarded as one of India’s foremost quizmasters, Srinivasan has also worked on marquee knowledge properties such as Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) and Wheel of Fortune, besides conducting hundreds of educational, corporate and public quiz events across the country through Nexus Consulting, the championship’s knowledge partner since its inception.
Speaking on the occasion, Srinivasan said, “Pantomathics celebrates curiosity as much as knowledge. The quality of participation this year was exceptional, and the move to a national format has significantly elevated the championship. It is heartening to see talented students from across India compete on one platform. Pantomathics has all the ingredients to emerge as one of the country’s premier school quiz championships.”
Bakshi added that St Kabir Public School hosted the travel, accommodation and hospitality of all finalist teams, enabling students and teachers from different parts of the country to interact, exchange ideas and build lasting friendships. This year’s edition also featured a Teachers’ Invitational Written Quiz, reinforcing the school’s belief that learning is a lifelong pursuit.

Chandigarh: A society is not defined solely by its economic growth or technological advancement. It is equally measured by the compassion, empathy, and solidarity its people display during life’s most difficult moments. Among the traditions that have long reflected these values is the collective participation in funeral processions and last rites. Today, however, many believe this spirit of community is gradually fading.

Generation Z has earned appreciation for speaking out on issues of public importance. In recent months, young people have emerged as a powerful force for social and educational reforms. They have participated in protests against examination paper leaks, demanded accountability from authorities, and called for stricter action against those responsible for undermining the integrity of examinations. Such civic engagement reflects a strong sense of awareness and a willingness to fight for transparency and fairness in the education system.

Similarly, members of Generation Alpha are beginning to raise their voices on issues affecting education. In different parts of the country, including Fatehpur in Uttar Pradesh, Gaya in Bihar, and States such as Rajasthan and Maharashtra, students have participated in campaigns and demonstrations seeking better school infrastructure, adequate classrooms, improved sanitation and drinking water facilities, and the appointment of qualified Science teachers. Their growing civic consciousness deserves appreciation and encouragement.

Yet, while younger generations are increasingly active in demanding reforms, the same spirit of social responsibility should also extend beyond public protests. Strengthening social bonds, preserving cultural traditions, and standing with families in times of grief are equally important responsibilities. A generation that can lead movements for justice can also lead by example in preserving the values of compassion, service, and collective responsibility.

One noticeable change in recent years is the declining participation of young people in funeral processions and last rites. In earlier generations, it was customary for at least one member from almost every household to accompany the deceased on the final journey. Young people would help carry the bier, assist with funeral arrangements, gather firewood where required, and remain with the bereaved family throughout the cremation. These were not merely religious customs but expressions of humanity, empathy, and community service.

There was a time when funeral processions truly reflected community solidarity. In most villages, it was common for 60 to 70 people—and often more than a hundred—to accompany the deceased. Neighbours, relatives, friends, and even distant acquaintances would set aside their daily routines to stand beside a grieving family. Their presence conveyed a simple but powerful message: no one should face grief alone.

Few years ago, during a personal interaction, the Principal of DBS College, Dehradun, Prof. O.P. Kulshreshtha, shared similar concerns about what he perceived as a declining interest among young people in participating in funeral processions and last rites. He observed that while today’s youth enthusiastically attend birthday celebrations, social gatherings, and events commemorating various international days, their participation in the final rites of relatives, neighbours, and members of the community appears to be diminishing.

According to Prof. Kulshreshtha, this is more than a change in social habits—it reflects changing priorities. Celebrating life’s achievements is important, he said, but standing with families during moments of loss is equally significant. Funeral rites are not merely religious ceremonies; they are expressions of respect, empathy, and social responsibility. A balanced society is one in which the younger generation values both occasions of celebration and moments that call for compassion and solidarity.

Another concern that deserves attention is the apparent difference in community participation based on a family’s economic status. In many places, funeral processions of affluent families attract large gatherings, while those of economically weaker families often witness far fewer attendees. Although this may not be true everywhere, such instances raise an important question: should compassion ever depend upon wealth or social standing? Every individual deserves dignity in death, and every bereaved family deserves the support of its community.

One personal experience strengthened this concern. A few years ago, when one of our relatives, a government engineer, suffered paralysis, nearly a dozen family members came together and contributed around Rs 5 lakh within an hour towards his medical treatment. It was a remarkable example of family unity and collective responsibility. Everyone recognised that supporting a relative in distress was a shared obligation.

With that experience in mind, I expected the same spirit of togetherness when two relatives from economically weaker backgrounds passed away. I believed the family would once again come forward—not only by contributing towards the funeral expenses but also by standing beside the bereaved family during their most difficult hours.

Unfortunately, that expectation was not fulfilled. Although around 10 to 15 adult male members of our extended family live in the village, many of them employed in government service, only a limited number actively participated in the funeral and last rites. There appeared to be little collective effort to ensure that the ceremonies were conducted with the dignity and support the grieving families deserved. The experience was particularly painful because the deceased belonged to poor households that needed emotional and practical assistance the most.

This is not about blaming individuals. Rather, it prompts a broader reflection: Have we become more willing to support people when there is hope of recovery, but less willing to stand with families when there is nothing to gain except the fulfilment of a moral and social responsibility? Compassion should not end when life ends.

The final rites of a person are more than rituals; they represent society’s last expression of respect, gratitude, and solidarity. No family—especially one facing economic hardship—should feel isolated during such moments. If communities can unite to save a life, they should also unite to honour a life.

Modern lifestyles, migration, demanding careers, and changing social patterns have undoubtedly altered traditional ways of living. Yet these changes should not diminish the values that have long held families and communities together. A person’s final farewell should continue to be an occasion when society comes together to offer dignity, comfort, and support, irrespective of wealth or social status.

As India moves towards becoming a developed nation, material progress must be accompanied by moral and social progress. The younger generations have already demonstrated their ability to drive meaningful change in public life. They now have an equally important opportunity—to preserve the timeless values of empathy, community service, and collective responsibility. A truly progressive society is one that not only celebrates success together but also stands united in moments of grief, ensuring that no one walks their final journey alone.

Chandigarh: Reinforcing its position as the country’s foremost institution in deceased organ donation, ROTTO North, PGIMER Chandigarh scripted history by winning the prestigious National Award for Best Regional Organ & Tissue Transplant Organisation (ROTTO) for the third consecutive yea r, completing a remarkable Hat-trick and securing its fourth overall national title since the inception of the award in 2019.

The coveted honour was conferred during the 16th Indian Organ Donation Day celebrations held at the iconic Dr. B.R. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi, under the aegis of the National Organ & Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.

The award was presented by Anupriya Patel, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare , who congratulated the award-winning institutions for their outstanding contribution towards strengthening India’s organ donation movement and promoting ethical, transparent and equitable organ transplantation across the country.

The other esteemed dignitaries present on the occasion included Punya Salila Srivastava Secretary, MoHFW Government of India, Vijay Nehra, Addln. Secretary MoHFW Govt. of India, Dr. Loveneesh G. Krishna DGHS, MOHFW, Govt. of India and Dr. Anil Kumar, Director NOTTO.

The award was received on behalf of PGIMER by Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER Chandigarh, along with a senior delegation comprising Prof. (Dr.) Ashok Kumar, Medical Superintendent, Prof Dheeraj Khurana, Dept of Neurology, Prof. Hemant Bhagat, Dept of Anaesthesia and Intensive care, Dr. Vijay Tadia Nodal Officer ROTTO North and Ms. Saryu D. Madra, Consultant (IEC/Media), ROTTO North, PGIMER.

Expressing his happiness over the recognition, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, stated,” “Receiving this prestigious national recognition for the third consecutive year is a proud moment for the entire PGIMER family. It reflects our sustained commitment to advancing organ donation and transplantation through excellence in patient care, innovation, and teamwork. This honour belongs to our dedicated healthcare professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Above all, it is a tribute to the donor families whose extraordinary courage and generosity continue to transform loss into hope and save countless lives.”

Prof. Lal further underpinned,” PGIMER designated as Regional Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (ROTTO North), remains committed to strengthening the organ donation ecosystem across northern India through mentorship, capacity building, professional training, institutional collaboration, and the promotion of ethical best practices. Our mission extends beyond coordination—we strive to empower every State and transplant centre to build sustainable and efficient transplant programmes. This recognition reinforces our responsibility to continue leading with excellence, collaboration, and compassion for the benefit of patients awaiting the gift of life.”

The national event witnessed participation from senior officials of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Secretaries and senior officers from States and Union Territories, heads of leading healthcare institutions, transplant professionals, donor and recipient families, transplant coordinators, NGOs and civil society organizations working to advance organ donation across India.

The ceremony featured several deeply moving moments that underscored the true spirit of organ donation. Among those felicitated was the family of Major Singh, whose selfless decision to donate organs after his demise gave a new lease of life to multiple recipients. Equally poignant was the recognition accorded to the family of a young burn survivor who received life-changing skin donation, highlighting the transformative impact of tissue donation in restoring hope and healing to patients with severe burn injuries. These stories served as powerful reminders that every donation transcends grief to create new beginnings.

With this latest recognition, ROTTO North, PGIMER Chandigarh has now won the National Best ROTTO Award four times, including an unprecedented hat-trick of three successive victories for th years of 2023,2024 and 2025 and one earlier in 2019, firmly establishing itself as the national leader in organ donation coordination and promotion. The Institute has also previously received multiple national recognitions for excellence in deceased organ donation, reflecting its sustained commitment to advancing transplantation services and strengthening the organ donation ecosystem in the country.

Designated as the Regional Organ & Tissue Transplant Organisation (ROTTO North) in 2015, PGIMER has been entrusted with coordinating and promoting organ donation across Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and the Union Territories of Chandigarh, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Through capacity building, policy support, public awareness, professional training and seamless inter-state coordination, ROTTO North continues to set national benchmarks in deceased organ donation while inspiring thousands to pledge the gift of life.

Other honours under the ROTTO North network included SOTTO Rajasthan, which received the national award for Best IEC and Awareness Activities, and DMC Ludhiana, Punjab for exemplary performance in transplantation, reflecting the growing momentum of organ donation initiatives across northern India under the guidance and coordination of ROTTO North, PGIMER Chandigarh