Category Archives: Punjab

By recognizing their inner strength, young students can fly in amber: Raj Lali Gill

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.

Inter School Basketball: Sardar Bhagwant Singh Memorial Basketball Trophy-2024 to be held on November 6-13

Chandigarh, October 28

This year’s Sardar Bhagwant Singh Memorial Basketball Trophy, a landmark event as it celebrates the 10th season of the tournament, will be held on November 6 to 13, 2024 at Indoor Basketball Court, GMADA, Sports complex, Sector 78, Mohali. Players from top schools of tricity will compete among themselves to lift the prestigious trophy.  

A significant milestone in the sporting calendar of the tricity region, this tournament over the decade has built a reputation for nurturing young basketball talents, fostering school spirit, and promoting healthy competition among the best schools in the area.

Sharing details with media persons here today at Chandigarh Press Club, Vikramjeet Singh Mamik, Administrator, Vivek High School, said: “The tournament will provide a platform for young athletes to shine across three age groups: U-12 Boys and Girls; U-14 Boys and Girls, and U-17 Boys and Girls, thus ensuring that students of different age groups get a chance to compete in their respective divisions, with equal opportunities for both boys and girls.”

The tournament will be held from November 6 to November 13, 2024 at Indoor Basketball Court, GMADA, Sports complex, Sector 78, Mohali. As many as 50 schools have been invited to compete.  Matches will run throughout the day, showcasing sporting talent from multiple schools across the region. Each day, spectators can expect 12 to 14 matches, featuring fast-paced and intense basketball action.

Mr. Mamik further informed: “To commemorate a decade of success, we have introduced cash prizes for the top three teams in each category for the very first time. A total prize pool of Rs 2,70,000 will be awarded, making it one of the most rewarding school-level sports events in the region. This enhancement is aimed at recognizing the hard work and dedication of the students and coaches who contribute to the competitive spirit of the game.”

Dr. Amar Jyoti Chawla, Principal, Vivek High School, Mohali, averred that the milestone celebration will also acknowledge the role of this tournament in elevating basketball’s profile among schools and encouraging more young athletes to pursue the sport at both recreational and competitive levels.

Notable basketball players who have played in the tournament and achieved great heights in their careers include Sahaij Pratap Singh Sekhon, who played in the Asian Cup recently. Apart from Sekhon, in men’s, two more players have shined – Jashan Bahra and Ansh Rawat both became national players. What’s more, in the women’s category, Tarushi Bahl and Anamika Sachdeva also  became national players. Many more such players have used the tournament’s exposure to grow their basketball careers.

Dr. Chawla added, “Reputed schools from the tricity region will participate in the tournament, continuing the tradition of involving the best talent from schools in Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula.”

Jayata Chopra, Cultural Coordinator, Vivek High School, Mohali, said: “This year’s tournament promises to be an unforgettable experience for both players and spectators, with healthy competition, exciting prizes, and a celebration of a decade of basketball excellence in the region.”

Talking about the tournament format, Vishal Sharma, Head, Sports Department, Vivek High School, Mohali, said the tournament will follow an elimination or knock-out format. This system ensures that every game carries high stakes, with each team having only one chance to advance to the next round. Teams must perform at their optimum level to survive and make it to the final stages of the tournament, making every match a thrilling contest, he said.

Sharma said that the most anticipated part of the tournament—the quarterfinals, semi-finals, and finals—will take place during the final three days of the tournament. These decisive matches will determine the champions and bring the tournament to a thrilling conclusion, he said.

As many as 24 schools have already registered and for those who want to participate, registration is on. The interested schools can contact Vivek High School, Mohali for the same.

List of participating teams till date (Registration is still going on)

St. Peters Senior Secondary School, Sector 37 B, Chandigarh;St. Anee’s Convent School, Sector 32 C, Chandigarh; Saupin’s School, Sector 32 A, Chandigarh; Sacred Heart Senior Secondary School, Sector 26, Chandigarh; St. Joseph’s Sr. Sec. School, Sector 44 D, Chandigarh; Delhi Public School, Sector 40 C, Chandigarh; St. Soldiers School, Sector 16, Panchkula; Shishu Niketan Public School, Sector 43, Chandigarh; K V High Grounds, Chandigarh; Police Public School, Jagatpura, Mohali;Learning Paths School, Sector 67, Mohali; Manav Mangal Smart School, Phase 10, Mohali; Smart Wonders School, Sector 71, Mohali; Shemrock School, Sector 69, Mohali; Yadavindra Public School, Sector 51, Mohali; Shivalik Public School, Phase 6, Mohali; Shishu Niketan Public School, Sector 66, Mohali; Amity International School, Sector 79, Mohali; Manav Rachna International School, Sector 82 A, Mohali; Saupin’s School, Sector 70, Mohali; Mind Tree School, Kharar; Delhi Public School, Mohali; Vivek High School, Sector 38, Chandigarh and Vivek High School, Mohali.

Alarming Upsurge in youngsters affected by cardiac ailments suggest Dr T S Mahant

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 HospitalMohali, 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.

Patients with complex urological cancers successfully treatedvia advanced robot-aided surgery at Fortis Mohali

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.

PVR INOX launches Mohali’s First 4D Cinema experience with cutting-edge 4K laser and 7-screen multiplex

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.”

Navdeep Kaur wins Mrs. India Supranational, to represent India in the global competition

Punjab government’s single mother Navdeep Kaur has set an extraordinary example for women. In a press interaction at the Chandigarh Press Club, accompanied by her mentor and Mrs. India Supranational founder Zoya Siraj Sheikh, Navdeep shared her journey. As the single mother of a 4-year-old, she narrated her inspiring victory story. She emphasized how single parenting fosters a strong bond between parent and child. Single parents tend to be more attentive, ensuring their children never feel the absence of a second parent, which often makes them more alert and devoted.

“Perhaps this attentiveness helped me answer the contest questions with precision and win the title,” Navdeep said. “Self-defense and self-reliance are essential for every woman, enabling them to face challenges with ease and turn them into opportunities.”

Navdeep believes her challenging life story can serve as an inspiration for other single mothers or widowed women. Representing Punjab in Mrs. India Supranational, she has now won the national title and will represent India on the international stage.

“Women must also learn to say ‘no’ to avoid uncomfortable situations and prevent unnecessary difficulties,” she added.

Her ultimate goal is to send a message to women in India and across the world that they are not weak but strong. “This is why God has blessed me, standing by me in my hard work, and helping me succeed,” Navdeep concluded.

Fastway announces launch of Next Gen IPTV Set Top Box

Chandigarh: Fastway, a leading provider of digital cable TV & broadband services, has announced the launch of Next Gen IPTV Set Top Box, that is set to revolutionize the way consumers experience entertainment.  The all-new IPTV STB offers a wide array of features designed to enhance the overall entertainment experience. Subscribers will have access to over 500+ live TV channels, Including 100+ channels with popular regional content ensuring that there is always something to watch for every member of the family.  The powerful Catch Up TV feature allows users to access content up to 7days, ensuring they never miss out on their favorite shows.Whether you missed a live broadcast or want to re-watch your favorite part of a show, Catch Up TV has you covered.

 The Video on Demand (VOD) feature provides access to a staggering 10,000+ movies giving users unlimited options for entertainment, said Dr Prem Ojha, CEO.

 He expressed his excitement about the launch of the IPTV STB. “We are extremely delighted to bring to you next gen IPTV STB and offers world class  converged services including high speed unlimited Broadband , Video , Voice and OTT on a single platform .Launch of IPTV services will further enhance value for our consumers and take their experience to next level.

Gurdeep Singh, Founder & Chairman, Jujhar Group commented, “This launch represents a power-packed value proposition that the brand proudly offers to its consumers. It delivers the most cost-effective and affordable form of entertainment. The brand is deeply committed to understanding and addressing the needs of its customers, consistently providing the best solutions tailored to enhance their viewing experience.”

The IPTV STB, will also facilitate access to OTT content, thereby presenting a variety of premium regional and national content from top providers such as Hotstar, SonyLIV, ZEE5, Chupal, and many more. From regional and national channels to truly unlimited data and free OTT apps, with HD voice calls, IPTV STB offers something that is really versatile and facile.

The launch of IPTV STB underlines Fastway’s commitment to delivering innovative and high-quality digital services to consumers. With its unparalleled features and content offerings, the IPTV STB is certainly going to rewrite the rules of entertainment and present an unrivaled viewing experience to users.

About Fastway: Fastway services is a leading cable service provider offering a seamless blend of entertainment and connectivity. With their cutting-edge digital TV services .Users enjoy a vast array of live TV channels, on-demand content, and streaming services, all in high definition. Fastway’s commitment to innovation ensures an intuitive user experience, featuring easy navigation, personalized recommendations, and multi-device access.

Mission Rojgar for three lakh youth

Chandigarh: The State of Working India 2023: Social Identities and Labor Market Outcomes report said that although the unemployment rate managed to touch the trough created by the pandemic, it remained as high as 42.3 per cent for graduates under 25 years of age.
More than three lakh youth of the country will get employment under the Super Thirty Rojgar Mission. This mission is to provide employment to those youth who are facing problems for employment due to lack of skills. A Square has come up with this mission. Mission will not only develop the skills of the youth and make them employable within thirty days for just Rs 30, but will also give them a platform through which the youth can get employment.

In a press conference organized at Hotel Mountview, Chandigarh, educationist Ankit Malhotra said that there is no shortage of employment in the country. There is employment but there is a shortage of skilled people for employment. He said that if a youth develops his command only on a foreign language, he will earn seventy to eighty thousand rupees in a month. He said that no special degree is required for this. He said that he himself is an expert in French and before launching this scheme, he had done a trial run on some youth.

He said that during the skill training, he will provide air ticketing training, software training, visa filing practical course, digital marketing training, foreign language training, artificial intelligence as well as stock market training. Especially for the financially challenged children, his plan is to provide training to these children at an amount of Re 1 per day. Some standards have definitely been set for this. Those who have to follow. He said that he has done Masters in French from Punjab University, Chandigarh and has obtained a degree in Foreign Languages from Embassy Private College. Along with this, he has done Diploma in Air Ticketing from Montreal, Canada.

A Square MD Maninder Kaur said that she got the most benefit from the vocational course. It was always her desire to teach as many vocational courses as possible to the youth. She said that the youth in Punjab are getting disoriented. they dream of going abroad, but they probably do not know that they can earn more money in their own country than abroad, provided they have special skills.

Completion of various canal water supply projects will significantly enhance the state’s water supply network: Balkar Singh

IEP Chandigarh

          Reviewing the ongoing canal water supply projects, Minister Balkar Singh emphasized the commitment of the Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, to improving civic amenities for residents. He said that with completion of ongoing canal water supply projects in cities, there will be a major improvement in the State’s water supply network.

          During the review at Municipal Bhawan Chandigarh today, the Minister directed the India Heads and Project Managers of L&T Company to expedite the completion of these projects.

          In the presence of senior department officers, the Cabinet Minister highlighted the ongoing project to provide canal water supply to Amritsar and Jalandhar residents, along with the initiative for 24×7 canal water supply in Patiala.

          The Minister urged L&T Company to implement innovative ideas in urban areas to minimize disruption to city dwellers.

          Principal Secretary of the Local Government Department Ajoy Sharma, PMIDC CEO Deepti Uppal, and Director of the Local Government Department Uma Shankar Gupta, along with other officials, were present on this occasion.

VB nabs MC employee for taking Rs 6,000 bribe

IEP Chandigarh February 7

          Aiming to curb the menace of corruption in the state, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) on Wednesday nabbed Harish Kumar, a part time employee of the Municipal Corporation (MC) Ludhiana red handed  while he was accepting second instalment of bribe of Rs 6,000.

          Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the state VB said the above mentioned accused has been apprehended on the complaint of Jagdish Singh, a resident of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Ludhiana.

          He further added that the complainant has approached the VB and stated that he had to procure Tax Superintendent Register Number 1 (TS-1) certificate from MC Ludhiana for getting transfer an ancestral house in his name. He met an employee Harish Kumar who introduced himself as a clerk in House Tax branch of the corporation and he demanded bribe money of Rs 10,000 from him for getting issued TS-1 of his house from the concerned junior engineer. The complainant further alleged that the accused employee has took Rs 4000 from him on the spot and told to give the balance money Rs 6000 at the time of handing over TS-1 to him. The complainant informed that the accused employee was demanding the remaining amount through GooglePay but he didn’t know how to use the same and asked him to take the cash. He recorded the entire conversation in his mobile and handed over the VB as evidence so that the accused could be get trapped.

          The spokesperson informed that after preliminary investigation of this complaint a VB team from Ludhiana range laid a trap and the above mentioned accused apprehended while he was accepting bribe of Rs 6,000 from the complainant in the presence of two official witnesses. In this regard a case under section 7, 7A of Prevention of Corruption Act and 420 of IPC has been registered against the said accused at VB police station Ludhiana. He would be produced in the competent court tomorrow. Further investigation into this case was under progress and role of other officials would also be probed, he said.