Category Archives: Chandigarh

Chandigarh, Chandigarh, Haryana

Prosight Eye Hospital Promises Pioneering AI, Robotics & SMART Lasers for Next-Gen Eye Care

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Chandigarh, February 9, 2025: Prosight Eye Hospital, a state-of-the-art eye hospital pioneering AI, Robotics, and SMART Lasers was inaugurated at Sector 43, here today. The opening was attended by distinguished guests, medical directors, ophthalmic fraternity, prominent citizens, and community stakeholders.

Prosight Eye Hospital Chandigarh is a fully integrated gen-next innovative eye hospital, combining artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, SMART lasers, and precision diagnostics to deliver world-class treatments. Designed as a patient-centric eye care facility, the hospital prioritizes diagnostic accuracy, patient comfort, and tech innovations, positioning itself as the region’s most advanced destination for eye care.

Dr. SPS Oberoi, renowned philanthropist & Managing Trustee Sharbat Da Bhalla Trust was the Chief Guest. Dr. (Col) Rajinder Singh, a prominent social worker, Reformer & Educationist, was the Guest of Honour.

Board of Directors of the Fusion Care Eye Hospital (The parent body of Prosight Eye Hospital Chandigarh), who were present on the occasion included, Dr. Kashish Gupta, Dr Manpreet Singh, and Dr Sanjeev Duggal.

Dr. Sheetal Brar, Medical Director & Chief Surgeon (Prosight Eye Hospital Chandigarh), said Prosight Eye Hospital Chandigarh will offer eye treatments grounded in global research and tailored to individual patient vision needs with proven research and clinical trials. It is the first in Chandigarh to offer this minimally invasive, pain-free laser technology for refractive errors, ensuring rapid & reliable vision recovery.

“The hospital has globally awarded eye super specialists & Eye Surgeons with established professional credentials & repute. Ultra-Modern Eye diagnostic suites with AI algorithms to accurately analyse and predict eye conditions with unmatched accuracy are some of the highlights of treatment being offered in the hospital”, she said.

Dr. Sheetal said, “Robotic-assisted surgeries would have FLACS technology from Ziemer with Enhanced precision in cataract removals & IOL implants, besides IoT-enabled systems streamline patient flow, while paperless records and virtual consultations enhance accessibility.”

“The hospital promises affordable eye care by offering most competitive pricing in Laser vision corrections to bring quality eye care within reach of large segments of Chandigarh Tricity population”, she added.

As a part of its CSR initiative, Prosight will host a series of free eye screening camps across the Chandigarh region through February and March, emphasizing early detection of preventable blindness. The hospital offers a limited period of discounted services on its premium laser surgeries, such as SMILE pro & FLACS robotic cataract treatments.

Visit  Prosight Eye Hospital Chandigarh

The hospital is located in Sector 43B Chandigarh and is now open to Eye patients.

Website  www.prosighteyehospital.com             Email: media@prosighteyehospital.com

Hospital Address: SCO 146, 43B, Sector 43, Chandigarh, 160043

Media Liaison:                    911 5900 810

Hospital Contact Number:  911 5900 661

Hospital Helpline Number: 911 51 00 841

Chandigarh, Chandigarh, Punjab

PUNJAB GOVERNOR SH. GULAB CHAND KATARIA HOSTS ‘AT HOME’ RECEPTION ON 76TH REPUBLIC DAY

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CHANDIGARH, JANUARY 26:

The annual ‘At Home’ reception hosted by the Punjab Governor and Administrator, Union Territory, Chandigarh, Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria, on the occasion of India’s 76th Republic Day, was a celebration of the nation’s unity in diversity.

The event at Punjab Raj Bhavan, Chandigarh, was a tribute to the nation’s achievements and aspirations as it continues its journey of progress and development.

The Punjab Raj Bhavan was exquisitely decorated with tricolor-themed lighting and floral arrangements, creating a patriotic ambiance. The Governor personally greeted and interacted with every guest, fostering a spirit of inclusiveness and camaraderie.

A mesmerizing cultural program presented by the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC) captivated the audience with traditional dances and musical performances, celebrating the rich heritage of North India. The vibrant performances added grandeur to the evening and were met with immense applause from the guests.

The event was graced by several eminent dignitaries, including Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court, Sh. Sheel Nagu, Sh. Satya Pal Jain Additional Solicitor General of India,Punjab Cabinet Minister Sh. Mohinder Bhagat, Member of Parliament Sh. Vikramjit Singh Sawhney, Member of Parliament Sh. Manish Tewari, Member of Parliament Sh. Satnam Singh Sandhu, Mayor Chandigarh,Sh Kuldeep Kumar,Chief Secretary Chandigarh Sh. Rajeev Verma,Sh. Diprava Lakra ,Finance Secretary, Chandigarh,Director General of Punjab a Police Gaurav Yadav, DGP Chandigarh Sh.Surendra Singh Yadav,  former Chief of Army Staff General V.P. Malik and GOC Western Command,Sh.Manoj Kumar Katiyar. Their presence further elevated the significance of the celebration, underscoring the collective commitment to the nation’s progress.

Chandigarh, Chandigarh

Fortis Mohali holds Cervical Cancer Awareness Initiative for School Children

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Chandigarh, January 21

Fortis Hospital Mohali, today organised the grand finale of ‘Illustrate to Eliminate’, a cervical cancer awareness initiative at the Rose Garden Underpass, Sector 17. As part of this initiative, Fortis Hospital Mohali organised a poster-making and slogan-writing competition for students across the Tricity schools. The winning artworks have been exhibited at the Rose Garden Underpass in Chandigarh from January 21st to 26th, 2025.

The winners in different categories were; Mannan Kaur Cheema of Sacred Heart Senior Secondary School, Chandigarh in Poster Making (Class 9 and above); Nehmat of Shemrock Senior Secondary School, Mohali in Poster Making (Class 7 and 8); Nikita of DAV Mohali in Slogan Writing Competition.

As January is being observed as the Cervical Cancer Awareness month across the world, to mark the same, Fortis Hospital Mohali conducted the awareness drive to educate people about the importance of timely HPV Vaccination and regular screening to prevent Cervical Cancer in women.

An awareness session led by Dr Shweta Tahlan, Consultant, Gynae Onco-Surgery, Fortis Hospital Mohali, was also organized in the Amphitheatre during which all the winners and participants were felicitated.

Emphasizing on early detection of cervical cancer, Dr Tahlan, said, “Every woman should be careful enough to notice any unusual changes in her body and seek a consult immediately. Early stage of cervical cancer may not produce any symptoms. However, symptoms may include postcoital or intermenstrual vaginal bleeding, irregular periods, postmenopausal bleeding, persistent or foul-smelling vaginal discharge and pelvic pain. Early cervical cancer can be treated through surgery alone, and one may avoid undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Imaging such as CT scan, MRI or PET-CT as per requirement, besides tissue biopsy is done while managing a patient with cancer.

Dr Tahlan further highlighted the importance of HPV vaccination in beating cervical cancer. “The ideal age for vaccination of girls is 9-14 years of age, though the catch-up vaccination can be done till 26 years of age. Vaccination done in childhood or adolescence helps to prevent against cervical cancer in later years of life.”  Cervical cancer is a preventable cancer. Doing both things together – HPV vaccination for young girls and cervical screening for every woman above 25-30 years – can prevent majority of cervical cancers. Together we should work on its elimination on goals given by WHO, she added.


About Fortis Healthcare

Fortis Healthcare Limited – an IHH Healthcare Berhad Company – is a leading integrated healthcare services provider in India. It is one of the largest healthcare organizations in the country with 27 healthcare facilities (including projects under development), 4100 operational beds and over 419 diagnostics centres (including JVs). Fortis is present in India, United Arab Emirates (UAE) & Sri Lanka. The Company is listed on the BSE Ltd and National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India. It draws strength from its partnership with global major and parent company, IHH, to build upon its culture of world-class patient care and superlative clinical excellence. Fortis employs 23,000 people (including SRL) who share its vision of becoming the world’s most trusted healthcare network. Fortis offers a full spectrum of integrated healthcare services ranging from clinics to quaternary care facilities and a wide range of ancillary services.

Chandigarh, Chandigarh

MCC decides to implement No work No pay against striking Door to Door waste collectors

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Chandigarh, December 30

Taking strict note of Door to Door waste collectors joining strike, the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh has decided to implement the principle of ‘No work No Pay’. Accordingly, the Door to Door waste collectors who have participated in strike, their wages/ payment will be deducted for the days they will remain on strike including those who were on strike on 21.12.2024. 

Passing these orders here today, Municipal Commissioner Sh. Amit Kumar, IAS said that reportedly a section of Door to Door waste collectors have proceeded on strike, causing disruption to the essential services provided by the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh. Despite repeated appeals to return to work, the strike continues.

He said that the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh is committed to ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of essential services to the citizens. Alternative arrangements are being made to maintain the continuity of services.

Making an appeal to the striking employees, the Commissioner, asked them to reconsider their decision and return to work immediately. The Municipal Corporation Chandigarh is willing to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the issues, but the strike must be called off first, he said.

The Commissioner appealed to the citizens of Chandigarh to hand over their waste separately directly in the waste collection vehicles till the strike is over.

Chandigarh, Chandigarh, Haryana

Milkfed further strengthens due to strenuous efforts of CM

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Chandigarh, December 28

Under the visionary leadership of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann leading cooperative of the state-Milkfed further got strengthened during the year 2024.

The massive efforts of state government to give remunerative price to milk producers, expansion of Verka mill plants and launch of new products strengthened the Milkfed. The Chief Minister, who is holds the portfolio of Cooperation, has sanctioned big ticket projects to Milkfed to supplement the income of farmers through milk production on one hand and to make dairy farming a profitable venture on the other. For bailing out the milk producers the state government has enhanced fat per kilogram in milk to Rs 25 during April 1 to October 31.

At present the milk was being purchased at Rs 840 per kg fat and at present there were 6000 cooperative societies in state which have five lakh milk producers registered with them. The Chief Minister has also dedicated an ultra odern Verka Dairy milk plant at Ludhiana with capacity to process nine lakh litre milk daily. This plant also has capacity of catering 10 metric ton butter.

Likewise the Chief Minister has also dedicated upgraded Ferozepur milk plant to the masses with the capacity of processing and packaging one lakh litre milk daily. Bhagwant Singh Mann has also taken an important initiative to expand units involved in milk processing. The Chief Minister has also dedicated ultra odern project at Jalandhar for processing and packaging of fermented products.   

The Chief Minister has made every effort to supplement the income of farmers by augmenting the infrastructure for sale and supply of milk. Milkfed had registered an increase of 9.5% by purchasing more than 20 lakh litres milk daily. In this year only Milkfed also started the sale of sugar free kheer, milk cake and other products on demand of people. Despite of strict competition the Milkfed sold 12.66 lakh litre packets of milk which was 5% more than last year when 12.01 lakh litre of milk was sold.

Chandigarh, Chandigarh, Haryana

Bhagwant Mann government provided Loan Relief worth Rs 368 Crore to Defaulters of Cooperative Banks Under the OTS Scheme

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Chandigarh, December 29

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government has taken significant steps in 2024 to strengthen the cooperative sector. These initiatives include providing loan relief to defaulter borrowers, upgrading cooperative banks, addressing storage issues through new warehouse construction, and supporting Punjab’s cultural heritage.

A spokesperson for the Chief Minister’s Office stated that the Chief Minister, who also looking after the Cooperation Department, introduced a One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme for defaulter borrowers of cooperative banks in 2023. Under this scheme, loan relief of ₹368 crore has been provided to 8,453 defaulters during the financial year 2024-25, with a resolution of loans amounting to ₹150 crore. The scheme will remain operational until February 28, 2025. Punjab has a vast network of 20 Central Cooperative Banks with 803 branches linked to 3,523 Primary Agriculture Societies, supporting over 10.45 lakh farmers. To enhance services, Punjab State Cooperative Bank and Central Cooperative Banks are being upgraded at a cost of ₹160 crore, with the project expected to be completed by June 30, 2025.

The spokesperson further stated that to address storage issues, Markfed has initiated a project to construct new warehouses with a combined capacity of 44,910 metric tons. In 2024, construction of warehouses with a capacity of 25,810 metric tons at three locations has already begun, scheduled for completion by November 30, 2025. An additional 19,100 metric tons of warehouse capacity will soon be constructed. Notably, in the first phase, 79,000 metric tons of the targeted 1.24 lakh metric tons capacity warehouses have already been built, with the remaining 44,910 metric tons of work initiated this year.

To promote Punjab’s cultural symbol, ‘Phulkari,’ Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has directed Markfed to take special measures to extend its reach both domestically and internationally. Collaborating with the National Institute of Fashion Designing (NIFD), New Delhi, Markfed is providing financial assistance and specialized training to artisans. This initiative aims to revive and celebrate the uniqueness of the traditional Phulkari craft, enhance artisans incomes, and ensure customers receive high-quality products at reasonable prices.

Chandigarh, Chandigarh, Haryana

Punjab water resources department achieves major milestones in water infrastructure

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Chandigarh, December 29:

Punjab Water Resources Department has achieved unprecedented milestones in strengthening state’s water infrastructure and ensuring equitable water distribution to the farmers of the state.

Disclosing this here, Water Resources Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal said that In a landmark achievement, department has successfully executed development projects worth over Rs.2100 crores up till the last of the 2024, which included comprehensive canal lining, repairs and water course rehabilitation. This extensive work has significantly improved water availability to the tail-end farmers, fulfilling the commitment to equitable water distribution, he added.

One of the most significant accomplishments of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led government has been addressing the chronic issue of water logging through the relining of Sirhind Feeder. Out of total project cost of Rs.671.478 crores, the department has completed approximately 89.61 kilometers of relining works, amounting to Rs.543.43 crores. This intervention has been crucial in mitigating waterlogging issues that have long plagued agricultural lands, said the Cabinet Minister.

He said that statewide water courses restoration drive has also yielded remarkable results. The department has successfully revitalized 15947 water courses that had been non-functional for two to three decades. This initiative has brought canal water for irrigation to more than 950 villages for the first time in their history.

“In a progressive policy shift, we removed the 25-year restriction on water course repairs, enabling our field officers to undertake immediate restoration works, said the Water Resources Minister, adding that through effective convergence of MGNREGA and state funds, the state has rehabilitated over 909 water courses, spanning more than 700 kilometers in just two years.

Sh. Goyal said that historic transformative initiative of construction of Malwa Canal project will revolutionize irrigation in the Malwa region. This 150-kilometer canal, with an investment of Rs.2300 crores, will irrigate approximately two lakh acres across five districts – Bathinda, Faridkot, Fazilka, Ferozepur and Sri Muktsar Sahib. Besides this, three new canals are under construction in Pathankot district, bringing surface water to this region for the first time.

Mann government’s commitment to groundwater conservation has led to the revival of 30 defunct groundwater recharge structures, with 129 more sites nearing completion. The department has completed boring at 128 water recharge sites and 60 new sites have been identified for future development.

He said that in the direction of digital transformation, the state has launched E-Sinchai, a comprehensive mobile application for farmer services, including Warabandi and Chakbandi. The Punjab Canal and Regulation Information System, another digital initiative, provides real-time monitoring of canal discharges and brings unprecedented transparency to water distribution.

To streamline administrative processes, the Cabinet Minister said, we have developed an online portal for NOC services related to lands near water bodies, significantly reducing processing times. Through process re-engineering and digitization, the department has achieved a remarkable 60-70% reduction in application processing time.

Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab

Event on ‘Seafarers’ Rights and Employment’ Held

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Chandigarh: The Deputy Director General of Shipping, Captain Dr. Daniel Joseph, from the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), has assured the protection of the rights of merchant navy seafarers. Speaking as the chief guest at an event on the topic “Seafarers’ Rights and Employment,” organized at the Tagore Theatre Auditorium in Chandigarh on Friday, Dr. Joseph stated that now seafarers from Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh will find it easier to bring their concerns and rights to the government’s attention. A significant initiative under the leadership of Captain Sanjay Parashar has been launched in Chandigarh, which is expected to yield positive results in the near future. During the program, seafarers raised their issues on an open platform.

While interacting with the seafarers present at the event, Captain Dr. Daniel Joseph emphasized that protecting the rights of Indian merchant navy seafarers is a top priority for DG Shipping. He highlighted that seafarers from Punjab and neighboring states often had to depend on offices in Mumbai or Delhi to voice their concerns. This process was both lengthy and complex. Additionally, many seafarers lack sufficient information about online procedures, leading to situations where they miss out on their rightful entitlements. Dr. Joseph assured that the government is committed to addressing the concerns of seafarers seriously and providing resolutions. This new initiative will give seafarers an opportunity to present their problems effectively, thanks to the extensive efforts of Sanjay Parashar, who has been working for the welfare of maritime seafarers for over two and a half decades. Parashar has even helped rescue seafarers and save lives in critical situations. Dr. Joseph further stated that he will take all necessary measures to improve the condition of seafarers and ensure they receive proper respect.

Active Support from the Directorate General of Shipping
Captain Joseph also highlighted that the Directorate General of Shipping has taken the issues of seafarers seriously and has been coordinating with various government departments to resolve their problems. He assured that better policies and programs will be developed in the coming days to enhance the quality of work and life for seafarers. Efforts will have to be made collectively. It was stated that considering the dangers and challenges arising during sea voyages, prioritizing the safety of sailors is extremely necessary. Even today, 81 Indian sailors are imprisoned in foreign jails. It was suggested that emphasis should be placed on implementing modern technology and providing a swift justice system for sailors. Additionally, the use of the latest safety measures should be ensured so that sailors receive better protection.

Seafarers Shared Their Issues
Seafarers from various regions of North India participated in the program and shared their difficulties. They reported instances of unfair treatment. In Punjab and neighboring states, exploitation by fraudulent agents is a significant issue, particularly in rural areas where young men seeking jobs in the merchant navy are often scammed. These fraudulent companies not only exploit the dreams of the youth but also rob their families of their hard-earned money. The seafarers stressed the need for strict action against such entities and called for immediate measures to curb these practices.

They also demanded improved working conditions, enhanced safety measures while working at sea, and expanded healthcare facilities for long-term support. Additionally, they emphasized the need for more training and development opportunities to further enhance their professional skills.

Captain Sanjay Parashar’s Initiative
The event was organized under the leadership of Captain Sanjay Parashar, who has consistently worked on issues related to the rights and employment of merchant navy seafarers. Captain Parashar stated that the program provides a platform for seafarers to raise their concerns effectively. He described this initiative as a new beginning that will help bring positive changes for the benefit of seafarers. The event sent a positive message to the merchant navy seafarers that their rights will be protected, and their problems will be resolved promptly. Seafarers now hope that the efforts of Captain Dr. Daniel Joseph and Captain Sanjay Parashar will make their concerns a government priority, ensuring better working and living conditions for them.