Chandigarh, April 18, 2026

EPIC 2026, a premier national medical conference, took off here at Hyatt Regency Chandigarh, witnessing participation from over 600 doctors and healthcare professionals across the country. The event was graced by Kiran Bedi, India’s First Woman IPS Officer and Former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry as the Chief Guest.

In her keynote address, she spoke with great conviction on leadership, perseverance, and integrity, highlighting courage and resilience as essential values in both public service and the medical profession—leaving a strong impression on the audience.

Advocating women empowerment, she encouraged greater representation of women in leadership roles and acknowledged their significant contribution to nation-building. She also appreciated Chandigarh for its urban planning, cleanliness, and tourism appeal, while thoughtfully addressing the importance of effective traffic management and responsible civic participation.

Chandigarh:

The Sirsa MP, General Secretary of All India Congress Committee and former Union minister Kumari Selja launched a sharp attack on the BJP, alleging that attempts were being made to weaken democratic institutions under the guise of women’s reservation. Kumari Selja claimed that the opposition had foiled what she described as an effort to alter political balance through the delimitation process. Kumari Selja said that this is not just about women’s rights but about protecting the constitutional framework and federal structure. She alleged that the government was trying to link women’s reservation with delimitation in a manner that could reshape electoral representation to its advantage. She added such moves undermine the spirit of democracy and the Constitution.

Referring to the 2023 law on women’s reservation, Kumari Selja demanded that 33% quota for women be implemented from the 2029 Lok Sabha elections without delay. Any postponement, she said, would amount to injustice to women. Kumari Selja further alleged that the ruling party has repeatedly used the issue of women’s empowerment for political gains without taking substantial steps on the ground. According to her, women and youth are now increasingly aware of these concerns. Calling the issue larger than politics, Kumari Selja said it relates to safeguarding democratic values and the country’s future. She asserted that the Congress would continue to press for effective implementation of women’s reservation and protection of constitutional principles.

Chandigarh:

In a significant step towards strengthening patient care and hospital efficiency, the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh has received 25 barcode printers from Know Thyself as Soul Foundation.

The donation supports PGIMER’s newly implemented barcode-based system for laboratory and radiology services, aimed at streamlining processes, reducing waiting times, and minimizing crowding at Medical Record counters. The installation of these printers at the ward level is expected to significantly enhance patient convenience and operational efficiency.

Expressing gratitude, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER, stated, ““This thoughtful contribution marks a meaningful step towards strengthening our patient-centric systems. The integration of barcode technology at the ward level will significantly enhance efficiency, reduce waiting times, and ensure a smoother experience for patients. We deeply appreciate such collaborations that align with our vision of delivering seamless, technology-driven healthcare.”

Mr. Pankaj Rai, Deputy Director (Administration), added, “The addition of these barcode printers will greatly improve operational flow, particularly in lab and radiology services. By decentralizing key processes, we are minimizing crowding at record counters and bringing convenience closer to the patient. We commend Know Thyself as Soul Foundation for their valuable support in advancing hospital administration and patient care.”

Such initiatives by Know Thyself as Soul Foundation reflect a strong commitment to social responsibility and meaningful contribution to the healthcare sector.

Chandigarh:

World Liver Day 2026 will be observed on April 19, 2026. 

Theme for this year is “Solid Habits, Strong Liver” highlights four solid habits that keep your liver strong. This means that small, healthy daily habits can keep your liver strong and prevent diseases said Prof Sunil Taneja, from the department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical education & Research, Chandigarh, India.

The four solid habits which we have to inculcate in our daily routine are:

·       Eating a balanced nutritional diet

·       Staying active by regular physical activity

·       Reducing and stopping alcohol intake

·       Regular liver health checks

By making these habits part of your daily life, you can take control of your liver health and prevent serious complications said Prof Taneja

·       Nutrition and Exercise are not just a part of treatment—they are “foundational” to liver health said Prof Sunil Taneja who has published important research papers in international journals on the positive impact of nutrition in liver disease. He emphasised that small daily changes can make a big difference for your liver health. He said that the liver does a lot of heavy lifting: it filters toxins, processes nutrients, helps with digestion, and keeps our metabolism running smoothly.

World Liver Day is a global call to action with an idea to raise awareness, break the stigma around liver disease, and empower people with knowledge to make healthier choices because a healthier liver means a healthier life.

The liver is a vital organ that performs over many functions to detoxify the body, metabolize nutrients, and support digestion. Yet, millions suffer from liver diseases like hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

 What are the common causes of chronic liver disease?

The common causes of chronic liver disease  which are the major contributors to global health challenges are Fatty liver disease or MASLD (Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease), alcohol related liver disease and Hepatitis B and HCV infection. World-wide, MASLD affects approximately 25–30% of adults in the general population, and up to 50% of the urban population in India. Fatty liver is seen in about  50-60 % of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and almost all patients with obesity. Fatty liver and alcohol related liver disease are becoming the leading indication for liver transplant worldwide now.

What is Metabolic dysfunction Associated Fatty liver Disease (MAFLD), or in simple words Fatty Liver disease?

Fatty liver is the result of the accumulation of excess fat in liver cells. Fatty tissue slowly builds up in the liver when fat in a person’s diet exceeds the amount his or her body can handle. A person has a fatty liver when fat makes up at least 5-10% of the liver. Simple fatty liver can be a completely benign condition and usually does not lead to liver damage. However, once there is a build-“up of fat, the liver becomes vulnerable to further injury, which may result in inflammation and scarring of the liver.

The most common cause of fatty liver disease is obesity and other conditions that contribute to fatty liver disease are high blood sugars (Diabetes Mellitus), elevated lipids in the blood (Hyperlipidemia) and high blood pressure (Hypertension).

Prof Taneja said that modern lifestyle changes are a key contributor to this type of liver disease. Factors like unhealthy diet, reduced physical activity, sedentary behaviour, poor sleep pattern and mental stress all contribute to development of life style diseases.

What are the symptoms of fatty liver disease?

Fatty liver is often called a “silent disease” as most patients do not experience any noticeable symptoms. A small percentage of patients may complain of vague discomfort in the abdomen, generalized weakness, and fatigue. However if the fatty liver progresses and is associated with inflammation in the liver it may lead to development of cirrhosis and its complications including liver cancer. Because symptoms are often absent, regular health check-ups and early screening play a crucial role in identifying fatty liver disease before it advances said Prof Taneja.

How is fatty liver disease diagnosed?

Fatty liver disease is often suspected when patients present with an enlarged liver or show abnormal results in routine liver function tests. To confirm the condition, we commonly recommend an ultrasound, which can indicate the presence of excess fat in the liver said Prof Taneja . For a more detailed assessment, an advanced, non-invasive test known as FibroScan is widely used. This technique not only detects and quantifies fat accumulation in the liver but also evaluates the degree of scarring (fibrosis). Today, FibroScan is available in most hospitals, making early and accurate diagnosis more accessible said Prof Taneja.

What is the treatment of fatty liver disease?

Patients are advised to achieve a gradual and sustained weight loss through proper nutrition and exercise. Patients with diabetes and high lipids in their blood have to improve their sugar control and lower lipids levels. Usually, a low fat and a low-calorie diet is recommended along with medications to lower blood sugar in people with diabetes.

What is the current status on the use of weight loss medications?

In recent years, a new class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists has gained popularity for weight loss. While these medications can be effective, they are not a quick fix and caution is essential said Prof Taneja. It is important to understand that GLP-1 drugs should only be used under medical supervision as they come with potential side effects.

Can fatty liver disease be prevented?

A healthy lifestyle will prevent obesity, which is the most frequent cause of fatty liver disease.

Specific suggestions for preventing fatty liver disease:

o   Avoid alcohol.

o   Choose a healthy lifestyle.

o   Aim for a gradual and sustained weight loss if you are obese.

o   Diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber.

o   Daily exercise

This year’s theme reminds us that what we eat and how active we are directly affects how well our liver works. It highlights that how balanced nutrition  and physical activity can be a game-changer for liver health. A balanced diet rich in whole foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps prevent disease and supports liver function.  We  recommend at least 150 minutes/ week of exercise which is an achievable changes to your lifestyle for improving fatty liver. Whether it’s walking, cycling, swimming, dancing, or lifting weights, every bit of activity supports a stronger, healthier liver said Prof Taneja.

Chandigarh:

On 19 April, 2026, PGIMER Chandigarh will join the global medical community in observing World Liver Day.  This year’s theme, “Solid Habits, Strong Liver,” emphasizes that the health of this vital organ is determined by the consistent daily choices we make. *Globally, more than 1.5 billion individuals have underlying chronic liver disease. Driven by rising rates of obesity and high blood sugar, the prevalence of liver disease has increased by over 140% since 1990.

In India alone, around 2 in every 5 adults have underlying metabolic-dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The burden of alcohol-related liver disease and chronic viral hepatitis is also quite high in Chandigarh and its neighbouring states. “Fortunately, all the common causes of liver disease namely MASLD, alcohol-related liver disease and viral hepatitis are completely preventable with sustained adoption of a healthy life-style. Thus, solid habits form the foundation stone to a strong liver” said Prof Ajay Duseja, Head, Dept of Hepatology, PGIMER, Chandigarh.

The liver is often called the body’s metabolic factory and industrial powerhouse, performing over 500 vital functions including detoxification, energy storage, and nutrient processing. “However, it is also a silent sufferer. Many liver conditions show no symptoms until they reach advanced stages. This is why World Liver Day, 2026 is focusing on building ‘Solid Habits’ today to prevent the crises of tomorrow,” said Dr Arka De, Associate Professor in the Dept of Hepatology, PGIMER, Chandigarh. He emphasised that there are six pillars for ensuring a “strong liver”

 Eat Well: Prioritize a diet rich in fibre, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Reduce intake of processed foods and hidden sugars, which are the primary drivers of fat accumulation in the liver and other metabolic health complications like diabetes and hypertension.

 Move More: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week. Even small increases in movement can significantly reduce liver fat and improve metabolic health. Non-exercise activity is also helpful. Yoga is also beneficial and in a recent study, we have demonstrated the utility of yoga in patients with MASLD, said Dr Sunil Taneja, Additional Professor, Dept of Hepatology, PGIMER, Chandigarh.

 No alcohol: Alcohol remains a leading cause of cirrhosis i.e. liver scarring. Reducing or eliminating alcohol intake is the most direct way to allow the liver to repair itself. No amount of alcohol is “safe” or “healthy” , emphasised Dr Arka De, Associate Professor, Dept of Hepatology, PGIMER, Chandigarh . Daily drinking and binge drinking are particularly harmful and should be particularly avoided.

 Screen Early: Because liver disease is often asymptomatic, regular check-ups are critical—especially for individuals with risk factors such as Type 2 diabetes, high BMI, or high cholesterol and for detecting asymptomatic HBV and HCV infections.

 Vaccination : The Hepatitis B vaccination has been part of the national vaccination schedule for almost two decades. Raising awareness is key to ensure universal coverage with Hepatitis B vaccine. Vaccines are now also available for Hepatitis A and Hepatitis E viruses which are important causes of jaundice and acute liver failure in India.  

 Holistic healthy lifestyle : Say NO to smoking and unsafe practices like unprotected sexual intercourse and intravenous drug use. Adequate sleep is also important for a healthy liver and indeed a healthy life, said *Prof Ajay Duseja.

In observance of World Liver Day, 2026, the Department of Hepatology will be conducting a “ Liver Health Education and Screening Camp” for health care workers including faculty, resident doctors, nursing officers and technicians of PGIMER, Chandigarh for 1 month from 16th April till 14th May, said Prof Ajay Duseja.

Those wishing to get them screened will be tested for HBV and HCV infections and will undergo liver elastography for fat and fibrosis in the liver. The knowledge, attitude and practices of health care workers are fundamental for shaping the habits and health-related choices in the community. Moreover, viral hepatitis screening and ensuring adequate immunisation against Hepatitis B is also vital in health-care workers because of the risk of occupational exposure, said Dr Arka De.  

To conclude, the vast majority of liver disease is preventable. By turning simple lifestyle actions into solid habits, we can collectively reverse the trend of rising liver disease and build a healthier future for our community.

Chandigarh, April 18:

The Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to the welfare of every section of society, with special emphasis on the well-being of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers. Continuous and concrete efforts are being undertaken to address their concerns and strengthen their working conditions. This was stated by Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur.

On Saturday at Punjab Bhawan,  Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur, in the presence of Director, Social Security, Women and Child Development Department, Ms. Shena Aggarwal, and Deputy Director Ms. Sumandeep Kaur, interacted with Anganwadi Workers and Helpers. She said that Anganwadi Workers and Helpers are an integral part of the department and are playing a crucial role in delivering government schemes to children, women and families at the grassroots level. She assured that all genuine demands of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers would be considered sympathetically and resolved expeditiously.

During the meeting, the demands raised by the Anganwadi Workers and Helpers were heard attentively by Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur. She directed the concerned officials to ensure prompt and effective resolution of the issues being faced by them.

The Minister further stated that the demands requiring consideration at the government level will be placed before the newly constituted Sub-Committee and taken up for resolution on priority.

Dr. Baljit Kaur further highlighted that Anganwadi Workers and Helpers are playing a significant role in strengthening child health, nutrition and early childhood education, while also creating awareness among mothers. She added that their door-to-door outreach in both rural and urban areas is contributing significantly towards building a strong and healthy society.

The Minister reiterated that the Punjab Government remains committed to enhancing the dignity and welfare of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers, and appropriate decisions will continue to be taken in future, as required.

CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, April 18:

          In a major blow to narco-terror networks amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a drug-free state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, State Special Operations Cell (SSOC) Amritsar unit of Counter Intelligence wing has busted a cross-border drug smuggling module with the arrest of two accused and recovered 64.62 kg Heroin from their possession, said Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav here on Saturday.

          Those arrested have been identified as Sarwan Singh alias Gujjar, a resident of village Awan Wasau in Amritsar and Shamsher Singh alias Shera, a resident of village Dial Rangar in Amritsar. Apart from recovering the big haul of heroin, the police team has also impounded their Maruti Swift car, which they were using to smuggle narcotics.

          DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary investigation has revealed links of this module with Pakistan-based smugglers and Portugal-based handler.

          “The links of this cross-border trafficking ring are also established with network of notorious Pakistan-based smuggler Moosa, whose name had cropped-up in 532-kg heroin recovery case,” he said. Pertinently, Indian Customs officials had made largest recovery of 532 kg heroin at the Integrated Check Post (ICP) Attari in 2019.

          The DGP said that further investigation is underway to establish forward and backward linkages in this case to trace the entire network.

          Sharing operational details, AIG SSOC Amritsar Sukhminder Singh Mann said that a reliable input was received regarding suspects Sarwan Singh and Shamsher Singh having retrieved consignment of heroin deliveres through drone from across the border a few days back.

          He said that the input further revealed that on the instructions of their handlers, the duo were enroute to deliver the consignment to another party. Acting swiftly, the SSOC Amritsar unit team intercepted them near Mahal Bypass in Amritsar, and recovered 64.62 kg heroin from their possession, he added

          The AIG said that the arrested accused persons were promised huge payback by their handlers. More arrests and recoveries are likely in coming days as the investigation progresses.

          In this regard, a case FIR No. 23 dated 17.04.2026 under sections 21, 25 and 29 of the NDPS Act and sections 25, 26, 27, 28 and 29 of the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, has been registered at Police Station SSOC Amritsar.

Chandigarh:

The Haryana Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) has demonstrated remarkable efficiency by achieving significant success in the disposal of pending cases during the first quarter of 2026. Strengthening the scientific investigation system, the FSL has not only reduced the backlog of cases but has also made the investigation process faster, more transparent, and more effective. According to the available data, the number of pending cases, which stood at 16,040 on January 1, 2026, has decreased to 14,863 by March 31, 2026. This reflects an approximate reduction of 8 percent, which is the result of the FSL’s well-planned strategy, improved coordination, and continuous efforts. Such a large-scale reduction in backlog is a clear indication of improvement in the state’s forensic system and highlights the institution’s priority towards timely disposal of cases.*

‘Scientific Investigation Will Strengthen the Foundation of Justice: Ajay Singhal, Director General of Police, Haryana’
On this occasion, Haryana Director General of Police Ajay Singhal stated that under the able leadership of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, forensic science has become the cornerstone of modern and effective policing. Haryana Police is giving top priority to evidence-based investigation and is extensively using new technologies and modern equipment. This enhancement in FSL capacity will make the investigation process faster, more transparent, and more reliable, ensuring that strong and accurate evidence is presented before the courts in every case. He said that timely forensic reports, especially in heinous cases, provide a decisive edge to police investigations and play a crucial role in presenting strong cases in courts. He further emphasized that the goal is to make the investigation system in Haryana fully scientific and evidence-based so that the process of securing convictions becomes more effective and public confidence in the justice system is further strengthened.*

‘Historic Performance by Haryana FSL: Technological Empowerment and Faster Investigations Give New Momentum to Crime Control’
The Haryana Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) has achieved unprecedented accomplishments in the first quarter of 2026 (January–March), further strengthening the state’s crime investigation system. Through the integration of advanced technologies, expansion of human resources, and speedy disposal of cases, the FSL has proved that scientific investigation is the backbone of modern policing. During this period, special emphasis was placed on strengthening human resources. Approval for 63 new posts is expected to further enhance the institution’s efficiency. These include scientific officers and technical staff who will play a crucial role in ensuring more accurate and reliable investigation of complex cases. The recruitment process is also being expedited on priority so that these posts can be filled at the earliest and the laboratory’s full capacity can be utilized.*

‘Advanced Technology and Mobile Forensic Vans Bring Revolutionary Speed to Investigations, Strengthening Evidence-Based Action’
In the field of technological upgradation, the FSL has made significant investments by procuring advanced equipment worth approximately ₹3.28 crore. These instruments are enabling unprecedented speed and accuracy in areas such as DNA analysis, narcotics testing, cyber forensics, and digital evidence analysis. Additionally, equipment worth ₹68.7 lakh has been inducted specifically for the investigation of cyber and digital crimes, making it more effective to tackle emerging crime challenges. Furthermore, the state government has approved 11 advanced mobile forensic vans, which will facilitate on-site evidence collection and preliminary analysis. This initiative will not only improve the quality of investigations but also ensure preservation and timely analysis of evidence, thereby helping in building strong cases against criminals. These efforts by Haryana FSL are proving to be a milestone in strengthening law and order in the state. Scientific, evidence-based investigation is not only enabling firm action against criminals but also helping in increasing the conviction rate in courts.

New Delhi, April 16: Newly elected Member of Parliament from Haryana, Sanjay Bhatia, took oath as a Member of the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. The oath was administered by Vice President of India and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, C.P. Radhakrishnan. Bhatia took the oath in Hindi.

Elected to Lok Sabha in 2019
Born on July 29, 1967, in Panipat, Sanjay Bhatia began his political journey during his student years with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the student wing of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His active political career started in the late 1980s when he became Mandal General Secretary in 1987 and later served as Mandal President in 1989.

In 2001, he was appointed Chairman of the Municipal Council. From 2015 to 2021, he served as the State General Secretary of BJP Haryana. He also held the position of Chairman of the Haryana Khadi and Village Industries Board, contributing significantly to rural development and self-employment initiatives.

His major political breakthrough came in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, when he contested for the first time from the Karnal parliamentary constituency and secured a landslide victory on a BJP ticket. He recorded the highest margin of victory in Haryana’s 53-year history, reflecting his strong grassroots connect and dedication to public service. In 2024, he stepped aside from the seat in line with the party’s decision and took on key organizational responsibilities, including playing an important role in the Haryana Assembly elections.

Campaigning Until a Day Before Son’s Wedding
Sanjay Bhatia is widely regarded for his commitment to the party. Notably, he was actively campaigning in the West Bengal elections until just a day before his son’s wedding on February 15, 2026. He returned home late on February 13, attended the ring ceremony on February 14, and participated in the wedding on February 15. He resumed campaigning in West Bengal on February 16.

On the day of his oath-taking as a Rajya Sabha MP, he arrived in Delhi from West Bengal in the morning and, after the ceremony, returned to West Bengal the same afternoon—underscoring his dedication to party responsibilities.