Chandigarh: In a simple ceremony held at the UT Police Headquarters, Sector 9, the official jersey for the fourth edition of the Allengers Gully Cricket Tournament was unveiled on Thursday. The event was graced by senior police & UTCA officials, tournament organizers, representatives from the UT Administration, Municipal Corporation and enthusiastic cricketers.
The unveiling was led by Sagar Preet Hooda (IPS), DGP, Chandigarh Police and Sanjay Tandon, Chairman, Gully Cricket Tournament also the Governing Council Member, WPL (BCCI) in the presence of Pushpender Kumar, IGP, Rajeev Ranjan, DIG, Sumer Partap, SSP Traffic and Security, Manjit Sheoran, IPS SP Hqrs, K.M. Priyanka SP City and others. The organizers emphasized the tournament’s role in promoting sportsmanship, fitness and community engagement among youth, while also steering them away from harmful habits such as drug abuse.
The newly launched jersey features a vibrant, bold design with the spirited tagline “Balla Ghumao, Nasha Bhagao”, creatively blending the excitement of cricket with a strong social message. The initiative highlights how sports can serve as a powerful tool for positive change.
Nayab Singh Saini, Chief Minister of Haryana and H. Rajesh Prasad, Chief Secretary, UT Chandigarh, set to inaugurate the tournament during the opening ceremony on April 17, 2026, at Sector 16 Cricket Stadium, Chandigarh. .
Jointly organized by UTCA and Chandigarh Police, the Gully Cricket Tournament has grown into a major sporting event of the calendar year. It enjoys robust support from the Municipal Corporation, Social Welfare Department, Sports Department, Education Department and Chandigarh Administration.
Speaking on the occasion, Sanjay Tandon, said, “This tournament is more than just a game. It’s a celebration of unity, teamwork and the undying love for cricket that binds our communities. We are thrilled to see the overwhelming response and look forward to an exciting season ahead.”
Present on the occasion includes former cricketer Reetinder Sodhi, DSP Vikas Sheokand, Ravinder Singh Bill, Co-Chairman, Gully Cricket, Saaransh Tandon, President, UTCA, Hari Singh Khurana Secretary, UTCA and other functionaries of Chandigarh Police and UTCA.
Panchkula: To mark World Health Day in a befitting manner, a unique fashion show was organised by Jia Diamonds to acknowledge the contributions made by medical researchers towards society. The event provided a platform for medical researchers from the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, to turn fashion models for the evening.
Speaking on the occasion, organiser of the fashion show,H C Goyal said, “This fashion show is not just about showcasing jewellery, but about paying a rich tribute to the medical fraternity on World Health Day. By bringing PGIMER researchers to do a fashion walk, we wanted to challenge conventional notions of beauty. These women represent strength, intelligence, and resilience, and deserve to be celebrated in every space—including fashion.”
The fashion show stood out for its distinctive concept—blending science with style—featuring four medical researchers from PGIMER Chandigarh alongside a professional model. Those who sashayed down the ramp included Tanisha Dimri and Poonam Kushan from the Department of Ophthalmology, PGIMER; and Ishneet and Megha from PGIMER’s Department of Dermatology. All of them are working as medical researchers at PGI.
The participation of medical researchers added a meaningful dimension to the event, symbolizing the balance between demanding professional roles and personal expression. Adding a special touch to the showcase, a 10-year-old girl , who walked in the fashion show as the showstopper.
The fashion show was designed in three rounds—bridal, designer evening wear, and casual styling—demonstrating how fine jewellery can seamlessly complement every facet of a modern woman’s life. The event witnessed the presence of prominent members of the tricity, including senior bureaucrats, political dignitaries, and retired defence personnel.
The show was brought to life by a creative team including makeup artist Anjali Shukla, stylist Sagar Pal, and designer Prashik Pushplata Sukhnandan.
In conclusion, H.C. Goyal said, “This was not just a fashion walk—it was a celebration of the strength, balance, and human spirit behind every woman, especially those who dedicate their lives to serving others.”
GMR Sports, in partnership with Rugby India, the national governing body for the sport, announced that the second edition of the Rugby Premier League (RPL) will be held at the Gachibowli Stadium, Hyderabad, from June 16 to 28, 2026.
Following a successful inaugural edition last year in Mumbai, the Rugby Premier League returns in the fast-paced Rugby 7s format, aligning with the league’s long-term vision of accelerating the growth and global competitiveness of rugby in India. The second edition will feature the six franchises from the first edition, continuing to provide a high-performance platform that brings together leading Indian and international players, while offering fans an engaging and action-packed rugby experience.
The decision to host the league in Hyderabad aligns with GMR Sports’ broader commitment to developing world-class sporting ecosystems. The announcement follows GMR Sports’ recent signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Telangana, with a shared focus on developing a Satellite Sports City within Bharat Future City, underscoring the Group’s strategic emphasis on sports infrastructure, innovation and athlete development.
Welcoming the league to Hyderabad, Sri Jayesh Ranjan, IAS, Special Chief Secretary to Government (Youth Advancement, Tourism & Culture & Sports Department), Government of Telangana, said: “Hyderabad’s emergence as a global sporting destination reflects Telangana’s long-term policy vision and institutional support for international partnerships. Events like the Rugby Premier League contribute significantly to tourism, urban visibility, and the broader sports economy of the State.”
Echoing this sentiment and outlining the league’s continued evolution, Mr. Rahul Bose, President of Rugby India, said: “With everything one does in life, the quest is to always do better, be better, deliver better. That will continue to be the cornerstone of the RPL.”
Elaborating how this philosophy translates into the league’s execution, he added: “Building a world-class property will never be enough. We will always strive to deliver a better product for our fans, do better by our sponsors and last but not the least, be better partners for our franchises, their owners and their support staff. RPL 2026 at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad sets out to achieve all this and more. We promise a better fan experience, an even more thrilling quality of world-class rugby and a brilliant television and OTT product. As always, we cannot do anything alone. We rely on all our partners, including the media, to guide, advise and be the wind beneath our wings. Here’s to a cracking RPL 2026!”
Outlining GMR Sports’ decision to host the second edition in Hyderabad, Mr. Satyam Trivedi, CEO, GMR Sports, said: “We’re delighted to announce that the second season of Rugby Premier League will be hosted in Hyderabad at the world-class Gachibowli Stadium. Hyderabad’s premier sports infrastructure, excellent connectivity, and passionate fan base make it the perfect home for the league. One of our franchise partners is rooted in Hyderabad, underscoring the city’s pivotal role in our long-term vision for rugby in India. This reflects GMR Sports’ commitment to growing participation, delivering world-class sporting experiences, and inspiring the next generation of athletes in Hyderabad and beyond.”
Highlighting the importance of the event from a high-performance perspective, Dr. A. Sonibala Devi, IFS, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Sports Authority of Telangana (SATG), said: “Hosting the Rugby Premier League at the Gachibowli Stadium strengthens our high-performance ecosystem and provides invaluable exposure to emerging talent. Such international competitions accelerate athlete development and reinforce Telangana’s commitment to sporting excellence.”
With elite competition, a proven league format and a new host city, the second edition of the Rugby Premier League is set to deliver top-tier rugby action while continuing to play a pivotal role in the development of the sport in India.
About GMR Sports:
Founded in 2008, GMR Sports represents the sports sector of the GMR Group. It is driven by a mission to connect people, nurture talent, and establish sports as a powerful unifying platform both within India and globally. Committed to becoming a respected and influential brand in the sports industry, GMR Sports embarked on its journey with cricket, chosen for its widespread appeal as the ideal starting point for the Group’s first-ever sports venture. The journey began with the Delhi Capitals, the city’s first-ever cricket franchise and the sole representative of India’s national capital in the IPL. As part of its mission to broaden its impact, GMR Sports soon diversified its portfolio, adding sports that resonate deeply with the Indian community. The company now owns UP Yoddhas in the Pro Kabaddi League and Telugu Yoddhas in the Ultimate Kho Kho League, additionally, has recently ventured into the league by acquiring rights to the Rugby Premium League, reinforcing its dedication to supporting regional talent and promoting indigenous sports. Expanding its global footprint, GMR Sports now holds franchises in international markets, including Dubai Capitals in ILT20, Pretoria Capitals in SA20, Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket (US), and Hampshire County Cricket Club in England. Through these initiatives, GMR Sports continues to strengthen its presence on the world stage.
Panchkula, April 6, 2026: With a focus on expanding golf culture in the tricity, the Amateur Golfers Society (AGS) successfully organised the 11th Edition of its Golf Tournament – the Amateur Golfers Society (AGS) Golf Tournament at Panchkula Golf Club. The event witnessed participation from 68 golfers and concluded with a prize distribution ceremony graced by Rohit Sharma, Executive Director, DLF Home Developers Ltd., as the Chief Guest.
Speaking at the event, Advocate Suresh K Gupta, Founder Trustee, AGS emphasized that the initiative is aimed at enhancing the playing skills of amateur golfers, encouraging new entrants into the sport, and promoting a strong golfing culture across the tricity region. Winners Across Handicap CategoriesIn the main competition categories, Col. Gopi Singh (Retd.) emerged as the winner in the 0–9 handicap category. In the 10–15 handicap category, Col. T. S. Kahlon (Retd.) secured the winner’s position, while Brig. B. J. Singh (Retd.) finished as runner-up. In the 16 and above handicap category, Anish Arora claimed the top spot, followed by Dr. Hitesh Sharma as runner-up. 80+ Golfer Steals the Show with Longest DriveAmong the special prize categories, Vivek Srihan won the Straightest Drive award, while Brig. Vineet Mittal (Retd.) achieved Closest to the Pin with an impressive distance of 3 feet 3 inches. A standout moment of the tournament was Col. Kulbir Bakshi, aged over 80, who won the Longest Drive with a remarkable distance of 294 yards, earning widespread appreciation. Sunil Sharma secured the award for Highest Birdies—notably, a ‘birdie’ in golf refers to completing a hole in one stroke less than the prescribed par, reflecting a high level of skill and precision.
Senior members of AGS including Advocate Suresh K Gupta, Founder Trustee, AGS; Hukum Goyal, Chief Patron, AGS and owner of Jia Diamonds; Sanjeev Goyal, IAAS, Patron, AGS; and S S Prasad, IAS (Retd.), Patron, AGS, were also present on the occasion. Advocate Suresh K Gupta added that the tournament was supported by partners such as Jia Diamonds, Alpine Nest Homes, Land Edge Developer, who are developing the premium residential project Opal County in Dholera – India’s future smart city, and Soorahi. He further highlighted that the Society has consistently worked towards making golf more accessible through training programs, tournaments, and awareness campaigns. Sharing AGS’s achievements, he noted that the Society has trained a growing number of new golfers and contributed to increased participation in the region.
Chandigarh: Max Hospital Mohali on Monday showcased its advanced AI and 3D technology in knee replacement surgery.
Talking to the media, Dr. Tarandeep Singh Gill, director–ortho & joint replacement said thatAI enables us to achieve a level of precision that was previously not possible, leading to better functional outcomes and faster recovery. This technology-driven approach is enhancing surgical precision, improving patient outcomes, and enabling faster recovery, said Dr Gill.
Chandigarh: Ahead of the Municipal Corporation Elections scheduled for December 2026, the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) expanded its organisational presence by officially launching its Chandigarh Unit on Sunday.
The announcement was made by Trilok Tyagi, National General Secretary of the party, during a press conference held at Chandigarh Press Club. Several leaders and supporters also joined the party on the occasion. Tyagi was accompanied by Prabudh Kumar, National Secretary, Dilpreet Singh, State Convenor, Punjab, Vinay Pradhan, Incharge, J&K, OD Tyagi, State General Secretary, UP, Narinder Chikara, State General Secretary, Haryana and anjit Singh Mohali, State President, Punjab and others.
Addressing the media, Tyagi said the initiative was part of the party’s strategy to strengthen its organisational structure and expand its political footprint beyond its traditional strongholds. He said the party organisation is now active in 14 states across the country and will formally establish its organisational structure in Chandigarh, while special focus will also be placed on strengthening the party’s voice in Punjab.
He further informed that after its strong presence in western Uttar Pradesh, the party has expanded its base in Punjab and Haryana and is now looking to make its mark in Chandigarh. The party had recently contested elections on all seats in Jammu & Kashmir as part of its expansion strategy.
Regarding the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation elections, Tyagi affirmed that the party is preparing to contest the elections. He informed that a formal announcement of the executive body will be made soon and intensify the membership drive.
Raising issues related to Punjab, Tyagi said farmers suffered heavy losses during recent floods but have not yet received adequate compensation. He said the party will seek a meeting with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to raise farmers’ concerns and rights. He also expressed concern over the rising number of cancer cases in Punjab and said the government should address the issue on priority. In addition, he said the party will work towards promoting small-scale industries in the state to generate employment opportunities at the local level.
Those who joined the party on the occasion included Vidya Shankar Pathak, Ramayan Kushwaha, Uma Shankar Shukla, Sunil Kumar Pandey, Sudhir Goyal, Vikas Pathak and Harish Vashisht, along with several notable leaders from Azad Samaj Party and Bahujan Samaj Party.
Tyagi further said the party is also planning organisational expansion in the Union Territories of Puducherry and Ladakh. Responding to a question regarding the alliance with NDA and upcoming elections, he said organisational expansion is being handled by the party organisation, while alliance decisions are taken by the party leadership at the apex level.
The launch of the Chandigarh Unit is being seen as a key organisational expansion move ahead of the Municipal Corporation elections, with the party expected to build its base among urban voters, traders, employees and migrant communities from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana residing in Chandigarh.
RLD was founded in 1996 by former Union Minister Ajit Singh, son of former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh. Tyagi emphasised that the party’s core ideology focuses on farmers’ rights, rural development, social justice, federalism and secular politics.
Chandigarh: The continued non-implementation of High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) on vehicles registered prior to April 1, 2019 is emerging as a serious issue, leading to duplication of number plates, misuse of vehicle identities and harassment of innocent citizens.
The absence of tamper-proof number plates has created opportunities for criminals to use cloned vehicle numbers and making it difficult for enforcement agencies to track vehicles involved in crimes.
International road safety expert Dr. Kamal Soi, Chairman, Raahat – The Safe Community Foundation and Society for Corruption Free India (SCFI) while addressing this issue during a press conference held at Chandigarh Press Club had expressed deep concern over the situation and termed it alarming for public safety and law enforcement.
Dr Soi is also a Member of the National Road Safety Council under the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH), Government of India, where he contributes to road safety policy, transport reforms and accident prevention strategies across the country
He stated that today an innocent vehicle owner can receive a police notice or face legal trouble for a crime he never committed simply because his vehicle number has been duplicated and misused. He said this is not just administrative negligence but a serious injustice to law-abiding citizens.
Dr. Soi further pointed out that Punjab, being a sensitive border state, already faces serious challenges related to drug trafficking, terrorism and organized crime. Such a weak vehicle identification systems directly compromise national security and public safety.
He also highlighted the unchecked proliferation of unauthorized dealers and illegal vendors who are openly affixing fake or non-compliant number plates. Duplicate number plates and HSRP-like plates are easily available through online platforms and local markets, defeating the purpose of a secure registration system.
According to him, this lack of enforcement has resulted in rampant duplication of vehicle numbers, criminals operating with cloned identities, harassment and legal trouble for innocent vehicle owners and loss of credibility of the vehicle registration system.
In a corrective step, the Transport Department has now expanded HSRP affixation for pre-2019 vehicles through authorized automobile dealers across the state via the SIAM digital platform.
Dr Soi advised that an applicant should visit the official website www.siam.in to enter their vehicle details, choose an authorized dealer and than select a convenient date and time slot. The payment must be made online to ensure transparency and avoid any cash dealings. Once the appointment is confirmed, the HSRP can be affixed at the selected dealership. This system is secure, transparent and effectively eliminates the role of illegal operators.
HSRP plates also incorporate retro-reflective technology that enhances visibility up to 200 meters at night, improving road safety.
Dr. Soi urged the Govt and enforcement agencies to take immediate and strict action, including crackdown on unauthorized dealers, monitoring online sale of duplicate plates, strict enforcement with penalties and time-bound implementation to achieve 100% HSRP coverage.
Zirakpur(Mohali): As a mark of collective commitment of Rotaractors and Rotarians, Rotary International President-Elect Olayinka Hakeem Babalola highlighted global priorities, stressing the need for fast-paced inclusive global development. Babalola was sharing his views with media persons along-with KP Nagesh, RI Director (2025–27), Bengaluru & District Governor-Elect (District 3080-India) Rtn. Dr. Rita Kalra on the occasion of the ‘Srijan 2026 – A New Beginning’, a landmark Presidents-Elect and Secretaries-Elect Learning Seminar (PELS/SELS)’ being held at Hotel Park Plaza, Zirakpur.
It is pertinent to state that Rotary International is a global service organization with over 1.2 million business, professional, and community leaders in 45,000+ clubs worldwide. Founded in 1905, it focuses on humanitarian service, high ethical standards, and world peace.
Babalola said that Rotary as an organisation works for peace and called for an end of hostilities in West Asia. He said that the political leaders need to decide to end the war for the benefit of humanity. He said Rotary always helps people in war torn areas and works towards rehabilitating displaced communities. He added that Rotary enters after war ends and helps the people ravaged by violence.
Babalola, a Rotaractor since 1984 and a Rotarian since 1994, told media persons that Rotary’s strategic priorities included the global mission to end polio, expanding membership to 1.25 million members worldwide over the next five years and strengthening Global Grant partnerships focused on environment and sustainability, basic education and literacy, and disease prevention and treatment.
He added that the AI Functional Literacy for Youth project to equip young minds with digital and AI skills is being planned for tricity youngsters. He emphasized the need for innovation-driven service and stronger youth engagement.
Other regional initiatives, and forward-looking projects announced for the Chandigarh Tricity include women empowerment initiatives focusing on digital safety, vocational skilling and entrepreneurship; and the Happy Schools Initiative aimed at improving educational infrastructure.
Notably, the two-day flagship leadership event, organised by the Rotary International Districts 3080 and 3090, has brought together over 500 Rotary leaders from Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and the Union Territory of Chandigarh.
KP Nagesh, RI Director (2025–27), Bengaluru, said that significant health and environmental interventions were also showcased during the seminar including projects for the elimination of tuberculosis, cervical cancer awareness, mobile screening for non-communicable diseases, waste management drives and the development of Rotary nurseries to promote environmental stewardship.
The seminar, being organised under the leadership of District Governor-Elect Rtn. Dr. Rita Kalra (RI District 3080 India) and Rtn. Dr. Sanjay Kalra, along with Past District Governor (PDG) Arun Mongia, focused on equipping incoming Rotary leaders with the skills and vision required for the Rotary Year 2026–27.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Rita Kalra said that the event is featuring breakout sessions, networking opportunities, fellowship interactions, and cultural evenings celebrating diversity and unity.
Dr Kalra, reflecting further, said that Srijan-2026 stands as a testament to Rotary’s commitment to leadership development, collaboration, and impactful service.
Distinguished Rotary leaders including Rotary International Director Elect (RIDE) Rtn. Gurjeet Sekhon, Past District Governor(PDG) Rtn. Shaju Peter, Regional Rotary Membership Coordinator (RRMC) Rtn. Dr. Dushyant Choudhary, Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator (RRFC) Rtn. Dr. Pramod Kumar, Regional Web Master Rtn. Narender Rao, and Club & District Support (CDS) Rtn. Daman Bawega, contributed to the sessions, enriching the experience for participants.
In another development, the Department of Posts, Chandigarh Division, under the guidance of the Sh Kumar Sanjeev IPoS Senior Superintendent of Post Offices, Chandigarh Division, released a Special Cover at GPO Sector 17, Chandigarh on PELS and SELS of Rotary International District 3080. On this occasion, Shri Brij Bhushan Rana, Senior Postmaster, GPO Chandigarh, Shri Kishori Lal, Incharge Business Parcel Centre(BPC) Chandigarh, and Dr Rita Kalra, District Governor 2026-2027 Rotary International District 3080, were present and released the Special Cover. Notably, the Special Cover will be displayed and made available for sale on 3rd and 4th April 2026 during the Rotary International District 3080 event PELS and SELS organized at Hotel Park Plaza Zirakpur by Rotary International District 3080.
मशहूर सेलिब्रिटी शेफ हरपाल सिंह सोखी ने सेक्टर 26 चंडीगढ़ में अपना 12वां रेस्टोरेंट ‘कारीगिरी’ लॉन्च किया है। पंजाबी संस्कृति और खाने के गहरे रिश्ते को समझते हुए उन्होंने इस नए आउटलेट में कई अनोखे कॉन्सेप्ट शामिल किए हैं, जो इसे खास बनाते हैं। शेफ सोखी का मानना है कि पंजाब में खाने का एक अलग ही महत्व है। उन्होंने कहा, “लोग सुबह उठते ही खाने के बारे में सोचते हैं और एक भोजन के बाद अगले की तैयारी शुरू हो जाती है। यही पंजाब की पहचान है और यही वजह है कि यह क्षेत्र हमारे लिए हमेशा रोमांचक रहेगा।”
उन्होंने बताया कि चंडीगढ़ के इस नए रेस्टोरेंट की सबसे बड़ी खासियत इसका ‘आंगन कॉन्सेप्ट’ है। “पहली बार हमने रेस्टोरेंट के अंदर ही एक आंगन तैयार किया है, जिससे हमें एक खूबसूरत और पारंपरिक डिजाइन प्रस्तुत करने का मौका मिला,” उन्होंने कहा।
इंटीरियर के मामले में भी ‘कारीगिरी’ काफी अलग है। यहां एक खास ‘ब्रेड बार’ तैयार किया गया है, जिसमें 20 तरह की रोटियों और उनसे जुड़ी 20 कहानियां शामिल हैं। शेफ सोखी के अनुसार, “हम हमेशा अपनी रोटियों के लिए जाने जाते रहे हैं, लेकिन इस बार हमने इसे एक नए स्तर पर ले जाते हुए ब्रेड ( रोटियों)को कहानी के साथ पेश किया है।”
मेन्यू की बात करें तो इसमें पारंपरिक स्वाद के साथ नए प्रयोग भी देखने को मिलते हैं। खास तौर पर ‘बटर चिकन’ के तीन अलग-अलग वेरिएंट—क्लासिक, व्हाइट और हरे टमाटर वाला बटर चिकन—लोगों का ध्यान आकर्षित कर रहे हैं। उन्होंने बताया कि ‘ग्रीन बटर चिकन’ को मेन्यू में शामिल करने की प्रेरणा उन्हें तब मिली जब मशहूर फिल्म निर्माता-कोरियोग्राफर फराह खान उनके घर आईं और इस डिश को बेहद पसंद किया।
शेफ सोखी ने कहा कि उनका मेन्यू सिर्फ खाने तक सीमित नहीं है, बल्कि यह एक ‘स्टोरीटेलिंग मेन्यू’ है। “मेरी यात्राएं, टीवी शो, मां की रसोई, पिता के पसंदीदा व्यंजन, सास और पत्नी की रेसिपी—ये सभी मिलकर एक ऐसा अनुभव तैयार करते हैं, जिससे लोग भावनात्मक रूप से जुड़ते हैं,” उन्होंने बताया।
उन्होंने आगे कहा कि आज के दौर में लोग सिर्फ खाना नहीं, बल्कि एक पूरा अनुभव चाहते हैं—जहां वे स्वाद के साथ-साथ कहानियों, माहौल और संस्कृति को भी महसूस कर सकें।
रेस्टोरेंट के इंटीरियर को भी खास तौर पर पंजाबी विरासत से जोड़ा गया है। यहां कारीगरों, शिल्पकारों और लोक कलाकारों को समर्पित दीवारें बनाई गई हैं, जिनमें कुम्हार, बर्तन बनाने वाले, फुलकारी कढ़ाई करने वाले और कबड्डी जैसे पारंपरिक खेलों को दर्शाया गया है। यह सब मिलकर ‘कारीगिरी’ को सिर्फ एक रेस्टोरेंट नहीं, बल्कि एक सांस्कृतिक अनुभव बनाते हैं।
A Single Theme Workshop on Neonatal Neurological Disorders will be held at the Advanced Pediatric Centre, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), on 4th and 5th April 2026. The workshop will be conducted by the Newborn Unit, Department of Pediatrics.
The workshop will be inaugurated by Prof. Vivek Lal, Director of PGIMER. The Chairperson of the Organizing Committee is Prof. Praveen Kumar; the Organizing Secretary is Prof. Sourabh Dutta; and the Joint Organizing Secretary is Dr. Jogender Kumar. Other faculty members include Dr. Naveen Jain from Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) and Dr. Naveen Gupta from New Delhi; Prof. Deepak Chawla, Prof. Suksham Jain, and Dr. Supreet Khurana from Government Medical College, Chandigarh; and Dr. Sajan Saini, Dr. Bijaylakshmi Behera, Prof. Naveen Sankhyan, Dr. Arushi Saini, Dr. Anupriya Kaur, Dr. Chirag Ahuja, and Dr. Bharti Sharma from PGIMER.
Neonatal neurological disorders include diseases affecting the nervous system of newborns, primarily the brain. There was a time when the primary focus of newborn specialists was to save the lives of premature babies or full-term babies born with asphyxia. With significantly improved survival rates today compared to a few decades ago, the focus has shifted from mere survival to ensuring “neurologically intact survival.”
“Neurologically intact survival” refers to surviving into childhood and adulthood as a mentally and physically normal individual who can function independently and contribute to society. There is little value in expending enormous family and societal resources to save a newborn baby if the child grows up with severe disabilities such as intellectual impairment or cerebral palsy and remains dependent on caregivers throughout life.
A systematic analysis of data from low- and middle-income countries published in 2021, including India, reported that the average survival rate of babies weighing less than 1 kg was about 30%, with approximately 20% of survivors having abnormal neurological development. Data from major centers in India suggest that very to moderately premature babies have nearly five times the risk of brain disorders compared to full-term babies, and about 35–40% of babies weighing less than 1 kg either die or develop serious brain impairments.
Newborns are particularly vulnerable to neurological disorders because their brains are delicate. In premature babies, the brain is prone to internal bleeding due to fragile blood vessels, white matter damage due to inadequate blood supply or inflammation, and impaired growth and development. In full-term babies, brain injury may occur due to birth asphyxia, metabolic disturbances, or severe jaundice.
Significant advances have been made in the prevention, diagnosis, management, and follow-up of neonatal brain disorders in recent years. These include therapeutic hypothermia (external cooling of the brain) for selected asphyxiated babies, newer anti-epileptic medications, advanced ultrasound and MRI techniques, bedside EEG monitoring, improved recognition and prevention of factors leading to bleeding and white matter injury, diagnosis of complex metabolic disorders using sophisticated laboratory techniques, optimization of antibiotic duration for brain infections, and establishment of standardized follow-up protocols for early detection of cerebral palsy. Together, these advances have contributed to improved neurologically intact survival. Strategies to protect the vulnerable brains of premature babies begin well before birth and continue for months afterward.
Keeping these considerations in mind, the Neonatal Unit of the Department of Pediatrics has organized this two-day workshop dedicated entirely to neonatal brain disorders. The workshop will be highly practical and hands-on. It will include three practical workstations focusing on therapeutic hypothermia, EEG recording, and neuroimaging (ultrasound and MRI). There will also be six real-life clinical case discussions highlighting the management of newborns with serious neurological conditions.
The participants are pediatric specialists with a special interest in neonatal care. Lectures on the first day will cover the basics of neurological examination in newborns (which differs significantly from that in adults and older children), an approach to the stuporous neonate, and the diagnosis and management of brain injury due to asphyxia, intracranial hemorrhage, and white matter injury. The second day will include lectures on the management of neonatal seizures, hydrocephalus, preventive strategies, neonatal stroke, brain injury due to hypoglycemia or severe jaundice, and long-term follow-up.
Simple measures that the general public can adopt to promote neurologically intact survival include regular antenatal check-ups, adherence to medical advice during pregnancy, exclusive breastfeeding, prevention of infections, and seeking immediate medical attention if a newborn shows abnormal movements, lethargy or severe jaundice.
