Category Archives: Punjab

Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab

Tricity Paediatric Super Specialty Meet 2025 Sets New Benchmarks in Child Healthcare Innovation

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Chandigarh, July 21, 2025:
Over 100 leading pediatricians and child health specialists from across India came together today at JW Marriott, Chandigarh for the Tricity Paediatric Super Specialty Meet 2025, held in collaboration with the Punjab Medical Council.

This year’s theme—“Protecting Our Little Ones: Exploring the Latest Advancements in Child Health”—set the tone for an intensive exchange of knowledge, innovation, and collaborative discussion on critical child health issues.

The day-long meet featured impactful sessions on Kawasaki Disease, Pediatric Neurology, complex PICU cases, infectious markers through dermatological symptoms, and cutting-edge vaccination strategies.

One of the key highlights was the “Vaccination Dialogue” session, which focused on Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)—a common cause of persistent cough, wheezing, and pneumonia in infants. Experts discussed in detail the newly available single-dose preventive vaccine, Beyfortus (Nirsevimab), and its significance in protecting neonates from RSV-related complications.

Dr. Neeraj Kumar, former President of IMA Chandigarh and lead Motherhood organizer, stated:
“This meet is not just about knowledge sharing—it’s a collective commitment to staying at the forefront of pediatric healthcare. We must empower our medical community with updated insights, tools, and awareness to safeguard our most delicate population—our children.”

Dr. Sunny Narula, Senior Consultant Pediatrician and an influential voice in pediatric advocacy, emphasized:
“In a post-pandemic world, pediatric care must evolve swiftly. This platform enables clinicians to engage directly with the latest research, therapies, and real-world experiences that can significantly impact outcomes in OPDs and ICUs alike.”

Dr. Abhay Shah, former Chairperson of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics and practicing pediatrician from Ahmedabad, shared:
“Child health lies at the intersection of science and society. While we address diseases like RSV, we must also consider the nutritional and environmental conditions shaping modern childhood. Prevention, early intervention, and health equity must be our top priorities.”

Prof. Archana Chakraborty, pediatrician and academician from Faridabad, added:
“What excites me most about this meet is the interdisciplinary richness—from neurodevelopmental assessments to dermatological diagnostics. These diverse conversations push us to think beyond the textbook and apply integrated care models in our practice.”

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🔬 Scientific Highlights
• Kawasaki in Cribs – Early diagnosis and treatment strategies in infants
• Skin Speaks – Using dermatological signs to detect early infectious conditions
• Neuro Care Update – Complex pediatric neurology case discussions
• Vaccination Breakthrough – Expert discussion on Beyfortus (Nirsevimab) for RSV prevention in newborns

The event saw active participation from major pediatric hubs such as PGIMER Chandigarh, GMCH-32, GMSH-16, along with leading private hospitals and institutions from Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Faridabad.

Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab

“Teen’s Sudden Health Crisis Linked to Rare Birth Defect and Childhood Surgery”

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Chandigarh, July 21, 2025 – When 15-year-old Abeer (name changed) started experiencing sudden abdominal pain and vomiting greenish fluid, his parents were naturally concerned. At first, they thought it was a routine stomach infection. But the reality was far more serious—and rooted in a condition he was treated for as a baby.

Abeer was born in a district of Himachal Pradesh. He was a full-term baby, at just two months old, he began showing symptoms such as persistent vomiting, feeding intolerance, and poor weight gain. He was diagnosed with a rare congenital condition called intestinal malrotation, where the intestines develop in the wrong position inside the abdomen. This condition affects approximately 1 in every 2,000 live births and, if left untreated, can lead to a dangerous complication known as volvulus, where the intestines twist and block the blood supply.

What makes this condition particularly challenging is that it often cannot be detected on standard prenatal anomaly scans. “Unlike heart or spine defects, this condition doesn’t produce obvious abnormalities during fetal development,” explained Dr. Ashish Dharmik, Consultant – Paediatric Neonatal Surgery, Motherhood Chaitanya Hospital, Sec 44, Chandigarh “The bowel is present and moving, so the scan often appears normal. Subtle mispositioning of the intestines just isn’t easy to pick up in utero.”

Abeer underwent corrective surgery called Ladd’s procedure at the time and made a steady recovery in 7 days, was discharged in stable condition.

For the next 15 years, Abeer was healthy and thriving—until recently, when he began vomiting and couldn’t keep any food down. Doctors quickly identified a blockage in his small intestine. This time, the problem was caused by adhesions—bands of internal scar tissue that can form after surgery.

“Adhesions are like cobwebs inside the abdomen,” explained Dr. Ashish Dharmik, Consultant – Paediatric Neonatal Surgery, Motherhood Chaitanya Hospital, Sec 44, Chandigarh. “When someone has had abdominal surgery, even years ago, some tissues inside the belly can stick together. Over time, this can cause blockage, preventing food and fluids from passing through the intestine.”

Doctors first tried to manage Abeer’s condition with fluids and medications for about 5–7 days. However, when these treatments didn’t work, surgery was the only option.

During the operation, Dr. Dharmik found thick scar tissue stuck around the intestines, along with a narrowed section of the small intestine called the jejunum. “We had to gently separate all the stuck areas to free the intestines,” said Dr. Dharmik. “Then we removed the narrowed portion and joined the healthy parts together so everything could function normally again.”

Abeer recovered well after surgery—he resumed soft foods within days and was discharged in stable condition. Stitches were to be removed on day 10, with follow-ups scheduled thereafter,

While adhesive intestinal obstruction can happen after any abdominal surgery, it is relatively rare for it to present 13–15 years later, especially in adolescents. The risk of such complications is estimated to be between 1% to 5% after abdominal procedures in infancy. Dr. Ashish Dharmik emphasized that this case is a reminder for parents to stay alert. “If your baby vomits frequently, doesn’t gain weight properly, or seems to have feeding issues, it’s important to get them checked. Conditions like malrotation are rare, but when caught early, they can be treated safely. Even in older children, if there’s frequent stomach pain that doesn’t go away or isn’t explained by infection or diet, further tests may be needed. If left undetected, such blockages can lead to malnutrition or even emergencies requiring immediate surgery.”

This case is a powerful reminder of how certain congenital conditions, though treated early, may carry long-term implications. It highlights the importance of timely diagnosis, surgical expertise, and parental awareness.

Chandigarh, Punjab

Government intensifying efforts under Project JEEVANJYOT 2.0 to make the state child-begging free; 21 child beggars rescued: Dr. Baljit Kaur

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Chandigarh, July 20:

Under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is carrying out a vigorous campaign to make the state free from begging. Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that under Project JEEVANJYOT 2.0, a total of 21 child beggars have been rescued from the districts of Ludhiana and Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar (Nawanshahr).

She stated that the district child protection teams of the department conducted special raids at the bus stands, railway stations, and other locations in Ludhiana, rescuing 18 children, while 3 more children were rescued from Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar. All rescued children have been presented before the Child Welfare Committees and are currently kept safely in children’s homes.

Dr. Baljit Kaur said that if investigations reveal that any person has forced these children into begging, strict legal action will be taken against them. She further added that if there is any suspicion regarding the identity of the child’s parents, the Child Welfare Committees may also initiate DNA testing on the orders of the Deputy Commissioner to ascertain the true parentage of the children.

The Minister emphasized that the primary objective of the Punjab Government is to ensure a safe and secure future for every child. She stated that continuous raids are being conducted at various locations by district teams under JEEVANJYOT 2.0. Notably, no cases of child begging have been reported from districts other than Ludhiana and Nawanshahr, which reflects the effectiveness of the government’s awareness and rescue campaigns.

Dr. Baljit Kaur further stated that in order to completely root out the serious issue of child begging from Punjab, the Social Security Department’s district welfare teams will continue such raids and checks regularly across all districts, ensuring that no child is ever forced into begging.

In conclusion, the Minister appealed to the public to not give alms to any child beggar and urged that if any child is seen begging anywhere, people should immediately report the case by calling Child Helpline 1098, so that the child can be provided immediate protection, care, and a better future.

Chandigarh, Punjab

NATIONAL FISH FARMERS DAY: FISHERIES FLOURISH IN PUNJAB AS FISH PRODUCTION SOARS TO 2L MT

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Chandigarh, July 10:

Making a notable stride in the fish farming sector, Punjab has been producing 2 lakh metric tons (MT) of fish annually from natural waters, private and panchayati ponds, informed S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian, Minister of Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries, on the occasion of National Fish Farmers Day, on Thursday.

Highlighting recent developments in the fisheries sector, S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian stated that Punjab currently has over 43,683 acres dedicated to fish farming and 985 acres to shrimp farming, which is showcasing the state’s growing aquaculture landscape.

He further informed that 16 government fish seed farms, 11 fish feed mills, and 7 laboratories have been actively serving the state farmers to promote fishing sector. Additionally, 637 fish farmer beneficiaries have received financial assistance worth Rs 30.64  crore for fish farming projects including pond construction for fish & shrimp farming, fish feed mills, Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS), Biofloc-Culture Systems, insulated vehicles, motorcycles & auto-rickshaws with ice boxes, with subsidies ranging from from 40% to 60%.

Apart from this, 8 private fish kiosks have also been set up to facilitate the sale of fish and fish products in a hygienic environment, he added.

Extending warm greetings to the state fish farmers, S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian said that the fisheries sector has been flourishing under the dynamic leadership of the Punjab Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann. These efforts have created vast potential for growth in fish farming and allied industries, with significant scope for development in fish and shrimp processing. This growth will, in turn, generate new employment opportunities to further boost Punjab’s economy.

The Fisheries Minister urged the state’s youth to explore fish farming as a lucrative self-employment opportunity, contributing to the state’s economic growth by embracing this promising venture.

Chandigarh, Punjab

State Government working diligently to address concerns of rice millers and other stakeholders: Group of Ministers

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Chandigarh, July 10:

The Group of Ministers (GoM) constituted for ensuring the seamless and hassle free procurement of Wheat and Paddy today held a comprehensive meeting with the rice Millers of Punjab with a view to allay their concerns and give a patient hearing to their issues.

The Chairman of the Group of Ministers,

Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian stated that the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government is proactively making comprehensive arrangements to ensure a seamless Kharif procurement season. As sowing has commenced, the state administration is working diligently to address the concerns and demands of millers and other stakeholders, while taking into account their requirements and demands to facilitate a smooth procurement operations in the state.

The Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Mr. Lal Chand Kataruchak during interaction with the mediapersons said that the millers are appreciative of the fact that the State Government has begun preparations many months in advance about upcoming Paddy procurement season. He also stated that the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is painstakingly working to resolve all the issues pertaining to the millers and is scheduled to meet the Union Minister Pralhad Joshi in New Delhi over the matters which are in the domain of the Union Government.

Assuring all the stakeholders viz. Farmers, Rice Millers, Arhtiyas and the Labourers of protecting their interests, the Minister divulged that the Punjab Government is committed to fulfill their justified demands. On the movement of foodgrains from the State to ensure storage space, Mr. Kataruchak added that till now, 105 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT) of foodgrains has been moved out.

The Transport and Jails Minister Mr. Laljit Singh Bhullar assured that the Punjab Government said that the rice millers form the backbone of the procurement process and the State Government is formulating every step taking their welfare into active consideration. The Water Resources Minister Mr. Barinder Kumar Goyal said that the Punjab Government stands shoulder to shoulder with all the stakeholders in their every hour of need and views them as active partners not just in the procurement process but in the overall development of Punjab.

Among others present on the occasion included the Principal Secretary Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Rahul Tiwari, Director Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Varinder Kumar Sharma, Secretary Punjab Mandi Board Ramvir, MD PUNSUP Sonali Giri besides representatives of the rice millers.

Chandigarh, Punjab

Punjab State Cooperative Bank carries out tree-plantation drive in Mohali in collaboration with Eco Plantation Association

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SAS Nagar, July 5:

The Punjab State Cooperative Bank carried out tree-plantation drive in association with the Eco Plantation Association, Mohali on Saturday. This activity is carried out as a part of the Campaign ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ in connection with celebration of International Year of Cooperative (IYC) 2025.

On this occasion, trees were planted on road berms of newly developed Purab Apartment Chownk, Sector-78, Mohali. Chairman and Managing Director along-with staff of the bank participated in the event and planted trees with the help of Eco Plantation Association.

The Chairman of the bank S. Jagdev Singh Bam while speaking on the occasion, said that the Eco Plantation Association is doing a wonderful work to protect the environment and to make the city green. He further said that The Punjab State Cooperative Bank felt privileged to be a part of this noble cause. The Eco Plantation Association was also honoured by the Chairman with a momento for their matchless efforts in saving the environment.

The Managing Director S. Harjeet Singh Sandhu (PCS) of the bank while speaking on this occasion has stressed on the importance of saving Mother Earth for future generations. He shared the environmental issues faced by the world due to pollution and ever-decreasing green cover. He also said that the Earth is around five hundred million years old and the degradation of the environment occurred in the last 100 to 200 years is much more than what this Earth has undergone during five hundred million years. He assured the Eco Plantation Association of all possible help in their endeavour to protect the environment. The members of the association thanked the entire team of the bank for its sincere and whole-hearted participation in the tree plantation drive for the sake of the environment.

Chandigarh, Punjab

DR. BALJIT KAUR’S TIMELY INTERVENTION PREVENTS CHILD MARRIAGE IN SBS NAGAR

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Chandigarh, July 4:

The Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, remains fully committed to making the state free from the social evil of child marriage and continues to take firm, effective steps in this direction. In one such instance, the timely intervention of Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur led to the prevention of a child marriage involving a 15-year-old girl in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar district.

Sharing details of the case, Dr. Baljit Kaur revealed that a few months ago, a minor girl made a distress call to the 112 emergency helpline from a beauty parlour, pleading for help to prevent her impending marriage. Acting swiftly, the Deputy Superintendent of Police (Crimes Against Women and Children) immediately alerted the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU).

Following an inquiry, it was found that the girl’s parents, citing her lack of interest in studies and family circumstances, were attempting to marry her off at just 15 years of age. Social pressures and concerns over family honour had also influenced their decision.

Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that a joint team comprising officials from the District Child Protection Unit, Child Development Project Officer, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, and Station House Officer reached the marriage venue without delay and successfully rescued the minor girl before the ceremony could take place. The groom’s family was also made aware of the legal implications and grave consequences of child marriage. In the presence of village representatives, including the Sarpanch, both families provided written consent to cancel the marriage.

Commending the prompt and coordinated response of the district team, Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that this case stands as a clear demonstration of the Punjab Government’s zero-tolerance policy towards child protection violations. She reaffirmed that the Mann Government is steadfast in creating a safe and empowering environment for every girl child in the state.

The Minister further informed that the girl was presented before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), which, considering the risk of repeat attempts, ordered her immediate placement in a Children’s Home in Jalandhar. She was later reunited with her family and, since she expressed no interest in continuing formal education, has been enrolled in vocational training to help secure her future.

Dr. Baljit Kaur earnestly appealed to social welfare organizations, village Sarpanches/Panches, and the general public to promptly report any instances of child marriage by calling the Child Helpline at 1098. She assured that the identity of the informant would be kept strictly confidential, and the government would take swift action to safeguard the rights and futures of vulnerable children.

Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab

Fortis Mohali Leads in Advanced Angioplasty for High-Risk Elderly Cardiac Patients

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Chandigarh, June 30, 2025: Fortis Hospital Mohali is one of the leading centres of excellence in cardiac care, The hospital offers cutting-edge interventional cardiology treatment to high-risk patients who were earlier considered unfit for bypass surgery or angioplasty.

A 93-year-old man with complex  heart disease and weakness was successfully treated with an advanced form of angioplasty for a major heart artery blockage. In another case, a 70-year-old man with diabetes, heart failure, kidney problems, and blockages in three heart arteries also underwent a complex and risky angioplasty. Both patients were not fit for surgery, but thanks to advanced technology and expert medical care, they have recovered well and are doing fine.

Giving details, Dr Sudhanshu Budakoty, Senior Consultant, Department of Cardiology, Fortis Hospital Mohali, said, “A 93-year-old man with diagnosed hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (thickening of the heart wall, especially the left side), coronary artery disease presented to us with chest pain. He had undergone coronary angiography in 2022 and was advised for CABG (Coronary Artery Bypass Graft), but due to his advanced age and frailty and possible high-risk surgery he did not go for it and was kept on medical management.”

 Despite of all optimized medical treatment, he continued to have recurrent chest pain at rest. The doctordiscussed the treatment options with the patient and family and counseled them about the need for repeat angiography. The patient and his family were unsure at first, as they had previously been told that neither surgery nor stenting was an option. Dr. Sudhanshu explained to them the need for intervention now and if required stenting is possible. He was taken up for Coronary Angiography (CAG), which showed calcified triple vessel disease. The calcified vessels could not be stented without plaque modification. The patient and his family were explained the advanced treatment options to deal with the hardened calcium in his heart arteries. These included special techniques like Rotablation, Intravascular Lithotripsy (IVL), and Laser, followed by placing a stent in the artery causing the symptoms. After they understood everything and gave written permission, the patient underwent a complex angioplasty using the IVL method, in which gentle shockwaves are sent through a balloon to crack and soften calcium in the artery walls.

The patient had an angioplasty (PCI) done in one major artery – LAD (the most important artery in the front of the heart supplying maximum myocardial tissue). Patient was stable post procedure and was discharged the next day with no chest pain. He was followed up in OPD with no residual symptoms.

Dr Sudhanshu Budakoty  further added, “In another similar case, A 70-year-old diabetic man presented to us for cardiac clearance of surgery for anal fistula. On routine evaluation, we found out that he had a previous suffered a silent heart attack and it caused his heart pumping to drop to 30%. He was also detected with possible chronic kidney disease. In view of his high-risk conditions, he was first taken up for CAG which showed diffuse triple vessel disease with calcification in all 3 arteries with very poor flow in distal vessels making bypass surgery a difficult choice. Patient and family were counseled regarding the nature of disease and high-risk procedure of revascularization in view of low ejection fraction, diabetes, kidney disease and calcified vessels. They were not willing for bypass surgery at this age and hence a decision for high-risk angioplasty with IVL assistance for calcium modification was taken.”

IVL was done to treat blockages in the left main and LAD (a major heart artery). Two stents were placed from the left main to the LAD to keep the arteries open. A very small amount of dye was used during the procedure to protect the patient’s kidneys. The patient remained stable after the procedure and was safely discharged the next day, Dr. Sudhanshu added.

About Fortis Healthcare Limited

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, ~4,750 operational beds (including O&M facilities), and over 400 diagnostics centers (including JVs). The Company is listed on the BSE Ltd and National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India. It draws strength from its partnership with a global major and parent company – IHH, to build upon its culture of world-class patient care and superlative clinical excellence. Fortis employs over 23,000 people (including Agilus Diagnostics Limited) 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, Punjab

Haryana Police Mourns the Untimely Demise of IPS Officer Smiti Chaudhary

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Chandigarh, June 28: Smiti Chaudhary , IPS, a dedicated officer of the 2012 Haryana cadre and the Superintendent of Police, Anti-Corruption Bureau, Ambala, passed away suddenly on June 27 in Nashik, Maharashtra. Haryana Director General of Police, Shatrujeet Kapur, along with the entire Haryana Police fraternity, expressed profound sorrow over her demise. Offering condolences, DGP Kapur said, “The department stands firmly with her family in this difficult time. Her passing is a monumental loss to the police family.” He also prayed for the peace of the departed soul.

Mrs. *Smiti Chaudhary* had been unwell for a few days and was on leave during this period. She had traveled to Nashik to be with her husband, Mr. Rajesh Kumar, who serves as the Director of the Maharashtra Police Academy. She breathed her last while undergoing treatment in Nashik. Born on August 15, 1976, she hailed from Dumarkhan Kalan village in Jind, Haryana. A 2012 batch IPS officer, she was posted as SP, Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Ambala, at the time of her untimely demise. She is survived by her husband and two children.

Mrs. *Smiti Chaudhary* was known for her honesty, empathy, and courage. Throughout her career, she remained unwaveringly committed to the principles of justice, transparency, and public service. She demonstrated exceptional dedication and deep commitment to her duties, excelling in several challenging assignments.

DGP Kapur added, “May the departed soul rest in peace. Her contributions and service will forever inspire us to remain steadfast on the path of serving the nation.”

Chandigarh, Punjab

MC Chandigarh bans road cuts during monsoon season from July 1 to September 30, 2025

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Chandigarh:

The Municipal Corporation Chandigarh, in line with its Terms & Conditions for Road Cut permissions, has issued a directive restricting road cuts activities during the upcoming monsoon season.

MC Commissioner Sh Amit Kumar, IAS has passed this order that this shall be effective from July 1 to September 30, 2025 during which no road cut permission shall be granted across Chandigarh except for emergent works, which will be reviewed and considered on a case-to-case basis with the prior approval of the competentauthority.

To ensure public safety and minimize inconvenience during the rains, the following instructions have been issued:

• All ongoing road cut works must be stopped within one week and the affected roads must be properly dressed, leveled, and fully restored before the onset of the monsoon.

• In cases where permissions have already been granted but work has not commenced, such road cutting will not be allowed during the restricted period unless declared emergent and approved by the Commissioner, MCC.

• Any extension of time limit for already granted road cutting permissions during this monsoon period will be considered only with justification and shall be approved at the level of the Executive Engineer, MCC.

The Municipal Corporation urges all concerned departments, contractors, and stakeholders to comply with these instructions in the interest of public safety and to maintain the city’s infrastructure during the monsoon season.