Chandigarh:

Artificial Intelligence will fundamentally transform healthcare by augmenting the capabilities of doctors, enabling greater knowledge, efficiency and reach,” stated the Chief Guest Prof. Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi , Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi at the 63rd Institute Foundation Day celebrations of PGIMER, Chandigarh, held at NINE Auditorium.
The Foundation Day celebrations were attended by dignitaries including Dr. Alka Rao, Director, IMTECH Chandigarh, Prof. Yogesh Chawla, Former Director, PGIMER, Prof. Sanjay Jain, Dean (Academics), Prof. Sanjeev Handa, Dean (Research), Prof. Ashok Kumar, Medical Superintendent-cum-Head, Department of Hospital Administration, Sh. Ravinder Singh, Financial Advisor, former and present Deans, Heads of Departments, senior faculty, resident doctors, nursing officers and members of the PGIMER fraternity.
Delivering the Foundation Day address on “ AI in Healthcare”, Prof. Chaturvedi described PGIMER as a “true national asset” and lauded its pioneering contributions to healthcare, education, research and innovation.
“ PGIMER Chandigarh is, without doubt, a true national asset—not limited to one region, but making a significant contribution to healthcare, education, research and innovation across the country. I congratulate each and every member of the PGIMER family for this remarkable journey and for keeping the institution at the forefront of Indian healthcare,” said Prof. Chaturvedi.
Emphasising that AI should be viewed as an enabler rather than a replacement for medical professionals, Prof. Chaturvedi said, “The most successful healthcare deployments today are not examples of AI replacing doctors. They are examples of AI helping doctors perform at their best.”

Vice Chancellor BHU noted that AI had moved beyond being a technological novelty and was making deep inroads into healthcare, research and decision-making. “AI is no more something like a fashionable toy or something that is a status symbol. It has made very deep inroads in the market, and naturally, we cannot be just watching it from a distance,” he observed.
Highlighting its potential to process vast volumes of medical information, he said AI could assist doctors in extracting information from clinical records, pathology reports and scientific literature. “The assistant does not replace expertise, but it dramatically expands the amount of knowledge a physician can effectively utilise,” he said.
On medical research, Prof. Chaturvedi observed, “The real transformation is that researchers can now ask questions that were previously too expensive or time-consuming to investigate.”

Prof. Chaturvedi also cautioned against adopting AI without considering Indian healthcare realities. AI systems trained predominantly on Western datasets may not adequately reflect Indian disease patterns, patient populations and clinical practices. He stressed the need for India to move from being merely a consumer of healthcare AI to becoming a creator of solutions rooted in Indian realities.
Prof. Chaturvedi highlighted AI’s potential in remote healthcare, radiology, hospital management and evidence-based decision-making, while noting that complex physical tasks such as surgery remain a frontier for further development. He also stressed that medical education would increasingly focus on clinical judgement, evidence evaluation, critical thinking and patient communication rather than memorisation alone.

Concluding, Prof. Chaturvedi said, “The first generation of AI helped humans find information. The next generation is helping humans make decisions. The generation after that will help humans take action.”
Earlier, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, highlighted the Institute’s remarkable expansion, growing patient capacity, affordable healthcare initiatives and declining waiting lists.
Referring to the recent inauguration of two major centres by the Prime Minister, Prof. Lal said, “ The Prime Minister inaugurated two major centres on July 17th, which was a boost in our arm. The Advanced Mother & Child Centre and the Advanced Neuroscience Centre directly gave us 800 beds. From 2,200 beds, we have 3,000 beds now for taking care of our patients.”
Highlighting PGIMER’s commitment to affordable healthcare, Prof. Lal said, “We don’t see that we have spent five lakhs. We don’t see how much we have saved in crores.”
Describing the Institute’s standing among leading global institutions, Prof. Lal said, “I consider PGI as one of the best institutions in the world. I will not say everything is 100% fine here, but considering our infrastructure, considering our patient trust, I think we are miles ahead of many top institutes across the world.”

Director PGIMER credited the Institute’s dedicated workforce for its continued progress and highlighted PGIMER’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure, diagnostic services, manpower and collaborations with emerging healthcare institutions.
Highlighting PGIMER’s commitment to making advanced healthcare affordable, Prof. Lal spoke about the benefits reaching patients through Ayushman Bharat and the availability of affordable generic medicines through Amrit Pharmacy outlets. He noted that the savings generated for patients run into crores, particularly in the treatment of serious and prolonged illnesses.
Pointing to improving service delivery despite increasing patient footfall, Prof. Lal said, “You must have seen, our waiting list is decreasing day by day. The patient rush is increasing. The waiting list is decreasing. So, PGI is moving in the right direction.”
On institutional collaboration, particularly with BHU, he assured continued support, saying, “We promise you all help of any kind for BHU. You just name it and we will do it. We are very happy to help and handhold centres.”
Thirty-five PGIMER employees were honoured by Chief Guest Prof. Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi, along with Prof. Vivek Lal, Director; Prof. Sanjay Jain, Dean (Academics); and Prof. Sanjiv Handa, Dean (Research), for their outstanding service. The awardees were presented appreciation certificates and mementoes:
Mr. Alel Singh Negi, Hospital Attendant, Histopathology
Mr. Sushil Kumar, Hospital Attendant, Training Branch
Mr. Bhuram Singh, Hospital Attendant, Cytology & Gynae Pathology
Mr. Sate Singh, Hospital Attendant, Physiotherapy
Mr. Pratap Chand, Hospital Attendant, General Branch
Mr. Durga Singh, Hospital Attendant, Office of Deputy Director (Admn.)
Mr. Kiran Pal, MTS (Sanitation), Office of Sr. Admn. Officer
Mr. Vinod Kumar, MTS (Sanitation), Forensic Medicine
Mr. Dhan Singh, MTS (Sanitation), Central Animal House
Mr. Deepak, MTS (Sanitation), Medical Microbiology
Mr. Sonu, MTS (Sanitation), Medical Record Department
Mr. Kali Das, Mali, Engineering Department
Mr. Rajinder Singh, Work Inspector, Engineering Department
Mr. Surinder Kumar, Security Guard, Security Department
Mr. Paramjit Singh, Assistant Administrative Officer, General Branch
Mr. Ashok Kumar, Junior Administrative Officer, Establishment Branch-I
Mr. Ravjit Singh, Senior Lab Technician, Biochemistry
Ms. Lalita Arora, Technical Assistant, Hepatology
Mr. Ashwani Kumar, Senior Lab Technician, Gastroenterology
Mr. Mandeep Saini, Senior Lab Technician, Pulmonary Medicine
Mr. Ominder Kumar, Private Secretary, Pediatrics
Ms. Rajni Gupta, Senior Nursing Officer, Pulmonary Medicine
Ms. Reeta, Officiating DNS, Nursing (Infection Control)
Ms. Jyoti, Senior Nursing Officer, Clinical Hematology & Medical Oncology
Ms. Manpreet Kaur, Nursing Officer, APC PICU
Ms. Rajni, Nursing Officer, Renal Transplant OT
Mr. Rajesh, Nursing Officer, Pediatric Gastroenterology Ward
Mr. Lalit Chand Pant, Junior Administrative Officer, Establishment Branch-II
Mr. Sachin Sharma, Senior Administrative Assistant, Establishment Branch-II
Ms. Shweta, Senior Administrative Assistant, Establishment Branch-II
Mr. Vivek Kumar, Senior Administrative Assistant, Establishment Branch-II
Ms. Surbhi Sharma, Junior Administrative Assistant, Establishment Branch-I
Mr. Sourabh Sharma, Junior Administrative Assistant, Establishment Branch-II
Ms. Ambika Saini, Administrative Officer, Establishment Branch-I & II
Ms. Anand Yadav, Assistant Administrative Officer, Recruitment Cell
Prof. Sanjeev Handa, Dean (Research), PGIMER, proposed the vote of thanks, formally concluding the celebrations.

Chandigarh, September 6: Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the youth of Haryana have resolved to fight a decisive battle against drugs, and this enthusiasm among the youth will give a new direction to the campaign to make the state drug-free. He said that the Haryana Government has put in place a robust system focusing on enforcement, awareness, treatment and rehabilitation to tackle the challenge of drug abuse.

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini was addressing the Half Marathon organised in Rewari on Sunday as the Chief Guest, with the objective of taking the resolve of ‘Nasha Mukt Haryana-Khel Yukt Haryana’ to every section of society and connecting youth with sports to create a strong social environment against drugs. The grand marathon was organised on the theme ‘Nashe se jung, Rewari ke sang’. Rewari MLA Sh. Laxman Yadav, Bawal MLA Dr. Krishan Kumar, Kosli MLA Sh. Anil Yadav, Nalwa MLA Sh. Randhir Panihar, Sh. Pankaj Nain, and the marathon’s brand ambassador, Commonwealth Games 2026 para-athletics gold medallist Sharmila Dhankhar, among other dignitaries, were present on the occasion.

Before flagging off the marathon, Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that there can be no place for a social evil like drug abuse on the land of Rewari, known for valour, hard work and patriotism. He said that the drug problem did not emerge suddenly but is a long-standing challenge that was not given serious attention earlier. Over the past 12 years, the Haryana Government has viewed this problem not through a political lens, but in the context of the future of Haryana’s families and youth. The government is committed to taking effective and concrete steps against drugs and providing youth with a safe and positive environment.

The Chief Minister said that a drug-free youth is the foundation of a happy family, skilled youth will build a prosperous Haryana, and determined youth will become the strength of a developed and self-reliant India.

Chief Minister seeks cooperation from youth in raising public awareness against drugs

Calling upon the youth to actively participate in the public awareness campaign against drugs, Chief Minister Saini said that if they find anyone around them involved in drug sales or activities such as drug peddling, they should not remain silent. One piece of information from them can save the life of a young person and prevent a family from losing its hope.

He said that if every young person takes responsibility for making at least 10 other youngsters aware of the harmful effects of drugs, this resolve can soon take the form of a massive mass movement. He informed that a toll-free anti-drug helpline number, 9050891508, has been launched to assist drug-affected persons and provide information about drug-peddling activities. In addition, complaints related to narcotic substances can also be registered through the ‘MANAS’ portal and helpline number 1933.

The Chief Minister said that the identity of complainants is kept completely confidential. Therefore, citizens should participate in the campaign against drugs without any fear. On the occasion, the Chief Minister also administered an oath to those present to participate in the ongoing campaign against drugs.

Chief Minister boosts the morale of over 50,000 runners

During the Half Marathon, Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini showered flowers on more than 50,000 runners and other participants from the flag-off stage, boosting their enthusiasm. Flowers were also showered on over 50,000 runners through drones along the marathon track.

The warm welcome extended by the Chief Minister created an atmosphere of enthusiasm and excitement among the runners. The sight of flowers raining down from the sky, along with the energetic participation of the runners, remained one of the major attractions of the event. Amid the flower shower, the runners also enthusiastically greeted the Chief Minister and participated in the marathon with full zeal.

Chief Minister reaches marathon track and encourages runners

After flagging off thousands of runners participating in the run, Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini himself reached the marathon track and ran alongside the participants, encouraging them. Seeing the Chief Minister running among them generated considerable enthusiasm and excitement among the runners.

During this, the Chief Minister waved to the participants taking part in the marathon and encouraged them. He also planted saplings in the greenbelt along the marathon track, conveying the message of environmental conservation.

Cultural performances boost the enthusiasm of youth

Various cultural performances, from the flag-off stage to the marathon track, remained a major attraction during the marathon. Performances by singers Naveen Poonia and Satyan Lamba at the flag-off stage filled the atmosphere with enthusiasm and excitement.

At various cultural points set up along the marathon track, students from different schools of the district presented cultural programmes and worked to energise the runners. Sand art and exhibitions conveying the message of a drug-free Haryana also spread awareness among the participants.

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini honoured the winners of the Rewari Marathon, which concluded with record participation, by presenting them cash prizes and certificates of appreciation at the stage set up in front of Rao Tula Ram Stadium.

The 10-kilometre Half Marathon, which started at 6 a.m., was won by Monu Kumar in the men’s category. Dharmendra secured second place, while Ramsangrup won the third prize. In the women’s category of the same marathon, Sarita Pal secured first place. Sonika won the second prize, while Neeta Rani secured third place and received the award from the Chief Minister.

The 5-kilometre marathon, which started at 7 a.m., saw Yash secure the first prize in the men’s category. Pankaj stood second, while Shankardayal secured third place. In the women’s category, Pooja finished first, followed by Sonia in second place and Neelam in third place.

The Chief Minister awarded cheques of Rs. 1 lakh, Rs. 50,000 and Rs. 21,000, respectively, along with certificates of appreciation, to the first three winners of the 10-kilometre race. Similarly, the runners securing the first three positions in the 5-kilometre race were awarded incentive amounts of Rs. 5,100, Rs. 3,100 and Rs. 2,100, respectively. Para-athlete Sharmila Dhankhar was also honoured on the occasion.

Nainital

The Nainital Police have busted an alleged international cybercrime racket operating from the Mukhani area and arrested six people, including the alleged kingpin, while two juveniles in conflict with law were taken into protective custody.

The breakthrough came during a joint operation by the Mukhani police, SOG and Cyber Cell under ‘Operation Hotspot-2026’, a statewide drive against cybercriminals, mule bank accounts, suspicious mobile numbers and illegal cash withdrawals.

Acting on specific intelligence, a joint police team raided a house in Laxman Vihar Colony under Mukhani police station during the intervening night of September 5 and 6. The operation was conducted under the supervision of senior police officials and on the directions of Nainital SSP Dr Manjunath TC.

Police identified Rahul Yadav, 30, a resident of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, as the alleged kingpin of the network. Five other accused — Harshit Kumar, Kamal Goswami, Sahil Kumar, Mohammad Ayan and Mohammad Shubhan — were also arrested.

According to police, the syndicate allegedly used mule bank accounts, ATM/debit cards, SIM cards and an unauthorised application to facilitate and layer illicit financial transactions. Investigators suspect that the racket was involved in cyber fraud involving more than ₹5 crore over a period of four months.

Crypto transactions and mule accounts

Police said Rahul Yadav allegedly used the Binance app to purchase USDT cryptocurrency after collecting cash. The cryptocurrency was then allegedly sold through an unauthorised application called UMASTER, which investigators said was obtained through Telegram and operated without valid documentation, KYC or source verification.

According to police, USDT worth around ₹4-5 lakh was allegedly transacted daily, with participants being lured by an additional three per cent profit and bonus.

The gang allegedly recruited local youths by offering them commissions and obtained bank accounts, ATM/debit cards, cheque books and passbooks from account holders. These accounts were allegedly used as mule accounts to layer and route illegally obtained funds.

Police further alleged that gang members withdrew cash from the mule accounts through ATMs. When the cash involved was substantial, the money was allegedly deposited or transferred into other bank accounts through Cash Deposit Machines (CDMs).

The gang allegedly retained the SIM cards linked to the bank accounts, allowing its members to control the accounts and restricting account holders from independently accessing or monitoring transactions.

24 ATM cards, 11 smartphones seized

During the raid, police recovered ₹1,18,800 in cash, a Dell laptop, an Apple iPad and 11 smartphones, including iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S24 and Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra models.

The police also seized 24 active ATM/debit cards belonging to different banks, 12 active SIM cards, six cheque books, four passbooks and 16 bank deposit/CDM slips.

Police said efforts were underway to arrest two other wanted suspects allegedly linked to the network.

The two juveniles taken into protective custody were produced before the competent authorities for further legal proceedings under the Juvenile Justice framework.

A case has been registered at Mukhani Police Station under FIR No. 141/2026 under Sections 66(C) and 66(D) of the Information Technology Act and Sections 3(5) and 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

SSP Nainital announced a cash reward of ₹2,500 for the police team involved in the operation.

Police appeal

Nainital Police have appealed to the public not to hand over their bank accounts, ATM/debit cards, passbooks or cheque books to anyone in exchange for commissions or financial incentives.

Police warned that account holders may also face legal action if their accounts are found to have been used for cybercrime.

The public has been advised to report suspicious financial activity immediately to the nearest police station or through the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930.

Chandigarh, September 4

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that while following the teachings of Lord Krishna, the youth should acquire modern education and advance in science and technology. They should bring glory to Haryana and India in every field across the world. At the same time, they should remain connected with their values, culture and roots. Modernity, discipline, talent, humility, success and a spirit of service should also be reflected in the lives of the youth. This is the strength of our culture and will form the strong foundation of ‘Viksit Bharat-Viksit Haryana’.

The Chief Minister was speaking at the Shri Krishna Janmashtami Mahotsav organised at Shivala Ramkundi in Ladwa, Kurukshetra, on Friday.

The Chief Minister visited the exhibition organised as part of the programme. Former Minister of State Sh. Subhash Sudha was also present with him on the occasion.

The Chief Minister extended greetings and best wishes to the people of the country and the state on the occasion of Shri Krishna Janmashtami. He also announced an amount of ₹21 lakh for the Vaman Dwadashi Mela Committee.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Janmashtami is a celebration of the great message of religion, duty, truth, courage, love and public welfare that Lord Shri Krishna gave to all humanity through his life. The birth of Kanhaji gives us the confidence that no matter how difficult the circumstances are, and no matter how powerful injustice may be, if a person remains steadfast on the path of truth and righteousness, victory ultimately belongs to him.

He said that Lord Shri Krishna was born in a prison. The circumstances were adverse and there was an atmosphere of injustice all around. However, amid that darkness, a ray of hope was born, and that ray later became the cause of the end of unrighteousness. This is the greatest message of Janmashtami: no matter how deep the darkness may be, no one can prevent light from being born.

The Chief Minister said that Lord Shri Krishna never gave the message of escaping from life. He inspired people to face challenges. Remaining silent in the face of injustice is not righteousness. Standing up for what is right is true righteousness. Therefore, Lord Shri Krishna is our guide in life. He said that we learn from His life that greatness lies not in position but in conduct. Despite being God, He honoured His friendship with Sudama. He lifted Govardhan to protect society. He heard Draupadi’s call for help. He accepted the role of Arjuna’s charioteer. His entire life teaches us that the person who shares in the joys and sorrows of others is truly great.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that we are part of the sacred land of Kurukshetra, where Lord Shri Krishna gave the immortal message of Karmayog to all humanity through the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita. This is the same land where Lord Shri Krishna showed Arjuna, who was overcome by attachment, the path of duty. It is a matter of pride for us to live on this land. We must not step back from our duty when faced with difficulties in life. We must continue performing our duties with complete dedication and honesty, without worrying about the results. For me too, this message of the Gita has remained a source of inspiration in public life. Public service is my duty, and performing this duty with complete dedication is my Dharma, he said.

He said that the life of Lord Shri Krishna is also a special source of inspiration for the youth. Youth is not merely a matter of age; it represents energy, determination and courage. Lord Shri Krishna confronted oppression at a young age. He organised society and took even the most difficult decisions for the establishment of righteousness.

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that today, our youth are also facing numerous challenges. There is competition, distraction, and the danger of drugs and negativity. In such times, the message of the Gita becomes even more relevant. The youth should remain focused on their goals. Work hard and respect your parents. Keep your body healthy. Stay away from drugs and channel your energy towards nation-building. The day the youth recognise the power within themselves, no goal will remain impossible for them.

The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, India today is moving towards new heights of development while taking pride in its cultural heritage. At present, India is conveying to the world the message that modern development and ancient culture complement each other. On the one hand, the country is advancing in digital technology, science, space and modern infrastructure. On the other hand, our faith, traditions and cultural heritage are being presented before the world with renewed self-confidence. This is the New India, which remains connected to its roots and is moving confidently towards the future.

The Chief Minister said that when the people place their trust in a public representative, that trust inspires him to work day and night in the service of the people. Assuring the people of his commitment, the Chief Minister said that work is being carried out with complete dedication for the development of Ladwa, expansion of facilities and improvement in the lives of every family here, and the same efforts will continue in the future as well. On this occasion, students from various schools presented excellent performances and won everyone’s hearts.

Chandigarh, September 4: Senior BJP leader and former Chandigarh party president Sanjay Tandon met Vice President of India CP Radhakrishnan at Panjab University (PU) on Friday and interacted with the Vice President on a range of issues concerning the university and the region. Tandon shared his views  on issues related to the varsity’s teaching and non-teaching staff and strengthening of leadership among others. Tandon and the Vice President also exchanged views on several  issues of national importance & matters concerning Punjab.

Chandigarh: Krishna Janmashtami was celebrated with religious fervour and traditional enthusiasm across Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh on Friday, with temples beautifully decorated and devotees gathering in large numbers to mark the birth of Lord Krishna.

Janmashtami, observed on the eighth day of the dark fortnight of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna and is celebrated with devotion across the country.

Temples across the region resonated with devotional chants, bhajans and the sounds of conch shells as devotees celebrated Janmashtami with traditional fervour. Devotees observed fasts and offered prayers, while special pujas, kirtans, religious discourses and cultural programmes were organised at various religious places.

In Chandigarh, prominent temples witnessed a steady stream of devotees throughout the day. The temples were decorated with flowers, colourful lights and tableaux depicting episodes from the life of Lord Krishna. Children dressed as Krishna and Radha added to the festive atmosphere.

Devotees observed fasts and participated in celebrations that continued throughout the day, with preparations intensifying ahead of the traditional midnight celebrations marking Krishna’s birth. As evening approached, devotees gathered in larger numbers for special programmes leading up to midnight, when the birth of Lord Krishna was traditionally celebrated amid devotional singing, ringing of bells and chants.

Special prayer ceremonies, bhajan-kirtans and religious programmes were organised at temples in different cities and towns.

In several places, children dressed as Krishna and Radha added colour to the festivities, while devotees participated in devotional singing and religious discourses.

Markets and temple surroundings also witnessed festive activity, with stalls selling sweets, fruits, devotional items and decorative material. Security arrangements were strengthened at major temples and crowded religious sites to ensure smooth conduct of the celebrations.

The atmosphere turned particularly festive in the evening as devotees gathered in large numbers for special programmes leading up to midnight, when the birth of Lord Krishna was celebrated amid chants of “Hare Krishna” and “Nand Ke Anand Bhayo.”

Chandigarh

Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria on Thursday launched the “Swachh Ward Ranking 2026” initiative of the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh, calling for collective efforts by citizens, elected representatives, officials, sanitation workers, RWAs, market associations, educational institutions and other stakeholders to make cleanliness a sustained public movement.

Addressing the gathering, Kataria said that the Swachh Ward Ranking 2026 is not merely a competition among wards, but an initiative aimed at creating a new culture of accountability, public participation, healthy competition and scientific waste management in Chandigarh. He said that the identity of the “City Beautiful” is defined not only by its architecture, greenery, wide roads and planned sectors, but equally by cleanliness, civic discipline and responsible behaviour towards public spaces. He emphasised that Chandigarh’s beauty is a legacy, while preserving and enhancing it is the responsibility of the present generation.

The Governor said that a city does not become clean on its own and sustained cleanliness requires the combined efforts of the Municipal Corporation, sanitation workers and citizens. He urged residents to make source segregation, responsible waste disposal and cleanliness of public spaces a daily habit.

Referring to the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, he said cleanliness must move beyond being a government programme and become a personal value and social behaviour. He also called for greater adoption of the principles of Reduce, Reuse and Recycle, promoting composting, recycling, reuse and the concept of Waste to Wealth and Circular Economy, with the ultimate objective of minimising waste reaching final disposal sites.

Sh. Kataria highlighted that the Swachh Ward Ranking would bring the cleanliness assessment down to the ward, neighbourhood, market, park, street and household level. He appreciated the transparent, objective and evidence-based assessment framework and evaluation parameters, covering door-to-door waste collection, source segregation, cleanliness of public spaces, management of bulk waste generators, control of single-use plastic, public toilets, zero-waste initiatives, scientific waste management and citizen participation. He said the ranking should measure the entire waste-management chain—from generation, collection and segregation to transportation, processing, recycling, reuse and final disposal—and should be based on actual outcomes rather than photographs or paperwork alone.

He directed the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh to explore possibilities for conducting the swachh ward rankings two times in a year if not possible for conducting it monthly.

The Governor urged councillors to act as the “key facilitators” of the campaign in their respective wards and bring together officials, sanitation workers, RWAs, market associations, schools, youth organisations and citizens. He also called upon schools and colleges to turn students into “Swachhta Ambassadors” who can carry the message of responsible waste management to their homes and communities. Appreciating the role of sanitation workers, he stressed that their dignity, safety, training, protective equipment and health protection must be ensured, while mechanisation and modern technology should be promoted for hazardous sanitation work.