Chandigarh, December 13:

 Reaffirming the commitment of the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab government to support aspirations of young women, Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute (AFPI) for Girls in SAS Nagar (Mohali) has added another remarkable achievement to its illustrious history, with two of its distinguished alumni, Charanpreet Kaur and Mehak Dahiya, being commissioned as Flying Officers in the Indian Air Force. They successfully passed out from the Air Force Academy, Dundigal (Hyderabad) on Saturday, bringing pride and glory to their alma mater.

 They were commissioned in an impressive passing out parade, that was reviewed by Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, SM, VSM.

 Flying Officer Charanpreet Kaur is daughter of S. Harminder Singh Banwait, who is a driver by profession and hails from Kurali in SAS Nagar, whereas Flying Officer Mehak Dahiya is daughter of Sh. Anil Kumar Dahiya, who is a Government Teacher and also hails from SAS Nagar.

Flying Officer Charanpreet Kaur has been commissioned in the Administrative Branch, while Flying Officer Mahak Dahiya has been commissioned in the Accounts Branch of the Air Force.

Punjab Employment Generation, Skill Development and Training Minister Aman Arora congratulated Flying Officers Charanpreet Kaur and Mehak Dahiya on their remarkable achievement, stating their success will inspire more young women from Punjab to pursue careers in the defence services.

Notably, the Punjab Government has also established an NDA Preparatory Wing for Girls at Mai Bhago AFPI in July 2023, with the third batch currently undergoing training. It also is worth mentioning that a new block, which has been named after Field Marshal SHFJ Manekshaw, was inaugurated in November 2025.

Director of Mai Bhago AFPI, Major General Jasbir Singh Sandhu, AVSM (Retd), expressed delight over the commissioning of the two alumni as Flying Officers, stating that this achievement will further energise the state government’s efforts to encourage more girls to join the armed forces. He extended his warm wishes to the newly commissioned Lady Officers for a bright future in the Indian Air Force.

CHANDIGARH, December 13:

          Continuing the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state consecutively for the 287th day, Punjab Police conducted raids at 178 locations on Saturday leading to the arrest of 27 drug smugglers after registration of 25 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 40,209 in 287 days.

          The raids have resulted in recovery of 725 grams heroin, 500 grams opium and 75 intoxicant pills from the possession of arrested drug smugglers.

          Notably, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann has asked the Commissioners of Police, Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendent of Police to make Punjab drug free state. The Punjab government has also constituted a 5-member Cabinet Sub Committee led by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema to monitor the war against drugs.

          Over 80 Police teams, comprising over 500 police personnel, under the supervision of 36 gazetted officers have conducted 178 raids across the state. Police teams have also checked as many as 186 suspicious persons during the day-long operation.

          The state government has enforced a three-pronged strategy— Enforcement, Deaddiction and Prevention (EDP)— to eradicate drugs from the state, the Punjab Police as part of ‘De-addiction’ has convinced 15 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

Panchkula: A large number of people visited the second day of Ayurveda Mahotsav 2025 being held at Indradhanush Auditorium, Sector 5, Panchkula. Visitors came in large numbers to gain information related to Ayurveda and were seen purchasing Ayurvedic products from the exhibition stalls. A deep interest and growing awareness about Ayurveda was clearly visible among the public.

On the second day of the festival, former BJP MLA from Panchkula, Gyan Chand Gupta, attended the event as the chief guest. He congratulated the organizers for hosting such an Ayurvedic exhibition in Panchkula and appreciated their efforts to promote Ayurveda. Acharya Manish was present as the special guest on the occasion.

The program began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by chief guest Gyan Chand Gupta, Acharya Manish, BJP leader Ranjita Mehta, and Om Prakash Devi Nagar. Thereafter, the organizers honored the chief guest and other dignitaries by presenting shawls and mementos.

Acharya Manish inspected various stalls set up at the exhibition and gathered detailed information from institutions selling Ayurvedic medicines and products about their benefits, usage, and precautions. He also addressed the gathering in a special session, highlighting the advantages of Ayurveda. He said that amid changing lifestyles and increasing diseases, Ayurveda is emerging as the most effective and reliable system of medicine, and that the future belongs to Ayurveda.

During the event, Rajesh Goyal, North Zone Convener of Swadeshi Jagran Manch, also visited the festival. He gathered information about Ayurvedic products and emphasized the importance of the Swadeshi movement.

Festival organizer Dr. Rishabh Dixit stated that this event would prove to be a significant milestone in the field of holistic medicine. According to him, experts from across the country are sharing their research, experiences, and modern perspectives, which will further strengthen the scientific foundation of Ayurveda.

Prominent experts present at the event included Ajit Pal Singh, Sanchit Sharma, Taranjit Singh Bharna, Rampal Somani, and Hitesh Jani. These experts shared their views on the modern direction of Ayurveda, technological advancements, and global possibilities, adding further prestige to the program.

The organizing team played a key role in the successful execution of the festival, including Rishabh Dixit, Jai Soni, Manya Dixit, Yogita Bhati, and Siddhi Mishra. Due to their planned approach and effective coordination, the festival has been well-organized and impactful since the very first day.

More than 4,000 doctors, Ayurvedic practitioners from across the country, and over 100 medicine manufacturers are showcasing their research-based medicines and modern technologies at the exhibition. In addition, free health camps, yoga sessions, consultation centers, and medicine distribution stalls witnessed heavy footfall throughout the day, providing direct benefits to the general public.

Experts from Ayurvedic institutions stated that several of their products are receiving an excellent response from visitors. Meanwhile, a representative of a Mumbai-based company said that their Ayurvedic products are selling well, with particularly strong interest in their “Cool Lip” product.

Overall, this Ayurveda Mahotsav in Panchkula is not only spreading awareness about the scientific foundation of Ayurveda among the masses, but is also instilling renewed trust and awareness in natural healthcare practices.

Chandigarh, December 13- Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday formally inaugurated the ground floor of Panchnad Sadan, constructed by the Panchnad Sewa Trust in Fatehabad. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the occasion marked not merely the inauguration of a building, but stood as a symbol of collective memory, an unbroken cultural legacy and a heartfelt tribute to lakhs of people who made supreme sacrifices for the nation.

Congratulating citizens, trust office-bearers and volunteers on the historic occasion, the Chief Minister announced a grant of Rs. 31 lakh for the Panchnad Sewa Trust. Cabinet Minister, Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi, and Hansi MLA, Sh. Vinod Bhayana was also present at the event.

Recalling the journey of the project, the Chief Minister said the foundation stone of Panchnad Sadan was laid on December 13, 2020, by the then Chief Minister and present Union Minister, Sh Manohar Lal. Within five years, the structure has taken the shape of a grand and inspiring institution, reflecting the dedication, commitment and tireless efforts of the trust’s office-bearers and volunteers. He said every individual associated with the completion of this project deserves appreciation.

Explaining the historical significance of Panchnad, the Chief Minister said the term holds a special place in the collective consciousness of people. Panchnad refers to the land of five rivers—Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Chenab and Jhelum—which nourished this region for centuries and helped create one of the world’s oldest, richest and most vibrant civilisations. Over time, this region came to be known as Punjab, literally meaning the land of five waters.

He said the Panchnad region has historically been a cradle of multiple faiths and cultures, all of which flourished together in harmony. Its traditions of brotherhood, hospitality and hard work gained global recognition. However, history also carries chapters of immense pain and suffering.

Referring to the Partition of 1947, the Chief Minister said this very land witnessed one of the most horrific human tragedies in world history. In a single night, lakhs lost their lives, homes, property and future. A civilisation and culture were brutally torn apart. He said the purpose of Panchnad Sadan is to preserve this history so that future generations never forget the tragedy of Partition and understand the enduring importance of national unity.

He said that the Punjabi community bore immense suffering during Partition, with crores of people forced to migrate across newly drawn borders. Lakhs were killed and countless families were devastated, affecting children, the elderly, women and youth alike. Despite this, the Punjabi society rejected hatred and violence, and instead chose hard work, patriotism and brotherhood, contributing significantly to nation-building.

The Chief Minister emphasised that Panchnad is not a caste, but a culture and a movement. Wherever the Punjabi community has settled, it has blended seamlessly and played a vital role in economic, social and cultural development. Today, Punjabis are known across the country for their diligence, honesty and dedication.

The Chief Minister appreciated the efforts of the Panchnad Smarak Trust and said that since its inception, the trust has undertaken organised, sensitive and heartfelt initiatives to keep the memories of ancestors alive. He said Panchnad Sadan is not merely a structure of bricks and mortar, but a centre that will connect hearts, provide solace to souls and empower the future by learning from history. The initiative, he added, goes beyond remembrance and seeks to transform the pain of Partition into positive energy through education, health and cultural engagement.

Assuring full support, the Chief Minister said the Haryana government will stand shoulder to shoulder with the Panchnad Sewa Trust in preserving and promoting Panchnad culture and in passing on the history of Partition to future generations. He expressed confidence that Panchnad Sadan would emerge as a source of inspiration not only for Haryana but for the entire country, strengthening national unity, social harmony and cultural heritage.

Rajya Sabha, MP Sh. Subhash Barala, former MP, Smt. Sunita Duggal and former MLA, Sh. Dura Ram also addressed the gathering.

Panchnad Sewa Trust patron Bhimsen and several other dignitaries remained present during the event.

Chandigarh, November 13- Haryana Cooperation Minister, Dr Arvind Sharma said that the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, is working in the spirit of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s Antyodaya philosophy to ensure dignity, respect and upliftment of every community. He said the government is translating Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas into action on the ground.

Dr. Sharma was addressing the gathering as Chief Guest at the 42nd foundation day programme of Paragana-52 at Shri Sain Bhagat Dharamshala, Uttam Nagar, Gohana.

He said Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini accords equal respect to all communities and is consistently implementing people-centric welfare schemes for their empowerment. Highlighting the government’s efforts to honour saints and social reformers, Dr. Sharma said their birth anniversaries are now being celebrated at the state level to take their ideals to the masses. Calling upon members of the Sain community, he said that under Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s leadership, the government is promoting skill development among youth, not only to make them self-reliant but also to provide opportunities for self-employment.

Referring to welfare initiatives, Dr Sharma said that the second phase of the Antyodaya Parivar Utthan Yojana was recently launched by Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini from Sonipat. Through the organisation of Antyodaya Melas at the Assembly constituency level, the government is creating opportunities for poor families to access self-employment avenues and easy loans, which people should actively avail themselves of.

Emphasising the importance of education, the Minister said that children are the greatest asset of poor families, and therefore priority must be given to their education while motivating them to work hard and excel. On the occasion, he announced a grant of Rs. 21 lakh from his discretionary fund for development works at the Sain Bhagat Dharamshala. He also announced an additional Rs. 5 lakh for the establishment of a library at the dharamshala.

Chandigarh, December 13- Haryana Urban Local Bodies Minister, Sh. Vipul Goel on Saturday said that Old Faridabad is not just a geographical area for him but his home, where he grew up and this deepens his responsibility towards ensuring the area’s comprehensive development.

Sh. Vipul Goel was speaking after inaugurating the reconstruction work of the Maharshi Valmiki Community Hall and the RMC road construction project at Bassa Pada in Faridabad.

Sh. Goel said that construction of the long-pending community hall at the Valmiki Temple complex has now commenced at an estimated cost of Rs. 52.5 lakh. He assured that if additional funds are required in the future, the government will make the necessary provisions to ensure that residents get a modern, well-equipped and functional community facility. Alongside this, work has also begun on paving several lanes in Old Faridabad. Two major street development projects, costing Rs. 18.5 lakh and Rs. 22.5 lakh respectively, are part of this initiative, which will ease movement for residents and strengthen local infrastructure.

Expressing confidence, the Minister said the coming year would be extremely significant for Old Faridabad from a development perspective. Whether it is the proposed new hospital in the grain market area, establishment of new schools, improved water and power supply, or converting existing kutcha roads into pucca roads, the government will work swiftly on all fronts. He also announced the revival of the historic Barahi Talab (pond) in Old Faridabad.

Sh. Goel said that the area has a limited number of parks, and therefore existing parks will be upgraded to make them more attractive and functional. He added that the parking facility developed at the new vegetable market will be made operational within the next one to two months to streamline traffic movement. He further informed that foundation stones for the construction of bathing facilities and modern public toilets in the market area will be laid soon to benefit traders and the general public.

Chandigarh, December 13- Union Minister of State for Statistics, Programme Implementation and Planning, Rao Inderjit Singh, on Saturday reviewed the progress of the under-construction All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Majra village in Rewari district. During the inspection, the Union Minister directed officers to ensure that the Outpatient Department (OPD) at AIIMS is made operational by March 2026, in line with the prescribed guidelines.

Rao Inderjit Singh directed the AIIMS authorities and the executing agency to complete the construction work with high quality standards, stressing that the early start of OPD services would provide significant relief to residents of Rewari district and adjoining areas. He also directed that the remaining construction activities be expedited and that faculty-related arrangements be completed well in time.The Union Minister further directed that medical classes should commence from the next academic session.

During the inspection, he also reviewed the proposed construction of a railway overbridge (ROB) over the railway line and directed officers to initiate the work at the earliest. He inspected the OPD building along with the entire under-construction AIIMS campus.

AIIMS coming up on 210 acres

Director, AIIMS, Dr. D.N. Sharma informed the Union Minister that construction of the 750-bed AIIMS at Majra is progressing at a rapid pace. Being developed over 210 acres at an estimated cost of around Rs. 1,700 crore, the institute will be equipped with all facilities available at other AIIMS across the country. He further said that medical classes at Majra AIIMS are proposed to begin from the June–July 2026 academic session. As per existing norms, the institute will initially offer 50 MBBS seats, which will later be increased to 100.

Chandigarh, December 13 – Haryana’s Energy, Transport, and Labour Minister Anil Vij launched a sharp counterattack on Congress leader Randeep Surjewala’s tweet claiming that Haryana is in the hands of mafias and gangs while the government sits idle. Sh. Vij said that the Haryana government is running a massive campaign against criminals.

Speaking to media persons today, he said that the DGP has repeatedly provided figures, and nearly 5,000 anti-social elements have been apprehended.Minister Anil Vij remarked whether Surjewala can’t see these figures, doesn’t know how to read them, or fails to notice the continuous actions being taken by the government.

Chandigarh, December 13, 2025

The Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, today presided over and delivered the convocation address at the 73rd Convocation of Panjab University (PU), Chandigarh. Medals, prizes and degrees to the PU students passing examinations in 2025 were awarded at the convocation.

During the convocation, Doctor of Science Honoris Causa degrees were conferred upon Prof. K.N. Pathak and Dr Vijay P. Bhatkar, while Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel was conferred the Doctor of Laws. The PU Vigyan Ratna Award was presented to Prof. Pradeep Thalappil, the PU Khel Ratna Award was conferred upon Sarabjot Singh, and the PU Sahitya Ratna Award was presented to Amarjit Grewal.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, appreciated the achievements of the graduating students and awardees. “The fact that nearly 75 per cent of graduating students today are women is a powerful reflection of women empowerment through education.” He further linked it to the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for increasing women’s participation in higher education.

Appreciating Panjab University’s number of achievements in national and international rankings, the Governor said that while the University has a strong national standing, it also has the potential to emerge as a globally leading institution.

Mentioning the illustrious alumni of the University like former Prime Ministers Dr Manmohan Singh and Shri I.K. Gujral, former President Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma, Olympian Neeraj Chopra, cricketer Kapil Dev, Nobel laureate Dr Har Gobind Khorana, actors Anupam Kher and Kirron Kher, and former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, he said their achievements continue to inspire future generations.

Referring to the conferment of 350 PhDs in a span of less than a year, the Governor described the achievement as a testament to the dedication of students, parents and faculty members.

In her address, the PU Vice-Chancellor Prof Renu Vig said that Panjab University continues to strengthen its academic and research profile in alignment with national priorities. Highlighting recent achievements, she mentioned 33 patents, major research grants, expansion of national and international collaborations, strong alumni support, and an impressive performance at the Khelo India 2025 events.

Earlier, the ceremony commenced with a group photograph of gold medallists, followed by the donning of robes by dignitaries and an academic procession led by the Vice-Chancellor, Deans of University Instruction and senior functionaries.

The Education Minister of Punjab, Shri Harjot Singh Bains, DUI Prof. Yojna Rawat, PU Registrar Prof. Y.P. Verma, along with senior officers of the University, faculty members, students and their family members, were also present on the occasion.

Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, an alumnus of Panjab University, said Panjab University is a leading university in the nation, noting that it has produced distinguished professionals across fields.

Receiving the Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa), Indian computer scientist Dr Vijay P. Bhatkar said, “I have never worked for ranks or prizes, but I understand that performance is integral,” reflecting on his lifelong contribution to national supercomputing, digital inclusion and institution-building.

Prof K.N. Pathak, former PU Vice-Chancellor, who was also conferred the Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa), recalled his long association with the university, saying, “I have been associated with Panjab University since the 1970s, starting as a Reader and later serving as Professor, Dean and Vice-Chancellor. Physics remains one of the strongest departments with a distinguished faculty.”

Former Supreme Court judge Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, who was conferred the Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa), described the honour as deeply personal, stating, “I am fortunate to receive an Honoris Causa degree from Panjab University. I have a 50-year association with PU, having pursued my education here. I am proud to belong to PU and believe there is no comparable university to PU in the world.”

Vigyan Ratna awardee Prof Pradeep Thalappil, Padma Shri recipient and IIT Madras professor, emphasised the role of education in nation-building, saying, “The Viksit Bharat 2047 vision and the future of Panjab University are integrally linked to education, which remains the core of development.”

Khel Ratna awardee and Olympic medallist Sarabjot Singh credited the university for his journey, saying, “Panjab University has supported me since 2018 through my UG, PG and diploma, including managing exam clashes. I hope more athletes join PU and bring laurels to the university.”

Sahitya Ratna recipient Amarjit Grewal highlighted the university’s cultural significance, remarking, “True recognition lies in creativity itself, and universities must encourage dialogue among different disciplines.”

Chandigarh, December 13, 2025

Vice President of India and Chancellor of Panjab University (PU), Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan, today said that PU’s 143-year legacy continues to strengthen the standards of education in the country.

Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan was addressing the 73rd Convocation of Panjab University via a video message.

Referring to the institution’s long academic journey, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan said, “The fact that this is the 73rd Convocation itself shows that Panjab University is one of the most historic and distinguished universities.” He noted that the university has produced Prime Ministers (PMs), PM of a neighbouring country, Governors, Chief Justices, Members of Parliament, sportspersons and scientists who proudly call it their alma mater.

Highlighting the university’s global outlook, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan said that Panjab University’s vision and mission are “forward-looking, globally oriented and internationally relevant.” He added that these aspirations are firmly grounded in the Institutional Development Plan 2025 and the National Education Policy 2020, noting that “it is because of this vision that PU has published 11,000 research papers in the past five years,” contributing to the national goal of Viksit Bharat 2047 under PM Shri Narendra Modi.

Congratulating students and honourees, Vice President Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan said the convocation marked an important milestone not only for graduates but also for their parents, teachers and friends, stating that “this day belongs to you and to all those who inspired and encouraged you under this institution which shaped you.” He also referred to the conferment of Honoris Causa degrees on distinguished individuals during the ceremony.

Addressing the graduating students, the Vice President said they were completing their education at a time of unprecedented global change, remarking that “Bharat is no longer only an adopter of technology; we are emerging as creators of technology.” Referring to PM Shri Narendra Modi’s initiatives such as Digital India, Startup India and Make in India, he said these programmes have made the entrepreneurial ecosystem more vibrant and urged students to shape the next wave of innovation and sustainable development.

Emphasising self-reliance, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan called upon students to pursue innovation rooted in Indian knowledge systems, asserting that “true Atmanirbharta comes when our innovation reflects national identity and serves our people.” He also advised graduates to stay away from drugs, be mindful of social media usage, and remember that “your degree is not the end goal but the beginning of new responsibilities,” wishing the batch of 2025 a successful and meaningful future.