Chandigarh, 16 November – Haryana’s Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Sh. Anil Vij said that the construction of the Shaheed Smarak, dedicated to the country’s First War of Independence of 1857, is in its final stages. He said that “We are making every effort to ensure that the memorial is ready before Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit on 25 November. If he gets the time, he may view it and inaugurate it.”

Sh. Vij was speaking to media persons after inspecting the Shaheed Smarak located on GT Road in Ambala Cantonment late this evening.

Anil Vij said that the memorial would be so captivating that visitors will find it hard to leave. “Using advanced technical and scientific systems, the light and laser show will be displayed in a full 360-degree view. On the walls created inside the gallery, figures of soldiers and horses will appear to walk. Across its 21 galleries, one will find extraordinary and remarkable displays worth seeing.”

Earlier, the minister inspected various sections of the memorial and received briefings from departmental officials and the construction agency team. He viewed the audio-visual presentation and watched a 360-degree video based on the 1857 uprising in the gallery. He also issued necessary directions to improve the display and instructed officials to complete the remaining construction work at the earliest. BJP leaders Pravesh Sharma, Ravi Buddhiraja, Balit Nagpal, Balkesh Vats, and other office-bearers were present on the occasion.

Chandigarh, November 16

Haryana’s Energy, Transport, and Labour Minister Sh. Anil Vij said that “I have always done politics of development. Whenever I contested elections, I never used religion, caste, or regionalism.” Addressing the newly appointed Chairman, Vice Chairman, nominated members of the Ambala Cantonment Market Committee, and municipal councillors, he said, “You must adopt the same goal—work for development in your respective areas. The responsibility you have been given is significant. You must resolve the issues faced by farmers.”

Sh. Vij was speaking at the oath-taking ceremony of newly appointed Ambala Cantonment Market Committee Chairman Balwinder Singh Shahpur and Vice Chairman Surender Bindra (Dabbu). He personally seated both on their official chairs and congratulated them. Sh.Vij said that discussions will be held with agents and others regarding the issues related to the vegetable market, and if everything goes well, the matter will be resolved this month.

Vij Thanks Chief Minister for Market Committee Appointments

On this occasion, Sh.Vij expressed heartfelt gratitude to the BJP government and Chief Minister Shri Nayab Singh Saini for appointing the Chairman, Vice Chairman, and 18 members to the Market Committee. He said both the Chairman and Vice Chairman are experienced and well aware of farmers’ issues. “Together, they will solve farmers’ problems. If they face any difficulty in resolving an issue, they should bring it to my notice so that I can ensure the solution.”

Former Chief Ministers Only Laid Foundation Stones; We Built the New Grain Market- Vij

Sh. Vij said that several former Chief Ministers laid foundation stones for the grain market, but no actual work was ever done. “With the strength you all gave me, the first project I undertook was establishing the new grain market outside the city, which today has every necessary facility.” He added that Ambala Cantonment grain market is located on the GT Road highway, equipped with modern amenities—including a rest house and canteen for farmers, as well as well-built offices for the Chairman and Vice Chairman.

Sh.Vij explained that the old market in Ambala Cantonment had numerous issues. There was no arrangement for storing grain; the produce often spilled outside the municipal office, got spoiled, or was damaged by animals. Farmers had to stay awake at night to guard their grain. Nearby shopkeepers and residents also faced great inconvenience. During wheat and paddy seasons, the movement of grain would block the entire market area.

The event was attended by SDM Vinesh Kumar, Market Committee Secretary Neeraj Bhardwaj, Municipal Council Chairperson Swarn Kaur, Vice Chairperson Lalta Prasad, BJP leaders Vikas Bahgal, Ravi Buddhiraja, Harsh Bindra, Pravesh Sharma, Jasbir Jassi, Sudarshan Singh Sehgal, Arhtiya Association President Ajay Garg, Sanjeev Soni, Ashish Aggarwal, Ravi Sehgal, Madan Lal Sharma, Narendra Rana, Rajiv Dimple, Bijender Chauhan, Kiran Pal Chauhan, Balit Nagpal, Balkesh Vats, S.R. Kalsi, Advocate A.K. Sehgal, Deepak Bhasin, Puneet Sarpal, B.S. Bindra, Mohit Kaushik, and many agents and distinguished citizens.

The Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, through its Department of Endocrinology and the CNE Cell, under the guidance of Prof. Sanjay Kumar Bhadada (HOD, Department of Endocrinology) and Dr. Navneet Dhaliwal (Joint Medical Superintendent), successfully conducted a comprehensive Diabetes Health Education Programme today to mark World Diabetes Day. The initiative was designed to empower Health Care workers by promoting awareness and enhancing essential self-care practices to manage the rising burden of diabetes.

The two-hour session, held at LT-1, featured a stellar line-up of leading endocrinologists, nursing educators, and specialists who delivered expert talks on critical aspects of diabetes management.

The educational sessions of the Diabetes Health Education Programme provided a comprehensive overview of holistic diabetes care, spanning from foundational understanding and prevention to advanced management of complications. Prof. Sanjay Kumar Bhadada initiated the core topics by focusing on “Understanding Diabetes: Myths vs Facts,” where he provided detailed explanations on the various types of diabetes, key risk factors, identification of early symptoms, and the dismantling of common misconceptions, setting a strong knowledge base for the healthcare workers. Following this essential foundation, the programme shifted its focus to complication prevention, with Dr. Linta Thomas (Senior Resident) delivering an important session on “Protecting the Heart, Kidneys, Eyes, and Nerves,” emphasizing strategies to mitigate the long-term systemic damage often associated with uncontrolled diabetes. Addressing demographic-specific concerns, Prof. Rama Walia presented “Diabetes in Women: Gestational and Beyond,” covering the unique challenges faced by women, particularly regarding gestational diabetes and its implications. The session then explored key diagnostic and monitoring tools, with Prof. Naresh Sachdeva clarifying the crucial “Role of lab investigations in Diabetes management,” explaining which tests are necessary and why.

A significant portion of the programme was dedicated to lifestyle interventions and acute management. BN Behera (Chief Dietician) shared expert insights into “Healthy Eating for Diabetes Prevention and Control,” outlining practical dietary modifications. This was complemented by Dr Sunil Mishra’s session on the necessity of “Physical Activity in Diabetes Management.” Multiple sessions focused specifically on insulin therapy: Dr. Soham Mukherjee provided a general overview of “Diabetes and Insulin,” followed by two practical, essential sessions—Sunil Kumar (Nurse Educator CNE Cell) demonstrating the correct “Insulin injection technique,” and Meenakshi Vyas (Nurse Educator CNE Cell) detailing proper “Insulin storage and transport.” Monitoring skills were reinforced by Dr. Rekha Rani Nar (Nurse Educator CNE Cell) presentation on “Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose: Why, When, and How,” providing clarity on using SMBG effectively. Addressing acute emergencies, Dr. Varun Singla covered “Hypoglycaemia: Prevention, diagnosis and Management.” Finally, special attention was given to lesser-discussed complications: Dr. Rimesh Pal spoke on “Diabetes and bone health,” and Dr. Ashu Rastogi and Dr. Benjamin collaborated on a detailed session on “Foot Care for People with Diabetes,” a vital aspect of preventing morbidity.

The programme concluded with an engaging Panel Discussion featuring Prof. Sanjay K Bhadada, (HOD Department of Endocrinology)  Prof. Rama Walia, (Associate professor) Dr. Sukhpal Kaur(Principal NINE),  Jaspal Kaur(Chief Nursing Officer PGIMER) and Prof. Rimesh Pal, who addressed advanced clinical queries and best practices for diabetes care raised by the participating health care workers.

PGIMER reaffirms its unwavering commitment to continuously training health care professionals through evidence-based education, thereby strengthening the health system’s capacity to manage and combat diabetes effectively.

Chandigarh:

On the occasion of the World Diabetes Day, The Department of Endocrinology, PGIMER in collaboration with ADITI  (Association of Diabetes(young) in Tricity) and RSSDI (Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India) organized a special awareness programme for the patients living with diabetes in the New OPD Block of PGI, Chandigarh.

Diabetes- A pandemic of unprecedent magnitude: Diabetes, now being identified as a pandemic According to the latest data of International Diabetes Federation (IDF) 1 in 10 people in the world is living with diabetes. In India alone there are  77 million people living with diabetes in 2025. This figure is projected to become 134 million by 2045.

Diabetes is a disorder of metabolism in which the human body is unable to regulate the blood glucose level in the body. The glucose which serves as the source of energy is regulated by Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. When body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot utilize it efficiently, the glucose level builds up in the blood. Persistent high glucose levels affect vital organs such as heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves. Diabetes is a result of combination of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors. The condition can be effectively managed with regular monitoring, timely and appropriate treatment and a healthy lifestyle.

World Diabetes Day: To remember and honor the contribution of Sir Frederick Banting, the co-discoverer of Insulin in the management of Diabetes, The World Health Organization observes November 14th every year as world Diabetes Day. The day is dedicated to raise awareness about the disease and to promote prevention, management and access to quality care for the patients suffering from Diabetes. The theme of this year’s Diabetes Day is- DIABETES AND WELL-BEING. 

The Department of Endocrinology conducts special awareness drive every year on this occasion. This year, under the leadership of Dr. Sanjay K. Bhadada, Professor & HoD, the Department of Endocrinology conducted an interactive session in the OPD where the doctors from the department discussed the various aspects related to diabetes with the patients in an open forum.

Dr Bhadada, in his opening address highlighted the importance of patient participation in management of this disease. Dr. Linta Thomas talked about the various types of Diabetes, the signs and symptoms and treatment modalities available. In her talk, she stressed upon adherence to timely and right treatment and underscored the need and importance of Insulin therapy. Dr Benjamin discussed the various complications of Diabetes and highlighted the importance of self-care in its management. Dr Sunil Mishra emphasized the role of a healthy lifestyle in slowing the disease progression and educated the audience regarding diabetic diet. Dr Prabhat Rijal told the patients about hypoglycemia, a potentially life-threatening complication in the patients undergoing treatment of Diabetes.

Diabetic foot ulcer is another frequent and serious complication in diabetes patients which is a result of combination of loss of sensation and poor wound healing commonly seen in the patients with long history of Diabetes with poor glycemic control. Dr Varun discussed the causes and consequences of foot ulcers in diabetics and underscored the importance of foot care. Dr Soham Mukherjee explained the measures to prevent injuries to foot and importance of regular self-inspection in preventing Diabetic foot ulcers. Nursing officer Mrs Sabpreet Kaur taught patients correct techniques for taking insulin injection and highlighted the importance of site rotation i.e. changing the injection sites in the patients who are regularly taking insulin injection.

The talk session was followed by interaction with patients where doctors took questions and resolved their doubts regarding the disease and its treatment. The participation of patients was positive and encouraging. Dr Sanjay K. Bhadada and the organizing team thanked the audience for their constructive participation in the event. The event was coordinated by Dr. Soham Mukherjee .

Chandigarh: The Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, through its Department of Endocrinology and the CNE Cell, under the guidance of Prof. Sanjay Kumar Bhadada (HOD, Department of Endocrinology) and Dr. Navneet Dhaliwal (Joint Medical Superintendent), successfully conducted a comprehensive Diabetes Health Education Programme today to mark World Diabetes Day. The initiative was designed to empower Health Care workers by promoting awareness and enhancing essential self-care practices to manage the rising burden of diabetes.

The two-hour session, held at LT-1, featured a stellar line-up of leading endocrinologists, nursing educators, and specialists who delivered expert talks on critical aspects of diabetes management.
The educational sessions of the Diabetes Health Education Programme provided a comprehensive overview of holistic diabetes care, spanning from foundational understanding and prevention to advanced management of complications. Prof. Sanjay Kumar Bhadada initiated the core topics by focusing on “Understanding Diabetes: Myths vs Facts,” where he provided detailed explanations on the various types of diabetes, key risk factors, identification of early symptoms, and the dismantling of common misconceptions, setting a strong knowledge base for the healthcare workers. Following this essential foundation, the programme shifted its focus to complication prevention, with Dr. Linta Thomas (Senior Resident) delivering an important session on “Protecting the Heart, Kidneys, Eyes, and Nerves,” emphasizing strategies to mitigate the long-term systemic damage often associated with uncontrolled diabetes. Addressing demographic-specific concerns, Prof. Rama Walia presented “Diabetes in Women: Gestational and Beyond,” covering the unique challenges faced by women, particularly regarding gestational diabetes and its implications. The session then explored key diagnostic and monitoring tools, with Prof. Naresh Sachdeva clarifying the crucial “Role of lab investigations in Diabetes management,” explaining which tests are necessary and why.

A significant portion of the programme was dedicated to lifestyle interventions and acute management. Mr. B.N. Behera (Chief Dietician) shared expert insights into “Healthy Eating for Diabetes Prevention and Control,” outlining practical dietary modifications. This was complemented by Dr. Sunil Mishra’s session on the necessity of “Physical Activity in Diabetes Management.” Multiple sessions focused specifically on insulin therapy: Dr. Soham Mukherjee provided a general overview of “Diabetes and Insulin,” followed by two practical, essential sessions—Mr. Sunil Kumar (Nurse Educator CNE Cell) demonstrating the correct “Insulin injection technique,” and Mrs. Meenakshi Vyas (Nurse Educator CNE Cell) detailing proper “Insulin storage and transport.” Monitoring skills were reinforced by Dr. Rekha Rani Nar (Nurse Educator CNE Cell) presentation on “Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose: Why, When, and How,” providing clarity on using SMBG effectively. Addressing acute emergencies, Dr. Varun Singla covered “Hypoglycaemia: Prevention, diagnosis and Management.” Finally, special attention was given to lesser-discussed complications: Dr. Rimesh Pal spoke on “Diabetes and bone health,” and Dr. Ashu Rastogi and Dr. Benjamin collaborated on a detailed session on “Foot Care for People with Diabetes,” a vital aspect of preventing morbidity.
The programme concluded with an engaging Panel Discussion featuring Prof. Sanjay K Bhadada, (HOD Department of Endocrinology) Prof. Rama Walia, (Associate professor) Dr. Sukhpal Kaur(Principal NINE), Mrs. Jaspal Kaur(Chief Nursing Officer PGIMER) and Prof. Rimesh Pal, who addressed advanced clinical queries and best practices for diabetes care raised by the participating health care workers.
PGIMER reaffirms its unwavering commitment to continuously training health care professionals through evidence-based education, thereby strengthening the health system’s capacity to manage and combat diabetes effectively.

HANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, November 15:

          Acting on specific intelligence amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a safe and secure state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Counter Intelligence (CI) Amritsar has successfully foiled a planned target killing by busting a Madhya Pradesh (MP)–based illegal weapons smuggling module with the arrest of one operative and recovered nine pistols from his possession, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Saturday.

          The arrested person has been identified as Arun Singh, a resident of village Naushehra Pannuan in Tarn Taran. The recovered pistols include seven .32 bore pistols and two .30 bore pistols along with magazines and five live cartridges.

          DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary investigation has revealed that the weapons were procured to execute a targeted killing arising from inter-gang rivalry in the region. Probe has also revealed that the accused was in contact with illegal weapon suppliers in Madhya Pradesh through social media platforms and was facilitating the flow of arms to criminals in Punjab to support unlawful activities, he said.

          Sharing operational details, he said that CI Amritsar had received a specific intelligence about the retrieval of a huge consignment of illegal weapons from Madhya Pradesh. Acting swiftly, police team of CI-Amritsar intercepted the suspect from near HP Petrol Pump situated on bypass road nearby village Ghanupur Kale and recovered the cache of illegal weapons from his possession, he said.

          The DGP said that further investigation is in progress to uncover the entire supply chain and identify additional operatives involved. More arrests and recoveries are likely in coming days, he added.

          In this regard, A case FIR No. 68 dated 15-11-2025 has been registered under sections 25 and 25(1)(a) of the Arms Act and section 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Police Station State Special Operation Cell, Amritsar.

Sri Anandpur Sahib/Chandigarh, 15 November: Punjab Government is undertaking extensively infrastructure development in Sri Anandpur Sahib as part of preparations for the historic 350th Martyrdom Centenary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Cabinet Minister S. Harbhajan Singh E.T.O reported that 317 kilometres of roads connecting Sri Anandpur Sahib are being upgraded at a cost of ₹100 crore, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted movement for the large number of devotees expected to arrive.

Along with this, the city’s internal network of 127 kilometres of roads is also being constructed and repaired with an outlay of ₹49.32 crore.

Minister further informed that work on the crucial Sri Anandpur Sahib–Garhshankar road, worth ₹13 crore, is progressing swiftly as part of the ongoing infrastructure enhancement.

He said that Sri Anandpur Sahib is witnessing significant technological enhancements aimed at improving public convenience and city aesthetics. A total of 750 new energy-efficient lighting poles have been installed across the city, ensuring brighter illumination with reduced electricity consumption. These developments are paving the way to give Sri Anandpur Sahib a distinguished identity as a “White City.”

 In addition, warning traffic signals and road-safety systems have been put in place to ensure smooth traffic management during the peak days of the celebrations.

To accommodate the massive influx of pilgrims expected during the Shaheedi events, Punjab Government has established a fully equipped Tent City, now ready with all essential facilities.

 Minister announced that online booking for the Tent City will be completely free, enabling devotees to plan their pilgrimage without any financial burden. To honour this sacred occasion, four grand Nagar Kirtans will be organised, led by esteemed saints and spiritual leaders. The state government and district administration are jointly working to provide every possible facility to the visiting sangat.

He said that special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha scheduled for 24 November will be dedicated to the revered Ninth Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

Reviewing the ongoing arrangements, Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh E.T.O confirmed that all works are progressing on time and will be completed well before the event. Punjab Government aims to ensure that every devotee visiting Guru Nagri during these historic celebrations experiences seamless services, complete security, and a profound spiritual atmosphere.

Chandigarh, November 15:

In a major push to transform classroom learning and to integrate global best practices into education system, Punjab Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains flagged off 3rd batch of 72 primary cadre teachers for 15-day training at University of Turku, Finland. The cohort includes Block Primary Education Officers (BPEOs), Centre Head Teachers (CHTs), Head Teachers (HTs) and ETT teachers, who will immerse themselves in Finland’s world-renowned pedagogical approaches.

While addressing the media here at MGSIPA after flagging off the teachers’ batch, S. Harjot Singh Bains said that this batch will take the total to 216 teachers who have  imbibed Finland’s pedagogy excellence, showcasing Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government’s commitment to education transformation. He also announced the forthcoming fifth batch of 50 Headmasters who will undergo an intensive leadership training program at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Ahmedabad, from December 15th to 19th, 2025.

Elaborating about the one of the most extensive educator capacity-building initiatives in the country, the Education Minister informed that 234 Principals and Educational Administrators have been trained in advanced administrative and academic leadership in Singapore. 199 Head Masters have honed their strategic and managerial skills at IIM Ahmedabad. 144 Primary Teachers have completed an immersive training in Finland so far.

He said these teachers selected on merit are expected to act as “Master Trainers,” cascading their acquired knowledge and skills to their peers upon their return, thereby creating a multiplier effect throughout the state’s educational system.

S. Harjot Singh Bains stated, “This is not just a training program. It’s a mission to transform Punjab’s future.  By exposing our teachers to the finest educational ecosystems in the world, from Finland’s collaborative learning models to IIM Ahmedabad’s strategic leadership frameworks, we are ensuring that our students receive an education that is future-ready, holistic and at par with global standards. The ripple effect of these trained educators will be felt in every classroom across the state.”

Administrative Secretary School Education Ms. Anindita Mitra, Director SCERT Ms. Kiran Sharma and other senior officials of the department were also present on the occasion.

Chandigarh:

To recognize the Excellence in the area of Health Research, PGI was awarded several awards for promoting Health Research during 2nd DHR- ICMR Health Research Excellence Summit 2025 organized by Department of Health Research-Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi on 13.11.2025.

The event was held to celebrate 114th anniversary of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The PGI was recognized and awarded under “Institutional Excellence Recognition: Extramural Institute: Overall PE” . On behalf of PGIMER, Chandigarh Dr Sanjay Jain, Dean (Research) received the award from Ms Anupriya Patel, Hon’ble Minister of State, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Government of India and Professor Vinod Paul, Member of NITI Aayog.

Dr Madhumita Premkumar, Department of Hepatology received the recognition award under the category of Publication (Public Health/Clinical) Extramural in the whole country on her publication on Hepatitis C. Dr Varinder Garg received recognition and award under the category “Innovation Excellence Recognition: Patent-Extramural”. His innovation “Quantitative Sensory Testing System Thereof” has been developed in collaboration with Panjab University. Chandigarh. of

This is the second consecutive time that the PGI has been awarded at DHR-ICMR Health Research Excellence Summit. The ICMR has approved 47 research projects this year for medical research at PGIMER, Chandigarh.