Chandigarh:

The day of 24th March 2026 in Chandigarh began on an energetic note with a walkathon organized to promote awareness on cardiovascular health. The walkathon commenced from Kairon Block, PGIMER Chandigarh, and concluded at Sukhna Lake, witnessing enthusiastic participation from healthcare professionals, students, and the public health , emphasizing the importance of physical activity in preventing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

Following the walkathon, the 11th International CME on Noncommunicable Diseases was organized by the World NCD Federation in collaboration with PGIMER Chandigarh and NINE. The CME focused on the theme “Tackling Cardiovascular Diseases: A Public Health Perspective,” bringing together leading experts to deliberate on emerging challenges and innovative strategies for prevention and control of CVDs.

The scientific program comprised four technical sessions addressing the evolving landscape of cardiovascular diseases in India.

The first technical session, titled “Changing Landscape of Cardiovascular Disease in India: From Surveillance and Risk Prediction to Workforce Solutions,” focused on emerging trends in cardiovascular health.Prof. Rajesh Vijayvergiya, PGIMER, Chandigarh, highlighted the current burden of CVDs in India with key statistics (2023–2025) and emphasized improved risk assessment, screening strategies, and addressing multi-level barriers to prevention through data-driven approaches.Prof. Manphool Singh, PGIMER, Chandigarh, discussed the limitations of traditional risk models and emphasized the role of advanced cardiovascular imaging, prognostic modelling, and artificial intelligence in improving risk prediction and clinical decision-making.Dr. Kavita Narang, NINE, PGIMER, Chandigarh, highlighted gaps in the healthcare workforce and emphasized the critical role of nurses across all levels of care, along with strategies of task shifting and task sharing and their implementation challenges.

The second technical session, titled “Emerging and Persistent Challenges in Cardiovascular Health: From Novel Risk Factors to Health Systems and Life-Course Care,” focused on both traditional and emerging determinants of cardiovascular diseases.Prof. Pankaj Malhotra, PGIMER, Chandigarh, highlighted the role of Clonal Haematopoiesis of Indeterminate Potential (CHIP) as a novel risk factor for coronary artery disease, emphasizing its association with ageing and insights from studies on somatic mutations.Prof. Sreenivas Reddy, PGIMER, Chandigarh, emphasized the importance of robust STEMI registries, sharing experiences from Kerala and Himachal Pradesh, and comparing Indian data with Western studies to improve cardiovascular care systems.Dr. Pooja Sikka, PGIMER, Chandigarh, stressed the importance of early diagnosis and timely management of cardiovascular conditions in women, highlighting comprehensive care across preconception, antenatal, and postnatal stages.Prof. Sanjeev Asotra, IGMC, Shimla, highlighted the persistent burden of rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease, discussing advancements such as streptococcal vaccines and key challenges in prevention and treatment.

The inaugural session was graced by the Chief Guest, Dr. R.K. Ratho, Dean Academics, PGIMER, along with Prof. Rajesh Vijayvergiya, and Dr. Rakesh Sharma. Prof. JS Thakur delivered the welcome address and highlighted key findings from the Chandigarh NCD Registry.Prof. Rakesh Kapoor, Professor and Unit Head, Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, emphasized the expanding global presence of the World NCD Federation, which now has a membership base of nearly 20,000, including institutional and individual members across countries. He also highlighted the growing participation in accredited CME programs, reflecting increasing engagement in capacity-building initiatives.Dr. R.K. Ratho underscored the unpredictable and silent nature of cardiovascular diseases, noting that they can affect even young individuals without warning. He emphasized that while awareness around tobacco and alcohol has improved, greater attention is needed on physical inactivity and unhealthy diets as key modifiable risk factors.

The third technical session, titled “Transforming Cardiovascular Care: New Risks, Precision Rehabilitation, and Advances in Heart Failure,” focused on emerging dimensions of cardiovascular risk and innovations in patient care.Prof. Sandeep Grover, PGIMER, Chandigarh, spoke on “The New Face of Cardiovascular Risk: Substance Use, Comorbidities, and Disparities,” highlighting the evolving risk profile and the impact of behavioural and social determinants on cardiovascular health.Dr. Chinmay, PGIMER, Chandigarh, presented on “Bridging Evidence to Outcomes: Precision Cardiac Rehabilitation: Beyond the Hospital and Expanding Access via Hybrid and Home-Based Models,” emphasizing the need to extend cardiac rehabilitation services beyond hospital settings through innovative and accessible models of care.Prof. Ajay Behl, PGIMER, Chandigarh, delivered a talk on “From Molecules to Mindsets: Multidimensional Perspectives on Heart Failure,” highlighting the complex interplay of biological, clinical, and behavioural factors in the management of heart failure.

The fourth technical session featured a panel discussion on “Prevention and Control of CVDs: Key Strategies and Emerging Areas,” supported by the Healthy Oil Consortium (SHIFT) and moderated by Prof. J.S. Thakur, Professor, School of Public Health, PGIMER. The panel brought together experts from academia and public health programs, including Dr. Chinmay, Dr. O.P. Saini (Haryana), Dr. Pankaj Arora, Dr AK Sood and Dr. Avula Laxmaiah.The discussion focused on emerging priorities such as the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in real-time diagnostics and risk stratification, dietary interventions for CVD prevention, and state-level responses to the rising burden of early-onset cardiovascular diseases. Panellists also shared insights on the implementation of STEMI programs, state-specific prevention strategies, elimination of trans-fat consumption, and the role of digital health records in strengthening research and evidence-based policymaking.

The CME also included poster presentations and a public forum where experts interacted with participants, addressing queries related to prevention and control of cardiovascular diseases. The forum emphasized lifestyle modification, early diagnosis, and the need for community-level interventions.

The final session featured a Public and Patient Forum on Prevention and Control of CVDs, which provided an interactive platform for participants to engage directly with experts. The session included distinguished experts such as Prof. Rajesh Vijayvergiya, Prof. JS Thakur, Prof. Rakesh Kapoor, Prof. Sanjay K. Bhadada, and Prof. Dheeraj Khurana, who addressed queries from the audience and emphasized the importance of awareness, early detection, lifestyle modification, and patient-centered approaches in the prevention and control of cardiovascular diseases.

The event concluded with a valedictory session and general body meeting of the World NCD Federation. Participants appreciated the efforts of the organizers in bringing together diverse stakeholders to address one of the most pressing public health challenges.The CME reinforced the need for coordinated action, innovative solutions, and sustained commitment to reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases in India.

Ropar:

Indian Institute of Technology Ropar (IIT Ropar), in collaboration with Think India, organised a Tiranga Yatra on campus to observe Balidan Diwas and pay solemn tribute to the supreme sacrifice of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Thapar, and Shivaram Rajguru.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students across departments, who came together in large numbers to carry a 300-metre-long tri-colour through the campus premises. The procession moved with a spirit of unity, pride, and deep reverence, reflecting the strong sense of patriotism and national consciousness among the student community of IIT Ropar.

The Tiranga Yatra served as a reminder of the ideals and sacrifices that shaped modern India. Students marched with the tricolour held high, paying homage to the courage and conviction of the three revolutionaries who laid down their lives for the nation’s freedom at a young age. The atmosphere on campus was one of quiet reflection combined with collective pride, as participants observed a moment of respect before commencing the march.

IIT Ropar has consistently encouraged its students to engage with national values and social responsibilities alongside their academic pursuits. The observance of Balidan Diwas through the Tiranga Yatra is a testament to the institute’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are not only technically proficient but also deeply aware of their national heritage and civic duties.

Chandigarh:

Aam Aadmi Party National Media In-charge Anurag Dhanda launched a sharp attack on Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda, branding him as “BJP’s Puppet” (Gudda). He stated that the people of Haryana vividly remember the 2016 and 2022 Rajya Sabha elections, where BJP-backed independent candidates reached the Rajya Sabha despite Congress having sufficient numbers. History has repeated itself once again. Furthermore, the BJP has now rewarded its “sleeper cell,” Bhupinder Hooda, with a ₹16.50 lakh waiver. This clearly indicates a behind-the-scenes political deal between the BJP and Congress, as has happened many times before.

Anurag Dhanda remarked that in Haryana politics, the BJP and Congress put on a show of opposition before the public, but in reality, both parties work to provide each other with political advantages. The Rajya Sabha elections are the biggest example of this, where independent candidates consistently winning despite Congress’s numerical strength has exposed Hooda’s true intentions.

Criticizing the waiver of ₹16.50 lakh in penal rent for Hooda’s government bungalow by CM Nayab Singh Saini, Dhanda alleged that it was Hooda who handed the victory to BJP in the Rajya Sabha elections. He took a sarcastic jab, saying that the BJP has rewarded its “sleeper cell” for ensuring cross-voting in their favor. He added that as long as Hooda remains the face of the opposition in Haryana, the BJP government will continue to stay in power.

Taking a direct shot at the Leader of Opposition, Dhanda said that the Haryana Congress leadership has become a puppet dancing to the BJP’s tunes. He alleged that many Congress MLAs vote exactly where the BJP wants them to. This is why results contrary to the public mandate consistently emerge. He stated that the sooner the people realize Bhupinder Hooda is merely a puppet of the BJP, the better it will be for Haryana.

Dhanda further noted that Bhupinder Hooda is facing several serious legal cases and lives in fear of legal action. Consequently, he appears compelled to bow before the BJP government. He mentioned that while the people of Haryana are suffering, the Congress, despite being the main opposition party, has not been seen struggling on the streets for any major issues for a long time.

Anurag Dhanda emphasized that the people of Haryana must understand that voting for Congress is equivalent to strengthening the BJP. Both parties are running the state’s politics for their own benefit while public issues are being sidelined. He stated that in such an environment, the Aam Aadmi Party has emerged as a strong and honest alternative in Haryana. AAP is raising the voice of the people without any compromise and is fighting firmly against corruption and political deal-making.

Anurag Dhanda expressed confidence that in the coming times, the people of Haryana will completely reject this internal politics of the BJP and Congress and will push forward a clean, honest, and pro-people political era in the state.

Chandigarh, March 22 – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that over the past 11 years, under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, the government has been continuously moving forward in the direction of eliminating terrorism and Naxalism from the roots. Incidents like Dantewada serve as a reminder that the fight is still ongoing, but our brave soldiers remain ever ready to face every challenge. Haryana is a land of bravehearts, and its youth are deeply committed to serving the nation.

The Chief Minister was addressing a Shaheedi Diwas programme organised in Gurugram by the Home Developers Association in honour of CRPF personnel martyred in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh. On this occasion, the Chief Minister announced that a statue of Shaheed Bhagat Singh will be installed at Leisure Valley Park. He also paid floral tribute to Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev.

On this occasion, Haryana Minister for Sainik and Ardh Sainik Welfare, Industries, Forest and Environment Rao Narbir Singh, MLA, Sh. Mukesh Sharma, Sh. Tejpal Tanwar and Mayor Rajrani Malhotra were also present.

The Chief Minister presented a cheque of Rs. 38.25 lakh to DIG, CRPF, Sh. Param Shivam for the welfare of CRPF personnel. This amount, collected by the Gurugram Home Developers, will be used for the welfare of the families of martyred soldiers. The Chief Minister was welcomed by the Association President, Sh. Narendra Yadav on his arrival at the programme.

Paying tribute to the soldiers martyred in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh, Chief Minister, Sh.Nayab Singh Saini said that a true patriot sacrifices everything for the nation. He assured that the state government stands firmly with the families of martyrs.

Call to youth to draw inspiration from martyrs

The Chief Minister said that the mantra of “Nation First” is guiding the country today. Under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, India has strengthened not only its border security but also its internal security over the past 11 years. Several schemes are being run by the Central and State Government for the welfare of the security forces and soldiers.

He said that this programme is dedicated to those ‘Veeranganay’ who have lost the biggest support of their lives but are still moving forward with courage. The sacrifice of martyrs teaches us that the highest purpose of life is service to the nation.

The Chief Minister emphasised that national security is not the sole responsibility of the armed forces but a collective duty of 140 crore Indians. He urged everyone to work with honesty and dedication in their respective fields and to place national interest above all, calling it the true tribute to the martyrs.

Describing Haryana as the land of bravehearts, he said that every household in the state reflects a spirit of patriotism, and every tenth soldier in the country’s armed forces belongs to Haryana.

State government committed to the welfare of martyrs’ families

Chief Minister, Sh, Nayab Singh Saini said that the government has formed the Sainik and Ardh Sainik Welfare Department in the state for the welfare of ex-servicemen and personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces.

He said that over the past 11 years, the present government has provided government jobs on compassionate grounds to the dependents of martyrs, with 418 such appointments made so far. The ex-gratia amount for soldiers of the armed forces and Central Armed Police Forces martyred in war, and IED blasts has been increased from Rs. 50 lakh to Rs. 1 crore. Financial assistance of Rs. 10,000 per month is being provided to World War II veterans and their widows. 

For Military personnel and Central Armed Police Forces soldiers injured during war, terrorism or other incidents, grants based on disability have been fixed at Rs. 35 lakh, Rs. 25 lakh and Rs. 15 lakh respectively. At the end of the programme, Gurugram MLA, Sh. Mukesh Sharma expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister and other guests.

Former ADGP, Sh. Anil Rao, BJP District President, Sarvepriya Tyagi, Deputy Commissioner, Sh. Ajay Kumar, Commissioner of Police, Sh. Vikas Arora, Municipal Commissioner, Sh. Pradeep Dahiya and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

Chandigarh, March 22 — Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday said that the state is playing a pivotal role in translating the national vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ into reality. He said the vision articulated by Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi reflects the aspirations of 140 crore citizens, and the Haryana Government is working consistently to implement it on the ground.

Addressing the Viksit Badshahpur Maharally and House allotment programme in village Kakrola (Badshahpur Assembly constituency, Gurugram), the Chief Minister said that Badshahpur has emerged as a strong example of this development journey, where promises have been effectively converted into concrete outcomes.

The event was presided over by Industries and Commerce Minister,  Rao Narbir Singh and organised in coordination with the Housing for All Department. On the occasion, the Chief Minister handed over keys of newly allotted houses to 2,709 beneficiaries, marking a significant step towards ensuring housing for all.

Badshahpur’s Transformation Reflects Government’s Commitment

Highlighting the region’s progress, the Chief Minister said that areas once deprived of basic amenities have today transformed into symbols of development. He emphasised that the government has not limited itself to announcements, but has ensured their effective implementation on the ground.

He informed that over the past 11 years, a total of 81 Chief Minister announcements were made for Badshahpur, out of which 60 have been completed, while 8 are in progress. Development projects worth Rs. 15,166 crore have been implemented in the area during this period, compared to just Rs. 967 crore spent during the previous government’s tenure. This, he said, reflects the present government’s clear vision and strong commitment to development.

Focus on Inclusive Development and Welfare in Third Term

The Chief Minister reiterated that in its third term, the Haryana Government remains firmly committed to holistic development and safeguarding the interests of every section of society. Referring to the allotment of houses during the auspicious occasion of Navratras, he described it as not just a government programme, but a symbol of the government’s dedication to public welfare.

He said that the spirit of Navratras, representing strength, energy, and prosperity, reinforces the government’s resolve to provide dignified housing to every needy family. The focus, he added, is not merely on launching schemes but on ensuring their time-bound implementation with tangible impact.

Referring to the Budget 2026–27, the Chief Minister announced that under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural), 23,154 new houses will be constructed. Additionally, under the Mukhyamantri Shehri Awas Yojana, 15,251 plots of 30 square yards will be allotted to eligible families across 16 cities, helping thousands realise their dream of owning a home.

Key Announcements for Badshahpur’s Development

The Chief Minister made several important announcements for the comprehensive and sustainable development of the Badshahpur Assembly constituency including that the Farrukhnagar–Gurugram road will be upgraded to a four-lane road at a cost of around Rs. 365 crore, including the construction of the Chandu bypass, a modern community centre will be constructed in village Budhera at a cost of approximately Rs. 65 lakh.

The Chief Minister further announced that the roads in New Gurugram sectors will be widened up to 24 metres, wherever feasible, a water treatment plant will be set up in village Tikli under the Mahagram Yojana, benefiting nearby villages with improved drinking water and sewerage facilities, sewerage infrastructure work worth Rs. 88 crore in New Gurugram sectors will be expedited, a cremation ground will be developed in sectors 90 to 95 of New Gurugram, subject to land availability, fire stations will be established in Gurugram, Manesar, and Farrukhnagar based on land availability and maintenance of 13 roads (28.17 km) by the Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board and 30 roads (84.86 km) by the Public Works Department will be undertaken.

The Chief Minister further announced that a special repair of 11 roads (21.3 km) will be carried out at a cost of Rs. 41.57 crore, rural pathways leading to agricultural fields will also be paved and an additional Rs. 5 crore has been allocated to further accelerate development works in the constituency.

Gurugram to Drive Haryana’s Industrial Growth: Rao Narbir Singh

Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh said that Haryana, traditionally an agrarian state, is rapidly moving towards becoming a leader in industrial transformation by 2047, with the National Capital Region, especially Gurugram and Manesar, playing a crucial role.

He said that progressive policies and an investor-friendly environment have enabled the state to achieve new milestones in industry, trade, and employment generation. In Badshahpur, development works worth around Rs. 236 crore have been initiated since 2024 by the Municipal Corporation Gurugram, covering roads, sewerage, drainage, and other basic infrastructure.

He further noted that reforms in industrial policy, coupled with the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies, will reduce procedural delays, enhance transparency, and simplify processes for entrepreneurs and traders.

Triple Engine Governance Accelerating Development

Rao Narbir Singh also highlighted that the synergy between the Centre, State, and local bodies, referred to as the triple engine government, has significantly accelerated development in the region. He said that infrastructure expansion, environmental conservation, and citizen-centric services are being prioritised.

He informed that a ‘Namo Van’ project is being developed over 200 acres in villages Khoh, Kasan, and Sehrawan in the Aravalli region at a cost of around Rs. 26 crore, which will boost green cover, biodiversity, tourism, and employment opportunities.

Additionally, a provision of Rs. 100 crore has been made in the budget for maintenance of parks and green belts in urban areas to ensure a cleaner and more sustainable environment.

The event also featured vibrant cultural performances showcasing patriotism and Haryana’s rich traditions, adding energy and enthusiasm to the gathering.

Sohna MLA, Sh. Tejpal Tanwar, Gurugram MLA, Sh. Mukesh Sharma, Housing for All Department officers including Commissioner and Secretary Mohammed Shayin, Director General. Sh. J. Ganesan, GMDA CEO, Sh. P.C. Meena, former MP, Sh. Sukhbir Singh Jaunapuria, former MLA, Sh. Satya Prakash Jrawata, and other dignitaries also remained present on this occasion. 

Unique Enthusiasm Marks the Event

The Viksit Badshahpur Maharally witnessed remarkable public enthusiasm, with many rural participants arriving at the venue riding camels and horses in traditional style, adding a vibrant cultural flavour to the event.

Chandigarh, March 22- Haryana Public Works and Public Health Engineering Minister, Sh Sh. Ranbir Gangwa said that the government is working extensively to make the state’s road network strong, safe, and modern. Special focus is being given to the construction of new roads, strengthening of existing roads, and upgrading infrastructure to ensure better connectivity in every region of the state. He said that the government’s aim is to provide better and smooth transportation facilities to every citizen, thereby accelerating development.

In line with this, the Minister on Sunday conducted a surprise inspection of the ongoing road construction work from Kharkadi to Khoha in Hisar district. During the inspection, he closely examined the quality of construction material at the site and gave necessary directions to the concerned officers and executing agencies.

The Minister clearly said that any kind of negligence or use of substandard material in development works will not be tolerated at any level. He directed the officers to ensure that only high-quality materials, as per prescribed standards, are used in construction works so that the strength, safety, and long-term durability of roads can be ensured.
He said that roads are the backbone of development of any state, and a strong road network not only facilitates smooth movement but also promotes trade, industry, and other economic activities.Therefore, the government is working in this direction with full seriousness and commitment.

The Minister also directed the officers to ensure regular monitoring of all projects and to complete the works within the stipulated time frame. He warned that if any irregularity, negligence, or compromise in quality is found at any level, strict action will be taken against the concerned officer and agencies.

Chandigarh, March 22 – Haryana Social Justice and Empowerment Minister, Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi listened to the problems of the general public at his residence in Narwana on Sunday and directed the concerned officers to ensure immediate resolution. On this occasion, many residents from different areas came to meet the Minister with their issues. The Minister said that public service is true service, and it is the responsibility of the administration to resolve the problems of the people.

He said that the state government is committed to providing good governance to the public. He directed the officers to treat the resolution of people’s problems without any negligence.

The Minister said that the Haryana Government is committed to the upliftment of every section of society. Ensuring that the benefits of schemes meant especially for the weak, deprived and backward sections reach the last person is the priority of the government, and this is being effectively implemented.

He also appealed to the general public to stay informed about government schemes and take maximum benefit from them.

Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi also inaugurated a blood donation camp organised at a local palace. Congratulating the donors, he said that there is no greater donation than blood donation. Therefore, everyone should take part in this noble act of blood donation in their life.

Chandigarh, March 22- Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday paid floral tributes to the late Smt. Prem Kaur Kalyan, mother of Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker, Sh. Harvinder Kalyan, at a remembrance and tribute ceremony held at Kalyan Farm near Madhuban.

The Chief Minister said that a mother is a presence that can never be replaced, describing her as an entire world in herself who gives everything without being asked. He said that the life of Late Smt. Prem Kaur Kalyan was marked by love, sacrifice and deep dedication and self-discipline, and emphasised that one should move forward in life by following the path shown by her.

He said that she instilled strong values and moral upbringing in her family, adding that every mother dreams of seeing her son scale new heights.

The Chief Minister said that Sh. Harvinder Kalyan has carried forward the values imparted by his mother, and it is a mother’s sacrifice and dedication that lead to the progress of the entire family.

The Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to grant a place to the departed soul at his holy feet and to give strength to the bereaved family to bear this grief.