Mohali: The third and final day of Shiksha Mahakumbh 2025 concluded at NIPER Mohali with powerful reflections on the theme “Bharat @ 2047,” envisioning India’s educational roadmap for the centenary of independence. The Chief Guest Kavinder Gupta, LG, UT of Ladakh, said that, “ Education is the foundation of a self-reliant and prosperous Bharat. The Bharat of 2047 will be defined by the minds we nurture today, Let education be the force that bridges our glorious heritage with a luminous future.” Dilaram Chauhan, General Secretary, Vidya Bharti (North Zone), delivered the Keynote Address, highlighting the importance of integrating national vision with local action.

Bal Kishan, Joint Organising Secretary, Vidya Bharti , North Zone said, “The Shiksha Mahakumbh has become a living example of collaboration—between schools, universities, and society,”

Prof. Dulal Panda, Director, NIPER Mohali, shared his three-day experience of hosting the Shiksha Mahakumbh. He said that as India envisions Bharat @ 2047, academia must lead with scientific rigor, interdisciplinary collaboration, and societal relevance. He emphasized that the true purpose of education is to transform knowledge into impact.

Prof. Pawan Kumar Singh emphasized, “Education must integrate competence with character and research with responsibility. The goal of higher learning is to prepare leadership capable of nation-building.”

A report outlining the key takeaways and the roadmap for future editions of the Shiksha Mahakumbh was presented by Prof. (Dr.) Thakur S.K.R , Director, DHE. The event also featured an award ceremony recognizing outstanding educators, researchers, and student innovators for their exemplary contributions to the field of education

The event was concluded with the symbolic handover of the Shiksha Mahakumbh baton from NIPER Mohali to NIT Hamirpur which will be the host institute for Shiksha Mahakumbh 2026, marking the continuation of this educational movement.

Mohali: Shiksha Mahakumbh 2025 began today at NIPER Mohali with the inspiring theme “Classroom to Society: Building a Healthier World through Education” The first day of the three-day event set the tone for a transformative dialogue on community participation, values-based learning, and national development through education.

The inaugural session was graced by Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab, as the Chief Guest, and Prof. R.P. Tiwari, Vice-Chancellor, Central University of Punjab, as the Guest of Honour. The dignitaries were welcomed by Prof. Dulal Panda, Director, NIPER Mohali, who emphasized the role of academia in shaping responsible citizens for nation building.

Shri Deshraj Sharma, General Secretary, Vidya Bharti, spoke about the Shiksha Mahakumbh initiative and its mission to foster holistic, value-based education. Delivering the Keynote Address, Shri K.N. Raghunandan, Organising Secretary, Vidya Bharti (Ucch Shiksha Sansthan), highlighted the importance of connecting schools with communities to rekindle India’s ancient gurukul ethos.

“Education must not be confined to classrooms—it must touch hearts, homes, and communities,” said Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab. “Our schools should inspire not just academic growth but national consciousness.”

“Community engagement is the soul of education,” added Prof. R.P. Tiwari. “When society takes ownership of education, learning becomes deeply rooted and meaningful.”

The afternoon sessions featured 7 Conclaves including Vice-Chancellor and Directors conclave, Media conclave and Civil Society conclave. More than 110 Research Papers were presented on 7 tracks. Over 30 Invited Speakers shared their views on Democracy, Development and Governance. A grand exhibit of the Student Projects was done , where students presented innovations inspired by sustainable development and cultural values. The day concluded with networking sessions, exhibition visits, and an exchange of ideas that underlined collaboration as the key to transforming education.

Mohali: Day 2 of Shiksha Mahakumbh 2025 at NIPER Mohali focused on “Academia – Industry – Society Interface” fostering collaboration among educators, innovators, and social leaders to align education with national progress. The morning began with yoga and an interactive breakfast, followed by a Panel Discussion featuring Smt. Geeta Ahuja, Secretary, Vidya Bharti North Zone, and Shri Virender Walia, Treasurer, Vidya Bharti North Zone. The discussion emphasized practical learning, innovation ecosystems, and strengthening moral foundations in education. The inaugural session began with a Welcome Address by Prof. Dulal Panda, Director, NIPER Mohali, who reiterated the institute’s commitment to nurturing interdisciplinary research and societal impact. Shri Vijay Nadda, Organising Secretary, Vidya Bharti North Zone, introduced Shiksha Mahakumbh and highlighted Vidya Bharti’s efforts in building bridges between traditional knowledge systems and modern academic frameworks.

Prof. S.P. Bansal, Prof. Ryan Altman, and Prof. Kailash Chander Sharma shared their insights on how collaboration between academia and industry can drive transformative education and national development.

Prof. S.P. Bansal stressed that true education must combine intellect with character. “Industry and academia are not separate worlds—they are partners in building the future,” he said.

Afternoon sessions continued with 7 Conclaves, 70 Research Paper Presentations, and a National Conference featuring innovations in technology, sustainability, and pedagogy.

The prize distribution ceremony for the winners of each category of the DHE English Olympiad was conducted. Over 10,000 students participated in this Olympiad from various schools across North India.

The day wrapped up with a spirit of togetherness, as participants shared ideas and explored exhibits that celebrated partnership in education.

Chandigarh, October 25, 2025 : Bengaluru is poised to transform into the vibrant epicenter of India’s ancient martial arts and rich cultural traditions, as the nation’s most exceptional sports talents and cultural virtuosos converge for a monumental national gathering from November 7 to 9, 2025. The prestigious event, 2nd National Cultural Pythian Games, promises to shape the future trajectory of the sport across the country.

            During this exhilarating sporting extravaganza at the GKVK, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, the National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), the oldest national Gatka governing body affiliated with World Gatka Federation and Asian Gatka Federation, would host its 2nd Federation Gatka Cup. This event would be held concurrently with 2nd National Cultural Pythian Games, in a strategic partnership with the Pythian Council of India (PCI). This dual event is meticulously designed to propel the ancient game of Gatka onto a prominent global platform, he added.

            The PCI chairman Bijender Goel and president Shantanu Agrahari commended the extensive collaboration with all traditional sports and cultural organizations, hailing the Pythian Games as a landmark initiative that empowers indigenous sports and forges structured pathways for aspiring young athletes to ascend on the international stage. The PCI would provide logistical support, accommodation, meals and official tournament kits, thereby ensuring impeccable professional standards are maintained throughout the prestigious competition.

            Disclosing this, the NGAI president Harjeet Singh Grewal, a State Awardee, announced that during this dual championship, the NGAI would select a national Gatka squad. These Gatkabaz would represent the nation at India’s debut in 1st International Pythian Cultural Games in Moscow next year. He elaborated that participants would not only fiercely vie for medals but would also be honored with dual certification.

            Gatka promoter Grewal, who also serves as vice-president of PCI, confirmed that the competitions would showcase formidable under-19 Gatka events from over ten states, who would demonstrate their prowess across in Gatka-Soti and Farrie-Soti disciplines in both individual and team formats. He further added that all gold medalists would be granted direct selection into the Indian contingent for the first International Pythian Cultural Games, describing it as a transformative milestone in Gatka’s illustrious global journey.

            “This championship marks a defining chapter in Gatka’s progress, from a revered traditional martial art to a recognized international sport,” stated Sukhchain Singh, acting president of NGAI, emphasizing that it is not merely a competition but a resounding statement of India’s profound cultural confidence and exceptional athletic excellence.

            He added that since its founding in 2004, the NGAI has tirelessly championed the preservation, regulation and modernization of this ancient martial discipline. Through dynamic international collaborations and visionary initiatives like the Pythian Games partnership, the NGAI seeks to irrevocably embed Gatka within the global sporting landscape while meticulously safeguarding its profound spiritual and cultural ethos.

            Concluding, Harjeet Singh Grewal declared, “This integrated championship is a watershed moment for Gatka. We are not merely organizing a tournament; we are launching India’s distinguished Gatka ambassadors onto the world stage, where revered tradition magnificently meets triumphant glory.” He added that the thrilling display of impeccable Gatka skills, unwavering discipline, and masterful martial artistry will powerfully symbolize India’s dynamic living cultural legacy on the world stage.

Chandigarh, September 16

TiE Chandigarh, in collaboration with Sahayak Associates, is set to host its flagship evening “Parivartan ka Utsav – Udaan’ of women entrepreneurs on Friday, September 19, 2025, from 4 PM – 7 PM at Chandigarh Club, Sector 1, Chandigarh.

Dedicated to celebrating resilience, innovation, and impact, this exclusive evening will bring together inspiring journeys, entrepreneurial pitches, and exhibitions by women-led enterprises, creating a platform that unites voices from self-help groups, startups, and established ventures across Punjab and beyond.

Speaking on the occasion,  Puneet Verma, President, TiE Chandigarh, said, Parivartan ka Utsav – Udaan is not just an event but a movement to celebrate and empower women entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of business and society. Adding to this, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, the Semi-Finals of the TiE Women Global Pitch Competition will be hosted, where top 5 finalists of TiE Chandigarh will be awarded cash prizes worth Rs. 5 Lakh in Finale round.”

The evening will begin with a Special Conversation featuring:  Divita Juneja, Actress & Entrepreneur, Ms. Himani Arora, Founder – Studio Himani Arora and would be Moderated by Opinder Kaur Gill, Entrepreneur & Community Builder.

The event will feature Gurpreet Kaur Deo, Community Affairs Division, Punjab, as a distinguished speaker, along with two thought-provoking panel discussions: “Leap of Faith: From Side Hustle to Sustainable Business” featuring:  Nanki Aurora Singh, Founder – The Secret Ice Cream Society;  Ritu Kochhar, Founder – Inter National Institute of Fashion Design (INIFD);  Akshina Jindal, Founder & CEO – Bubble Me, Moderated by  Tanushree Gupta, Co-Chair TiE Women & Founder – Think People First

Adding depth to the program, women entrepreneur pitches from Punjab and exhibition by women-led enterprises will spotlight the innovation and creativity that drive the entrepreneurial ecosystem. This initiative is being led by the TiE Chandigarh Women Core Team.

Adding a unique dimension to the evening,  Shuchi Singh, Dance Movement Therapist, will present an experiential session titled “Power of Movement”, highlighting how expression and resilience come alive through dance, creativity, and the body’s natural rhythm.

Pooja Nayar, Chair – TiE Women Chandigarh, said, “TiE Women Chandigarh is proud to host Parivartan Ka Utsav – Udaan of Women Entrepreneurs, an event that signifies transformation, empowerment, and the rise of women as changemakers. The theme reflects a shift in mindset—recognizing women not just as participants but as leaders driving innovation, building enterprises, and contributing to the economy. Through powerful pitches, stories of resilience, and a showcase of women-led ventures, the evening aims to inspire collaboration, strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and accelerate the impact of women entrepreneurs on society and business.”

Co-Chairs including Tanushree, Co-Chair TiE Women & Founder – Think People First, Shalini Saini, Co-Founder, Busy Bucket, Ekta Gupta, Founder Parijai Genus and Isha Taneja, CEO of Complere Infosystem are also a part of this team.

Global Lead, Ritika Singh, Founder – Kontent Factory ((Executive Member, TiE Chandigarh & Member, TiE Global Women Program) said, “It’s heartening to see valuable platforms for women that talk business and entrepreneurship. Women need communities that don’t just make them seen and heard but also valued as innovators, change makers and employment generators. Personally, I would like to see women as nation builders – whether inside or outside the house.

The executive council members including Puneet Verma-President, Brahm Alreja- Vice President, Ravi Sharma-General Secretary and Vishal Kedia- Joint Secretary were also present.

Adding to this, Sandeep Sahni, Founder of Sahayak Associates, shared, “We are delighted to collaborate with TiE Chandigarh on this remarkable initiative. At Sahayak Associates, our vision aligns with empowering women to secure their futures and scale new heights in their entrepreneurial journeys.”

Prerna Kalra, Entrepreneur– TiE Chandigarh, added, “This initiative is a testament to the strength and creativity of women entrepreneurs. Udaan represents courage, innovation, and the power of collective growth. By providing a stage for women-led startups and enterprises to showcase their ideas and journeys, we are not only celebrating their achievements but also paving the way for future generations of women leaders.”

Chandigarh, September 9:

 Punjab Cabinet Minister and Aam Aadmi Party State President Mr. Aman Arora today expressed his profound disappointment over the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “paltry and insulting” relief package of Rs. 1600 crores for a state staring at losses exceeding Rs. 20,000 crores from catastrophic floods. The Prime Minister was visiting the flood-ravaged state, on Tuesday.

Mr. Arora did not mince words, accusing the PM of delivering a “cruel joke” to the people of Punjab instead of the meaningful national response they had hoped for.

“The Prime Minister came, saw, and offered a pittance,” Arora stated. “While our farmers stand amidst the ruins of their lives—their homes, their crops, their livestock washed away—the Centre’s response is not just inadequate, it is a blatant insult. Rs. 1600 crore is a slap in the face of every citizen who has lost everything.”

He said that the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government has been demanding the immediate release of Rs 60,000 crore in stalled funds for the state’s survival and Rs. 20,000 crore for flood relief package but this token amount makes a mockery of the scale of destruction. It reveals a blatant disregard for the plight of Punjabis.

“The soul of Punjab, our agriculture, has been shattered,” said an emotional Mr. Aman Arora, “The crops our farmers nurtured like their own children have been wiped out just 15-20 days before harvesting. There is no chance of resowing. Our farmers have lost an entire season’s income.” He highlighted that a total of 4.80 lakh acres of agricultural land has been affected and the worst-hit is paddy, with over 3.71 lakh acres completely submerged.

The floods, the worst since 1988, have claimed 52 precious human lives and directly affected nearly 4 lakh people across more than 2000 villages, the scale of destruction demands monumental efforts to rebuild.

He demanded that the Central Government should immediately reassess the damage with a sense of urgency and responsibility, and announce a comprehensive relief package that truly reflects the magnitude of this disaster and the value of Punjab’s contribution to India.

Highlighting the stark contrast between Punjab’s historic contributions and the Centre’s neglect in this hour of need, Mr. Aman Arora said, “from the freedom struggle to feeding the nation, Punjab has always been the nation’s sword and shield. The state’s farmers have ensured India’s food security for decades, and our youth have valiantly guarded its borders. Yet, when our own land is submerged and our people are suffering, the Government of India’s response is just dismissive.”