SANGRUR; 30th April 2026:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday dedicated an ultra-modern Community Health Centre in Sangrur, marking a major expansion of rural healthcare infrastructure that will benefit residents of 85 villages. Equipped with round-the-clock emergency services, surgical facilities, treatment for serious illnesses and specialist care for children, the 30-bed hospital in Kauharia village stands as a long-overdue intervention, coming nearly 80 years after Independence.

Highlighting how earlier governments neglected regions like Dirba and kept development restricted to a few, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted that his government is reversing this legacy by investing public money back into villages through hospitals, schools, libraries and roads.

Addressing a press conference, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “In order to impart quality health services to people, we have dedicated the Community Health Centre at village Kauhrian.” He added, “This ambitious project has been completed at a cost of ₹13.23 crore and the centre has a capacity of 30 beds.” Highlighting its historical significance, he said, “After nearly 80 years of Independence, people of Kauharia village are celebrating getting their first 30-bed hospital.” Tracing its evolution, he noted, “This Community Health Centre was originally established in 1962 as a Primary Health Centre.”

Detailing the infrastructure, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The new Community Health Centre will have four OPDs (Outpatient Departments), one emergency block, two labour operation theatres, one minor operation theatre and two major operation theatres.” He further stated, “It will also have a nursing station, two general wards, one ultrasound room, one laboratory, one X-ray room, three doctor consultation rooms and other essential facilities.”

Highlighting its impact, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The new CHC will directly benefit the village population of 4,100 people.” He added, “Additionally, it will serve as a boon for 85 surrounding villages, providing healthcare services to around 35,000 people.”

Emphasising round-the-clock care, the Chief Minister said, “The centre will have 24×7 emergency healthcare services and doctors will be available for surgeries and treatment of serious illnesses.” He further noted, “The CHC will also have paediatric specialists for treating children’s diseases, and free treatment along with all necessary tests for mothers and children will be provided.”

Underlining affordability, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Patients will receive free X-ray, ECG and blood test facilities, and medicines will also be provided free of cost.” He added, “Cashless treatment will be available under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna at this CHC.”

Pointing to the government’s broader vision, he said, “This hospital should have been built years ago, but previous governments remained confined to their own families.” He added, “Our government will continue to return public money to people in the form of schools, libraries, hospitals and roads in villages.”

Expanding on specialised care, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Treatment for dental diseases will also be provided by a specialist dental doctor.” He further stated, “For de-addiction treatment, an OOAT Centre (Opioid Agonist Therapy Centre) will provide medicines and treatment for drug addiction patients.”

Reinforcing the government’s commitment, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “Previous governments kept the Dirba region backward; Bhagwant Mann Government has enhanced its dignity by providing a medical college and hospital.”

Highlighting the focus on universal healthcare, Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh said, “Bhagwant Mann Government is committed to the health of every Punjabi; allocating ₹2,000 crore for health insurance is the biggest proof.”

Chandigarh:

The Haryana Government is making continuous efforts at the global level to give new momentum to industrial development in the state. In this series of initiatives, a high-level delegation of the Haryana Government will visit Tanzania on July 5. These efforts will not only strengthen Haryana’s global identity but will also help attract capital investment. In addition, possibilities of trade and investment cooperation between Haryana and African countries in various sectors will also be explored.

A spokesperson of the department said that a Haryana Government delegation will undertake a seven-day visit to participate in the 50th Dar-es-Salaam International Trade Fair in Tanzania beginning July 5. A Haryana Pavilion will also be set up at the fair. The Department of Foreign Cooperation has been engaging with various stakeholders with the objective of making Haryana a hub of global investment through the “Go Global” approach. During the visit, representatives from the farming, trade, IT, and pharma sectors will participate and discussions will be held to enhance cooperation with Tanzania in these areas through agreements and collaborations.

It is noteworthy that Haryana has recorded an unprecedented growth of around 395 percent in exports, which is strong evidence of the state’s robust industrial policies and investment-friendly environment.

The spokesperson said that Haryana is no longer limited to being only a manufacturing centre, but has emerged as a strong export hub on the global trade map. Facilities such as “Export Booster” are being provided to exporters. The limit of Export Freight Subsidy Support has been increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 30 lakh per unit per year, which will significantly reduce export costs and enhance competitiveness. To connect the MSME sector with the global market, the “MSME Global Industries Matching Programme” is being launched to accelerate investment, employment generation, and other economic activities in the sector.

Chandigarh:

At the 39th Convocation of PGIMER held today, 682 graduates were conferred degrees across multiple medical disciplines, while 95 medals were awarded to meritorious students in recognition of their outstanding academic achievements, further reinforcing PGIMER’s enduring legacy of excellence in medical education, research, and patient care.

The prestigious ceremony was graced by Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Hon’ble Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India, as the Chief Guest. Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, attended as the Esteemed Guest, while Dr. Vinod K. Paul, Former Member, NITI Aayog, joined as the Guest of Honour. Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, and Prof. R.K. Ratho, Dean (Academics) also shared the dais with the dignitaries. .

Delivering the Convocation address, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda emphasized the need to combine technological advancement with compassion in medical practice as he stated, “Technology will shape the future of medicine, but compassion must remain the soul of healthcare. Artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and precision medicine can advance treatment, yet nothing can replace the healing power of human touch and empathy.”

Lauding PGIMER’s contribution to India’s healthcare ecosystem, the Hon’ble Minister remarked, “PGIMER continues to strengthen its position as a premier centre of medical education, patient care, and research excellence. With over 850 ongoing extramural research projects and more than 100 intramural projects, the institute reflects a strong culture of innovation, scientific inquiry, and evidence-based medicine.”

Highlighting India’s healthcare transformation, Shri Nadda noted, “A decade ago, India had only 387 medical colleges; today, that number has risen to 820. Undergraduate medical seats have increased from 51,000 to 1,26,000, with a target to add 75,000 more UG and PG seats in the next five years, of which 28,000 have already been added in the last two years. Similarly, postgraduate seats have grown significantly from 31,000 to 85,000, reflecting the remarkable transformation of India’s medical education landscape.”

Reflecting on the larger responsibility of doctors, the Hon’ble Minister  stated, “Medical education is not merely a personal achievement; it is a privilege nurtured by society and supported by the nation. Every young doctor must carry forward this responsibility with humility, compassion, and commitment to give back to society.”

The Hon’ble Minister, while reflecting on anecdotes from his own life, shared an important life lesson, stating, “Behind every successful doctor stands the silent sacrifice of parents, teachers, mentors, and countless individuals whose contributions shape a life of excellence. Staying grounded and grateful is the true mark of greatness.”

Concluding his address, Shri Nadda urged graduates to uphold institutional values, saying, “A medical degree is not merely an academic achievement; it is a lifelong responsibility towards humanity. Carry forward the values of compassion, ethics, humility and excellence that institutions like PGIMER have upheld for decades.”

Earlier, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, highlighted the institute’s achievements and national impact. Speaking on telemedicine, he stated, “Telemedicine, inaugurated by the Hon’ble Minister in 2016, has transformed healthcare accessibility, with PGIMER delivering over 40 lakh tele-consultations free of cost through eSanjeevani, reducing travel burden and improving specialist access for patients across the country.”

Apprising the gathering about PGIMER’s role in national service, the Director said, “During Operation Sindoor, PGIMER demonstrated its national responsibility through timely deployment of doctors and healthcare professionals, reaffirming that medical institutions are not only centres of healing but also pillars of national preparedness.”

Highlighting the impact of public welfare schemes, Prof. Lal stated, “Under Ayushman Bharat, nearly ₹650 crore has been utilized for patient care treating over 2.5 lakh patients till date, significantly reducing financial burden on families. Treatments costing ₹10–15 lakh elsewhere have become accessible at a fraction of the cost.”

On transplant excellence, he added, “PGIMER continues to lead the nation in transplant medicine, maintaining its position as number one in renal transplants while also emerging as a pioneering centre for simultaneous pancreatic and kidney transplantation.”

Emphasising academic outreach, the Director noted, “PGIMER remains the only institution in India transmitting all its academic sessions globally, connecting learners and alumni across countries including the United Kingdom and USA.”

Reiterating the institute’s patient-first philosophy, Prof. Lal said, “At PGIMER, the guiding principle remains simple yet profound—patient first, patient last. Every effort in research, academics, innovation, and clinical care is aligned towards patient welfare and strengthening trust in public healthcare.”

During the ceremony, degrees were conferred upon 61 PhD, 114 DM, 67 MCh, 323 MD, 103 MS, and 14 MDS graduates. The institute awarded 95 medals, including 18 Gold, 37 Silver, and 40 Bronze Medals.

Continuing PGIMER’s rich academic traditions, the convocation ceremony was marked by dignity and heritage, with graduating students adorned in traditional academic attire and ethnic wear, symbolising excellence, culture, and institutional pride.

The event was attended by distinguished dignitaries, professor emeritus, former directors, resident doctors, faculty members, department heads, key functionaries, and families of graduating students. The ceremony concluded with a formal vote of thanks proposed by Prof. R.K. Ratho, Dean (Academics).

The 39th Convocation concluded on a note of pride, inspiration, and optimism, reaffirming PGIMER’s enduring commitment to nation-building through excellence in healthcare, education, innovation, and service to humanity.

Mohali, April 29, 2026: Committed to safety, hygiene, purity of ingredients and healthy cooking mediums, Back To Source has unveiled a distinctive range of traditional Indian summer coolers and fermented probiotic beverages, to beat the scorching summer heat. The unique beverages were showcased at BTS’s Sector 66 outlet in Mohali’s Jubilee Junction.

Sharing details with the media, Puja Aggarwal, Founder Director, Back To Source and Operations Head Dhruv Ahluwalia, spotlighted the brand’s philosophy of clean, mindful eating rooted in natural and time-tested ingredients.

Puja Aggarwal said, “We have designed the beverages to counter the intense North Indian summer, the newly introduced drinks combine hydration, nutrition, and digestive benefits. The highlight offerings include the Gond Katira Almond Milk Cooler, Jowar Badam Milkshake, and Pineapple Tepache.”

Puja informed that the Gond Katira Almond Milk Cooler, is inspired by age-old Indian remedies, and uses soaked edible gum combined with fresh almond milk and natural sweeteners to deliver a cooling and nourishing experience. “Similarly, the Jowar Badam Milkshake blends millet-based milk with almonds to provide steady energy without heaviness, making it ideal for hot weather conditions. Pineapple Tepache, a lightly fermented beverage made using pineapple peels, adds a naturally fizzy and refreshing global touch to the unique summer cooler options,” added Puja.

While holding an informative session on the importance of gut-friendly and hydration-focused drinks in summers, Puja said, “Our focus has always been to go back to ingredients and practices that our bodies understand. With these summer coolers, we are reviving traditional wisdom like gond katira and millet-based drinks in a way that fits into today’s lifestyle. These beverages are not just refreshing but are designed to naturally cool the body, support hydration, and promote overall wellness during peak summers.”

Alongside beverages, Back To Source showcased a carefully curated summer menu featuring light, easily digestible, and nutrient-rich dishes. The offerings include fresh seasonal salads, barley salad, avocado chickpea salad, avocado toast, and lighter versions of popular items like pizza and kathi rolls. Chef-special additions such as kurkuri bhindi and faluda kulfi further enhance the seasonal appeal.

Speaking at the interaction, Dhruv Ahluwalia emphasized the importance of balance in summer dining. “We have consciously designed our menu to be gut-friendly and hydrating. From minimal oil usage to incorporating seasonal produce and natural ingredients, every dish is crafted to ensure it is light on the stomach while still being satisfying and flavorful. Our aim is to offer food that energizes rather than weighs you down,” he said.

Back To Source’s summer offerings also include refreshing beverages like Fresh Mango Mojito and Strawberry Mojito, complementing the newly launched drinks. However, the core focus remains on traditional and fermented beverages that deliver functional benefits such as improved digestion and enhanced hydration.

Highlighting the brand’s larger vision, Puja Aggarwal added, “At Back To Source, we believe food should be simple, real, and restorative. By bringing together traditional ingredients, fermentation techniques, and mindful preparation, we aim to restore trust in what we consume daily.”

The media interaction concluded with a tasting session, allowing attendees to experience the newly launched beverages and summer menu first-hand. The initiative reinforces Back To Source’s commitment to redefining everyday dining through a wellness-focused approach that blends tradition with contemporary preferences.

Chandigarh: The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh—an epitome of Excellence, Empathy & Equity—is set to host its XXXIX (39th) Convocation tomorrow, on April 30, 2026, at the Bhargava Auditorium, continuing its distinguished legacy since the first convocation held on March 27, 1970.

Sharing details of the upcoming convocation, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, stated that the landmark academic ceremony will witness the conferment of degrees to 682 graduates and 95 medals to meritorious students, marking a defining milestone in their journey of medical excellence and service. “This convocation is not merely an academic ceremony, but a celebration of knowledge, perseverance, and the spirit of national service,” he said.

The Director informed that the momentous occasion will be graced by Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Hon’ble Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India, as the esteemed Chief Guest. “A visionary leader who has played a pivotal role in strengthening accessible and affordable healthcare in India, his presence will greatly inspire our graduating students,” Prof. Lal noted.

Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, will grace the 39th Convocation of PGIMER as the Esteemed Guest. Known for his distinguished public service and commitment to education, healthcare, and social welfare, his presence adds dignity and significance to the occasion.

Prof. Lal further added that Dr. Vinod K. Paul, Former Member, NITI Aayog, will be present as the Guest of Honour, highlighting the importance of the occasion and his immense contributions to India’s public health ecosystem.

Detailing the academic achievements, Prof. Lal shared that a total of 682 candidates will be awarded degrees across disciplines, including 61 PhD, 114 DM, 67 MCh, 323 MD, 103 MS, and 14 MDS. In recognition of excellence, 95 medals will be conferred, comprising 18 Gold Medals, 37 Silver Medals, and 40 Bronze Medals, honouring outstanding performance across courses.

Reflecting on the institute’s journey, Prof. Lal remarked that since its establishment in 1962, PGIMER has evolved into an Institute of National Importance and a towering symbol of India’s public healthcare ethos. “PGIMER is a dham—where scale meets sensitivity, innovation meets inclusion, and every patient experience reflects a promise of healing, dignity, and hope.”

Highlighting the institute’s scale and service, Director PGIMER noted that PGIMER today caters to over 30 lakh OPD patients and more than one lakh admissions annually, supported by 160+ specialized and super-specialty clinics. “With advanced technologies such as robotic surgery, PET-CT, and AI-driven diagnostics, we continue to enhance precision, efficiency, and patient outcomes, while ensuring access to quality care for patients from remote and underserved regions,” he added.

Speaking on academic strength, Prof. Lal shared that PGIMER is offering a wide spectrum of postgraduate, super-specialty, and research programmes, including several exclusive DM/MCh courses, emphasizing the institute’s research leadership, noting ₹149 crore in extramural funding and nearly 1,000 ongoing research projects, translating innovation into impactful clinical outcomes across domains such as neurosurgery, diabetes care, neonatal medicine, and AI-enabled healthcare.

Reaffirming PGIMER’s commitment to equity, Prof. Lal stated that the institute has treated over 2 lakh beneficiaries under Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, supported by initiatives such as AMRIT pharmacies, Jan Aushadhi centres, other government schemes and the Poor Patient Welfare Fund. “Our focus remains on ensuring that no patient is denied care due to financial constraints,” he emphasized.

On digital health advancements, Prof. Lal highlighted that PGIMER’s telemedicine services have delivered over 40 lakh consultations, achieving nearly 98% patient satisfaction, and significantly expanding access to specialist care in remote regions.

Underscoring the human dimension of healthcare, the Director highlighted the SARATHI initiative, where over 2,000 volunteers have contributed 1.24 lakh hours, emerging as a powerful model of how compassion and structured volunteerism can enhance patient experience and hospital efficiency.

Director PGIMER also emphasized PGIMER’s readiness in times of national need, noting its contributions during Operation Sindoor and disaster responses such as the Kishtwar cloudburst. “Our teams have consistently demonstrated exceptional preparedness and humanitarian commitment,” he added.

On infrastructure expansion, Prof. Lal informed that PGIMER is undertaking transformative projects including the Advanced Neurosciences Centre, Advanced Mother & Child Centre, Clinical Care Block, Second phase of Advanced Eye Centre and satellite centres at Sangrur, Una and Ferozepur and other regions, aimed at bringing high-quality healthcare closer to communities.

Sharing a cultural aspect of the ceremony, Director PGIMER noted that ethnic wear will continue as the official dress code for the convocation, complemented by a specially designed PGIMER stole, symbolising a unique blend of heritage and academic achievement.

Concluding, Prof. Lal stated, “As we approach the 39th Convocation, PGIMER stands proud to celebrate not only our 95 medallists but also the 682 graduating healthcare professionals who will carry forward the values of excellence, compassion, and service. They are the torchbearers of a healthier, stronger nation.”

The convocation will bring together distinguished dignitaries, faculty, students, and families, marking a proud and defining moment in PGIMER’s continued journey of excellence, innovation, and nation-building through healthcare.

Chandigarh, April 28, 2026
A Gunvatta Yatra on “Promotion of ISO 15189 Accreditation in Clinical Laboratories” was organized by NABL, under the aegis of the Quality Council of India (QCI), in collaboration with the Department of Medical Microbiology, PGIMER, Chandigarh.
Chief Guest Digambar Behera, President, National Academy of Medical Sciences and former Dean, PGIMER, emphasized that reliable diagnostics are central to quality healthcare and highlighted accreditation as a continuous commitment to excellence and patient safety.
The event was convened by Dr. Vikas Gautam, who was instrumental in securing NABL accreditation for the Department of Medical Microbiology in 2014, while Dr. Abhishek Sharma and the QCI team coordinated the programme. It witnessed active participation from faculty and healthcare professionals across PGIMER and the tricity, reinforcing momentum towards accreditation in clinical laboratories.
The programme aimed to sensitize laboratory professionals on ISO 15189 accreditation and its role in ensuring accuracy, reliability, and global standards in diagnostics.
PGIMER, a leading tertiary care institute, continues to advance quality-assured diagnostics, with several NABL-accredited laboratories, including department of Medical Microbiology, Hematology and the HIV laboratory under Immunopathology, while others are in progress.

Chandigarh:

Department of Transfusion Medicine PGIMER and Thalassaemic Charitable Trust (TCT) PGIMER Chandigarh successfully organized its 332nd Blood Donation Camp on April 25, 2026. The camp aimed to ensure a continuous and adequate supply of blood for thalassaemic patients and other needy individuals.

Thalassaemic Charitable Trust (TCT) is a Charitable organisation formed in 1985 to look after Thalassaemics children by their parents with the support of PGIMER. TCT organizes regular Blood Donation Camps for thalassaemics and other serious needy patients.

Hon’ble 110 voluntary blood donors donated blood in this camp. Among them, two sisters, Ms. Namita and Ms. Sangeeta, made their first-ever blood donation, extending hope to thalassaemic patients. Their courageous act stands as a true inspiration, encouraging the younger generation to step forward and serve humanity.

All blood donors were honoured with certificates, badges, and tokens of appreciation in recognition of their noble contribution. TCT made comprehensive arrangements to ensure the comfort and convenience of donors. Additionally, a dedicated Thalassemia Awareness Desk was set up to educate participants about thalassaemia and highlight the importance of regular voluntary blood donation. On this occasion, the urgent need for regular voluntary blood donation was strongly emphasized and help save precious lives that depend on timely blood support.

Prof. (Dr.) R.R. Sharma, Head, Department of Transfusion Medicine, and Shri Rajinder Kalra, Member Secretary of the Trust, expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all voluntary blood donors. They also appreciated the dedicated efforts of the teams of the Department of Transfusion Medicine and TCT PGIMER for ensuring the smooth and successful conduct of the camp.

The next 333^rd Mega Blood Donation Camp will be organized on May 2, 2026, at Blood Donation Complex PGIMER, to commemorate International Thalassemia Day by PGIMER and TCT. Senior faculty members and Heads of various Departments of PGIMER are expected to grace the occasion. Dr.RR Sharma, HOD, Deptt. of Transfusion Medicine PGIMER and Executive Committee of Thalassaemic Charitable Trust earnestly appeals to all social organizations, voluntary blood donors and other religious/social communities to kindly donate blood for thalassaemics and other serious needy patients.