Chandigarh, November 9

Grey Group and Marriott International proudly announce the grand opening of JW Marriott Ludhiana, a landmark addition to Punjab’s luxury hospitality landscape, set to offer an unparalleled experience in sophistication and comfort. The exclusive launch event took place at JW Marriott Chandigarh, where representatives from both Grey Group and Marriott International highlighted the collaborative vision to redefine premium hospitality in the region.

JW Marriott Ludhiana stands as a premier destination with 160 elegantly designed rooms and expansive indoor and outdoor banqueting spaces, catering to discerning guests who seek a blend of luxury and world-class service. The property’s offerings include a selection of fine dining venues, a specialty restaurant, sophisticated lounge bars, and a welcoming lobby lounge, all crafted to provide a memorable stay. In addition, guests have access to a fully equipped gym, a serene spa and a luxurious swimming pool, ensuring a holistic wellness experience.

In addition, Grey Group launched an exclusive, members-only luxury club featuring world-class amenities and is planning to introduce branded luxury residences.

Inder Raj Singh, Managing Director of Grey Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, saying, “We are thrilled to bring the JW Marriott brand to Ludhiana. This launch symbolizes our dedication to elevating luxury hospitality in the region and creating a unique experience that harmonizes world-class service with the cultural richness of Ludhiana. JW Marriott Ludhiana is poised to become a distinguished landmark for both locals and travellers, offering unparalleled quality and elegance.”

Speaking on behalf of JW Marriott, brand representatives emphasized the attention to detail in every aspect of the property, from sophisticated interiors to state-of-the-art amenities, all tailored to enhance guest experiences.

With JW Marriott Ludhiana, the brand extends its legacy of luxury and commitment to excellence, setting a new benchmark for the region’s hospitality standards. This latest addition reinforces JW Marriott’s dedication to delivering unmatched experiences, marking a significant milestone for Ludhiana’s hospitality industry.

Chandigarh:

Chandigarh Science Congress (CHASCON) 2024 started at Panjab University (PU), Chandigarh, today. The conference begin with an inaugural ceremony, followed by keynote addresses from Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, President, Indian National Science Academy (INSA), and Ms. Shweta Khurana, Senior Director, Asia-Pacific and Japan, Global Government Affairs.

The theme of the three day Congress is “Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat”. As many as 1200 academicians, scientists and researchers from various institutions and industrial houses from Chandigarh region and various other parts are participating in the conclave to exchange ideas, foster collaborations, and inspire the next generation of scientists. The Congress would conclude on November 8.

An exhibition of research activities of various institutes of Chandigarh region and departments of PU also started at the Law Auditorium ground. “Breaking the Shell and Soaring High: Startup Journeys”, a book captivating exploration into the world of entrepreneurship, showcasing the inspiring stories of eight startups that have emerged from the entrepreneurial hub of Panjab University, was also released at the inaugural ceremony.

PU Vice Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig emphasised that technology is continuously evolving, improving the quality of our lives and offering better products with enhanced features across almost every field. This evolution presents a challenge and an opportunity, especially for young people like the students, who will work on the technologies of the future.

Addressing the students, researchers and faculty members, INSA President Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, who was the chief guest, emphasised on the need for people-centred technology and sustainability in development. He highlighted the significance of the recent geospatial policy in India that removes restrictions on surveying and mapping, potentially unlocking tremendous economic growth, as seen with initiatives like the “Swamitva” scheme, aimed at providing ownership certificates for land in rural areas.

Prof. Sharma outlined key technological priorities, including AI, IoT, and Large Language models, as essential for a self-reliant India (Viksit Bharat). He also discussed the need for disruptive innovation in India’s educational system, stating that true development requires a societal mindset that prioritises India-centric research. He said that while technology is important, society must focus on self-respect, confidence, and a critical understanding of its own strengths and weaknesses. These “three cultural pillars” — confidence, self-respect, and introspection — are crucial for fostering innovation and excellence in India’s scientific landscape. He challenged the notion that increased funding alone could drive success. Excellence in fields like theoretical sciences and mathematics, which require minimal infrastructure, remains under-realised in India due to cultural rather than financial limitations, he added.

In her address, Senior Director of Intel Corporation Ms. Shweta Khurana discussed how indigenous technologies, especially in AI, are crucial to our mission at Intel: to improve the lives of people around the globe through technology that meets their needs effectively and provides practical solutions. AI can be a force for progress, prosperity, and resilience in India, she added.

Motivating the students, Ms. Khurana said that the students as future scientists have the opportunity to lead this AI revolution. Imagine transforming India into a nation not only consuming AI but also pioneering new knowledge in AI. This impact can be profound, not only by innovating but by leading change responsibly, ethically, and sustainably, as we bridge ancient sciences with modern breakthroughs, she added.

Ms Khurana also connected the AI-enabled era mean with Viksit Bharat. Innovation goes beyond tools and technologies; it’s about creating tailored solutions for our unique challenges. It can foster local communities, create employment, and strengthen India’s global position in AI. Imagine AI-powered solutions that help farmers analyse soil health and maximise crop yields at a fraction of the cost. Frugal AI can enable such advancements, making technology accessible, affordable, and available for those who might otherwise be left out of the digital revolution, she further added.

Prof. Y. K. Rawal, Coordinator of the conference highlighted the origin and significance of CHASCON in bringing together distinguished scientists, innovators, and young researchers. The Inaugural function ended with the vote of thanks by Prof Sonal Singhal, Co-Coordinator, CHASCON-2024.

Chandigarh, November 6

          The Punjab Government has announced that sugarcane crushing in the state will begin from November 25, 2024 onwards.

          This decision was made during a meeting of the State Sugarcane Control Board, chaired by Punjab Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian at his office, on Wednesday.

Khudian said that Punjab has witnessed a 5% increase in the area under sugarcane crop. This year, sugarcane crop has been cultivated on 1 lakh hectares area, which is up from around 95,000 hectares previous year. There are 15 sugar mills in Punjab, comprising nine cooperative and six private mills, which are expected to crush around 700 lakh quintals of sugarcane. The state is projected to produce 62 lakh quintals of sugar this season, he added.

          The Agriculture Minister directed the concerned officials to ensure that all arrangements are in place before the commencement of crushing operations, while emphasising that farmers should not face any inconvenience in selling their produce and timely payments should also be made to them.

CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, November 6

          Striking a big blow to the gangster-narco nexus, Amritsar Commissionerate Police has busted a trans-border narcotic smuggling racket with the arrest of three drug smugglers and recovered 1kg Ice (Methamphetamine) and 1kg Heroin from their possession, said Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav here on Wednesday.

          Those arrested have been identified as Karandeep Singh (22), a resident of village Bhakna Kala in Amritsar, Jeewan Singh (19) and Manjinder Singh (21), both resident of Chohla Sahib in Tarn Taran. Police teams have also impounded their car Toyota Etios in which they were travelling.

          DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary investigations have revealed that arrested accused Karandeep had been living in Dubai and Moscow in Russia before returning back to Punjab after six years.

          After returning to Punjab, accused Karandeep has established contacts with the Pak-based drug smugglers using various social media apps and started smuggling narcotics from across the border to further supply them in Amritsar and neighbouring districts, he said, while adding that drones were being used by Pak-based smugglers to influx narcotics into the territory of the state.

          The DGP said the the probe has also found that the accused Karandeep was also in touch with foreign-based Gangster Gurdev alias Jaisal. An FIR under NDPS Act registered at Police Station Airport Amristar and Investigations ongoing to establish backward and forward linkages, he added.

          Pertinently, Gurdev Jaisel is a key operative of Canada-based terrorists Lakhbir alias Landa and Satbir Singh alias Satta, who were behind the Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) attack at Police Station Sarhali and numerous plots to commit targeted killings in Punjab.

          Sharing operation details while addressing a press conference, Commissioner of Police (CP) Amritsar Gurpreet Singh Bhullar said that acting swiftly on a secret input, police teams from CIA Staff-1 under the supervision of DCP Investigation Harpreet Singh Mander laid a naka near Puli Sua at Ajnala road in Amritsar and arrested trio accused persons after recovering drug consignments from their vehicle.

          The CP said that further investigations are going on. More arrests and recoveries are expected in coming days, he added.

          A case FIR no 44 dated 05.11.2024 has been registered under sections 21C,22C and 23 of the NDPS Act at Police Station Airport Amritsar.

Mohali: There is no problem that cannot be solved. Hard times and tough situations make a person stronger. There is no need to go to anyone to make yourself strong, but you need to recognize your inner strength. Only by recognizing their inner strength, young students can fly in the sky and fulfill their every dream. These views were expressed by Raj Lali Gill Chairperson Punjab State Commission for Women, who was present as the chief guest on the last day of the ongoing Youth Festival at Doaba Group of Colleges while motivating the students. At this time, he also made the students aware about drugs, difficulties faced by students in foreign countries and difficulties of live in relationship. Along with this, this regional youth fair, which has been going on for three consecutive days, ended with colorful memories. On the third day of the program, Punjabi University Patiala Dean Dr. Narinder Kaur Multani and Educationist Dr. Gunamala Suri attended as special guests. More than 1500 students from 65 colleges participated in this three-day regional youth fair. Mata Gujri College Fatehgarh Sahib won the overall championship trophy by beating other colleges in this regional youth fair of the session 2024-25 by Punjabi University Patiala.

The guests who came earlier were welcomed by Director Principal Dr. Minu Jaitley. On the third day, all the teams were given an opportunity to present their art effectively. In this festival, various programs like classical dance, mime, skit, giddha, debate, poetic recitation, declamation etc. were organized as per the schedule. The most attractive offering of the last day was the vulture. The main objective of organizing this festival was to know the hidden talent of the students. Dr. Narinder Kaur Multani and educationist Dr. Gunmala Suri, who were present as special guests on this occasion, talked about the rich culture of Punjab and appreciated the energy of the youth in their speech. They also congratulated Doaba Group of Colleges for completing 25 years of Silver Jubilee. During this regional youth fair which lasted for three consecutive days, DGC Chairman S. M.S. Bath, Managing Vice Chairman of DGC. SS Sangha, Executive Vice Chairman Manjit Singh, Dean Student Welfare Maninderpal Kaur Gill, DGC. All the Director-Principals and Principals of various colleges and other staff members were present and contributed to the successful completion of this program.

Chandigarh: India is witnessing an alarming upsurge in cardiovascular ailments. The increasing incidence of heart conditions is no longer limited to the elderly; more and more young people are falling victim to heart related ailments. Lifestyle factors, stress, and unhealthy habits are contributing to this worrying surge, with many patients in their 30s and 40s being diagnosed with coronary artery disease (CAD). Experts warn that the number of younger patients is growing rapidly, adding to the already critical global health crisis.

Dr. T.S. Mahant, Executive Director and Head-Cardiac Surgery at Fortis Hospital, Mohali, highlighted this growing issue during a media interaction, stating, “Over 50 percent of the heart patients coming for consultation   are below the age of 50, which is a clear indicator that heart ailments among young people are on the rise. The situation is particularly concerning in India, where younger individuals are increasingly diagnosed with coronary artery disease.”

He further elaborated on how lifestyle changes in urban areas, as compared to rural regions where traditional diets and physical activity are more prevalent, are a key contributor in this trend. “In younger patients, particularly those aged 35-45 years, the disease often presents with more severe outcomes due to delayed diagnosis and recognition of symptoms, He also emphasized that young men remain more susceptible, though the number of young women with risk factors like smoking and obesity is rising.

Dr. Mahant shared insights on the severity of cases being treated at Fortis.

One such case involved a 24-year-old patient, a farmer from Patiala, who came in with severe coronary artery disease. After undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and removal of a heart clot, he was discharged and is now recovering well. Another case was of a 30-year-old patient, who was diagnosed with coronary artery disease and had suffered a recent heart attack. He underwent a successful CABG and was also discharged in stable condition.

Dr. Mahant highlighted that heart disease affects not only adults but also newborns and children. Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a major public health concern in India, often diagnosed late after complications have developed. As societal trends shift, older couples are more likely to give birth to children predisposed to congenital cardiac anomalies.

“Prevention is crucial,” Dr. Mahant advised. “A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. It’s essential to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar regularly, and to seek early medical intervention for any unusual symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.”

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, September 18

The Department of Uro-Oncology and Robotic Surgery, Fortis Hospital Mohali, has successfully treated multiple patients suffering from complex urological cancers via the world’s most advanced 4th Generation Robot – Da Vinci Xi.

Dr Dharmender Aggarwal, Consultant, Uro-Oncology and Robotic Surgery at Fortis Hospital Mohali, has treated two such patients through robot-aided surgeries.

In the first case, a 56-year-old patient, who had undergone a renal transplant in 2018 due to chronic kidney disease, found a 3-cm tumour in his transplanted kidney. He approached Dr Aggarwal at Fortis Mohali where following subsequent examinations, Dr Aggarwal performed Robot-assisted transplant kidney partial nephrectomy (removing part of the kidney to treat a disease). The Patient’s renal vessels were dissected and the tumour was removed, while preserving the kidney. He had good urine output post-surgery and did not require transfusion or dialysis. The Patient started walking 10 hours after the surgery and was discharged on the third day. He has recovered fully and leading a normal life today.

Discussing the case, Dr Aggarwal, said, “The case was complex as it was difficult to dissect around the transplanted kidney and make proper planes. Most of the times, the kidney and surrounding tissues are stuck due to previous surgeries. Any delay in medical intervention would have caused the tumor to grow in size and impact the other organs.”

In another case, a 62-year-old patient was experiencing blood in his urine from the last 10 days. On subsequent evaluation, he was found to have a large tumor in his right kidney (14 cm) along with a thrombus in his renal vein and a large blood vessel inferior vena cava. The Patient approached Dr Aggarwal where following a PET scan and other medical investigations, Dr Aggarwal suggested robot-aided surgery was a line of treatment to the patient. The team of doctors led by Dr Aggarwal performed Robotic Radical Nephrectomy with IVC Thrombectomy of large kidney lesion and were able to completely remove the entire tumour along with thrombus in the large vein. The case was complex as the tumour involved a large vein going towards the heart, which posed a risk that the tumour thrombus could get dislodged and go into the heart, causing a cardiac arrest.

Discussing the case, Dr Aggarwal, said, “The entire IVC was dissected and control was taken at three points to avoid any such problem. The Patient had a smooth post-operative recovery post surgery and was able to walk within 8 hours of the procedure. He was discharged after three days.”

On the benefits of robot-aided surgeries, Dr Aggarwal, said, “Compared to the usual stay of 8-10 days in an open surgery, Robot-aided surgery allows a patient to walk on the same day of the procedure. With the help of newer technologies, we are now able to remove only the tumour and save the kidney in most of the cases. Robot-aided surgery is the latest form of minimal invasive surgery and provides a 3D view of the operative field via a special camera inserted into the body of the patient. Parts of the body which are difficult to reach with the human hand can be accessed through robot-assisted arms that can rotate 360 degrees.”

Dr Dharmender Aggarwal has undergone training in complex cancer surgeries and Robot-aided Surgery from London, and has performed more than 550 robotic surgeries cases till now.

Chandigarh: PVR INOX Limited, the largest and the most premium cinema exhibitor in India has announced the opening of its third cinema in Mohali today featuring the multi-sensory format 4DX. The new 7-screen multiplex at Mohali Walk, Sector 62, Mohali, Punjab would offer city residents yet another out-of-home entertainment destination to watch movies in the best of immersive environment.​ With this opening, PVR INOX will strengthen its foothold in Punjab with 90 screens in 17 properties continuing its expansion in the Northern part of India with 466 screens in 101 properties.

Strategically located near the PCA Stadium Mohali, the new property has a total seating capacity of 1022 audiences and all its audis equipped with the next-generation 4K laser projection that delivers exceptional presentation quality with vivid colours, improved screen brightness, and clear on-screen images. The cinema will also offer a fully immersive cinematic experience with its 4D auditorium that incorporates on-screen visuals with synchronized motion seats and environmental effects such as water, wind, fog, scent, snow, and more, to enhance the action on screen. Furthermore, the audis feature last-row plush recliners, advanced Dolby 7.1 audio, and Next-Gen 3D technology.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Ajay Bijli, Managing Director, PVR INOX Limited, said, “Punjab holds a lot of promise for our growth plans in the North and we are thrilled to announce the launch of our third property in Mohali which will provide a fully immersive movie-going experience to audiences. The evolving demand from audiences keeps us assertive for bringing innovations and global standard of cinematic experience to every part of the country. We are confident that our patrons will appreciate our new cinema for a holistic movie-going experience.’’

With the visually dazzling interior, the cinema is styled with gold and black metal with a feature ceiling in gold, enhanced by vertical linear wall paneling. The foyer displays a modern design theme with opulent satvario tile cladding on walls, having gold metal inlays and grey flooring. The use of text and screens in the foyer along with the framed and custom wall lights and plasmas, celebrating legendary actors and actresses enhances the ambience of the cinema. Additionally, the cinema will offer an extensive range of gourmet delicacies with the ease of ordering with digital kiosks to cater to varied customer preferences.

Expressing his views on the launch announcement, Mr. Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Executive Director, PVR INOX Limited said, ‘’It is extremely gratifying to introduce yet another advanced cinema concept for our patrons in Mohali, Punjab. While we look forward to extending our footprint across the country, we will continue to focus on smaller towns and cities to bring them to par with the highest global standards of out-of-home entertainment. We are confident that our latest venture will become a prime destination for all movie lovers in Mohali and Chandigarh while giving a boost to the local Punjabi film industry.”