New Delhi/Chandigarh, March 25
Raising the issue of livelihood security in Chandigarh, MP Manish Tewari has sought detailed accountability mechanisms in the Lok Sabha to ensure transparent and fair recruitment for local inhabitants. Taking up the matter in the Lok Sabha vide unstarred question number 4971, Tewari asked the Minister for Labour and Employment to provide year‑wise details of persons registered with the Employment Exchange, Chandigarh, during the last five years and the current year.

Tewari also questioned the manner in which registered candidates were provided employment in Chandigarh Administration Departments on temporary, contractual and outsourced basis. The MP further inquired whether the Chandigarh administration has issued any rule or order mandating that 20–25 per cent of outsourced recruitment be routed through the Employment Exchange and if so, the details of such rule or order. Tewari finally sought details of the monitoring mechanism put in place by the Government to ensure compliance with outsourcing norms by the agencies concerned.

Though the Minister of State for Labour and Employment Shobha Karandlaje did respond to the queries raised by Tewari, most of the substantive concerns were left unaddressed. The only concrete information she provided was the number of persons registered with the Employment Exchange over the last five years and during the current year.

While the Minister furnished year‑wise registration figures with the Employment Exchange, Chandigarh, the reply fell short of addressing the core issues raised by Tewari. In response to Tewari’s query on the monitoring mechanism for outsourcing agencies, the Minister offered only a generic statement that compliance is overseen by departments as per contracts and guidelines. “This reply, while formally correct, smartly ducked the core of the question – it failed to spell out any specific monitoring system, checks or enforcement measures”, stated Tewari.

Regarding Tewari’s query about the existence of any rule mandating 20–25 per cent outsourced recruitment through the Employment Exchange, the Minister simply stated that no such instructions exist. “While technically clear, the reply evaded the larger concern of why such a safeguard has not been instituted, leaving unanswered the question of how transparency and fairness in outsourced recruitment will be ensured”, Tewari observed.

Expressing his views on the matter and the Minister’s response, Tewari said that the reply underscores the lack of clarity and transparency in the government’s approach to ensuring fair employment opportunities for Chandigarh residents.

Chandigarh:

A Continuing Nursing Education (CNE) programme on Brain Awareness week and Head Injury Day was organized by the National Institute of Nursing Education (NINE) in collaboration with the Department of Neurosurgery, PGIMER, Chandigarh. The programme was held at the NINE Auditorium to commemorate Brain Awareness Week (March 16-22) and World Head Injury Awareness Day (March 20) under the theme: “Fears of Modern Life: Its Impact on Brain Health.”

The programme was conducted under the guidance and coordination of Dr. Manju Dhandapani, Associate Professor, NINE. Dr. Sukhpal Kaur, Principal, NINE, delivered the welcome address and emphasized the growing importance of neurological awareness and preventive strategies in modern healthcare systems. The theme of the programme was formally released by Dr. Manisha Nagi, Faculty, NINE. The programme was graced by Chief Guest Dr. S.K. Gupta, Head, Department of Neurosurgery and Guest of Honour Dr. Swapanjeet Sahoo, Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, PGIMER, they highlighted the increasing burden of neurological disorders and mental health challenges associated with modern lifestyles, stress, and changing societal dynamics.

A special highlight of the programme was a Multigenerational Talk Show with Experts, moderated by Dr. Manju Dhandapani. The talk show explored how different generations-Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, Generation Z, and Generation Alpha- experience and respond to modern life stressors and digital influences affecting brain health. Experts included Dr. Sukhpal Kaur, Dr. Sunita Sharma, Dr. AasthaTakkar (Additional Professor, Neurology), and Dr. Shalini Naik (Associate Professor, Psychiatry)discussed generational differences in lifestyle patterns, technology use, mental health awareness, and coping mechanisms, emphasizing the need for age-appropriate brain health promotion strategies.

The scientific sessions focused on Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in which Ms. Renu, Neurosurgery Coordinator,Dr. Chander Shekhar, Associate Professor, Neurosurgery, Dr. Manisha Nagi delivered an overview of TBI and its prevention strategies followed by a session on Primary Survey in TBI and concluded with a talk on the long-term management and rehabilitation of TBI patients.

The programme also included felicitation of speakers, organizers, and winners of Brain Awareness Week competitions (poster making and slogan writing), acknowledging their valuable contributions.The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Meenakshi Agnihotri, Faculty, NINE, followed by the National Anthem. The programme successfully brought together experts from the nursing field, neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue on promoting brain health and preventing head injuries in contemporary society.

Chandigarh, March 25, 2026: To commemorate the work done in the field of mental health by late Prof BS Chavan, NGO ‘Parivartan’ along with Mental Health Institute and Department of Psychiatry, GMCH-32, Chandigarh celebrated “Dr B S Chavan Memorial Rehabilitation Program” here today. Prof. Ravneet Kaur, Director Principal, GMCH-32, Chandigarh was the chief guest for the occasion.

The event commenced with welcome speech by Dr Ajeet Sidana, HOD, Dept of Psychiatry, GMCH-32, Chandigarh. Dr Sidana informed the audience regarding the unique Public Private Partnership (PPP) model initiated by Dr Chavan and how Parivartan since then has been working with Dept of Psychiatry & MHI to offer unique services in the field of mental health. He also highlighted that Parivartan also works in close association with like minded NGOS, District legal services, various universities, Social welfare Dept etc to bring about lasting changes in the lives of persons with mental illness and their caregivers.  

Prof. Kaur, spoke about the life and work of Dr. BS Chavan, former Director Principal of GMCH & highlighted how Dr Chavan was known nationally and internationally as a harbinger of initiating innovative services in the field of mental health.

During the event, ‘Dr B S Chavan Memorial Award’ for the year 2026 was conferred to NGO ‘The Banyan’, Chennai for doing commendable work in the field of rehabilitation and community psychiatry in India.

Dr K.V. Kishore Kumar, Director of the NGO ‘The Banyan’ graced the occasion with his kind presence and also enlightened the audience with his talk on “Banyan model of care for homeless mentally ill”. Dr Shikha Tyagi, General Secretary, NGO ‘Parivartan’ gave vote of thanks and a total of 160 persons including persons with mental illness, their caregivers, mental health professionals attended the program.

Panchkula, March 24

Renowned master athlete Rakhi Sharma from Panchkula delivered an outstanding performance at the recently held 5th Khelo India Masters National Games 2026 in Chandigarh, winning three medals. She clinched a gold medal in the 400 meters, a silver medal in the 200 meters, and a bronze medal in the 100 meters in the master athletics category, bringing pride to the region. Rakhi trained under Indian Army coach Lokendra Pachera.

On this occasion, Rakhi Sharma said, “This is a moment of pride and happiness for me. I thank my coach Lokendra Pachera & my family members  for their support, which helped me achieve this success. My goal is to continue bringing glory to my country and my city. I want to convey to everyone that age is just a number—if you have passion and discipline, any goal can be achieved.”

This prestigious competition was   held in Chandigarh , and saw participation from around 3,500 athletes representing 28 states across India. More than 1,000 athletes competed across various age groups and athletic events, showcasing their talent. Rakhi Sharma achieved this feat by competing strongly against experienced athletes from different states.

At 44, Rakhi Sharma is not only a successful athlete but also an entrepreneur. She runs “The Soul Train Gym & Spa” located in Sector 20, Panchkula, which she established on August 15, 2022. In addition, she operates the “Soul Touch” salon in Dhakoli (Zirakpur). Her gym offers modern facilities and focuses on scientific training methods to prepare athletes.

Notably, Rakhi  has been actively participating in national and international master athletics competitions for several years and has won numerous medals. She has competed in 9 national events, 1 open international, and 1 Asian-level competition.

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.