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August 2026

Seva Sankalp Abhiyan
Chandigarh

BJP Launches “Seva Sankalp Abhiyan” in Chandigarh for Public Welfare

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The party formed a state-level team to lead the month-long service initiative. Leaders aim to connect with citizens through eleven distinct welfare programs. Chandigarh: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) recently announced a major public initiative. The party will organize the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan Chandigarh from September 17 to October 17, 2026. Therefore, BJP Chandigarh Pradesh formed a special state-level team. This group will strictly ensure the successful execution of this massive campaign. State President Jatinder Pal Malhotra will confidently lead the entire initiative. Meanwhile, the party appointed Ramveer Bhatti as the primary campaign convener. Bhatti currently serves as the State General Secretary. Furthermore, six co-conveners will assist him in coordinating the state-level activities. These dedicated leaders include Indira Singh, Naresh Panchal, Bharat Kumar, Manish Sharma, Amandeep Singh, and Shivinder Mandhotra. Consequently, the leadership team will manage operations seamlessly down to the booth level. In addition, the extensive campaign features 11 major public programs. These diverse events aim to spread the message of good governance and nation-building. Amandeep Singh will oversee the “Aashirwad Ka Diya” program. Similarly, Manish Sharma leads “25 Crore Bachchon Ke Sapnon Ka Bharat.” Shakti Prakash Devshali manages the “Namo Seva Gatha” initiative. Meanwhile, Indira Singh heads “Aangan Ka Utsav” to engage local families. Furthermore, Sameer Chaku takes charge of “Kahani Badlav Ki.” Arun Sood leads the highly anticipated “Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra.” Naresh Panchal efficiently directs the popular “Seva Jyoti Yatra.” Additionally, Bharat Kumar manages “Seva Mera Yogdan.” Shivinder Mandhotra coordinates the “Seva Setu Abhiyan.” Sanjay Tandon heads “Rangoli Rashtra,” and Saurabh Joshi manages the “Jansevak Mahakumbh.” Ultimately, these structured programs will connect various sections of society. The party workers will actively participate in these community events. Moreover, they will educate the public about ongoing national development efforts. State General Secretary Ramveer Bhatti shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming drive. “The core mantra of the BJP is Seva Hi Sangathan,” Bhatti stated firmly. “We will reach out to every section of society,” Bhatti explained. Additionally, he noted that dedicated workers will ensure public contribution toward nation-building. Therefore, the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan Chandigarh will distinctly highlight the party’s strong organizational strength. Overall, this month-long festival aims to inspire deep social responsibility and public service across the entire region.

Sector-20 Market Chandigarh
Chandigarh

Police-Public Meeting Held in Sector-20 Market to Address Security Concerns

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BJP leader Naresh Arora helped resolve local shopkeepers’ issues during the collaborative event. Officials urged traders to install CCTV cameras and report all crimes. Chandigarh: The local authorities recently held an important community meeting in Sector-20 Market Chandigarh. The Sector-20 Market Association actively co-organized this vital event. Shopkeepers eagerly discussed their daily security issues and local law-and-order concerns. Therefore, the productive gathering proved highly meaningful for everyone involved. BJP leader Naresh Arora actively facilitated the resolution of these local problems. Shopkeepers highlighted several major challenges during the interactive session. Subsequently, Arora presented these specific concerns directly to the police administration. He successfully initiated a structured process to resolve these pressing business issues. Furthermore, senior police officials attended to guide the business community. DSP Abhinandan and Inspector Sarita Rai addressed the large crowd. They strongly appealed to all local shopkeepers to install high-quality CCTV cameras. In addition, the officers urged them to report every single criminal incident immediately. “Reporting every incident helps us identify repeat offenders,” the police officials explained. Moreover, they emphasized that timely reports help law enforcement solve cases much faster. Consequently, traders must prioritize immediate police reports for any suspicious daily activity. Naresh Arora, the BJP Chandigarh State Spokesperson, also shared his thoughts on the effort. “We can strengthen security arrangements only through better coordination,” he clearly stated. Therefore, he emphasized that the police, traders, and the Market Association must work together constantly. Meanwhile, a massive crowd of local business owners attended the significant event. Prominent market figures showed their full support for the new safety initiative. For instance, Luv Jain and BJP Ward No. 18 General Secretary Sandeep Bhatia participated actively. Additionally, Ramesh Batra, Girish Agarwal, Rakesh Kumar Garg, and Shaili Singh joined the vital discussion. Ultimately, this highly successful meeting marked a strong step toward a safer market environment. Overall, the Chandigarh community now feels significantly more secure and heard.

Anil Sharma and Wife Anupama
Chandigarh

George Mason University names innovation centre after Chandigarh entrepreneur Anil Sharma

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George Mason University honours 22nd Century Technologies CEO Anil Sharma and wife Anupama for their contributions to global enterprise and innovation. CHANDIGARH: In a major international recognition for the City Beautiful, Virginia-based George Mason University has named its premier entrepreneurship hub the “Anil and Anupama Sharma Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship” in honour of Chandigarh-born entrepreneur Anil Sharma and his wife Anupama Sharma. Anil Sharma, who currently serves as the CEO of 22nd Century Technologies, has built a prominent career spanning public service in India to leading multi-million dollar federal technology acquisitions in the United States. George Mason University, one of the top public research universities in the United States, is widely recognized for its programs in technology, public policy, research, and enterprise incubation. Fostering Global Entrepreneurship and Research The newly designated Anil and Anupama Sharma Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship is designed to act as a collaborative hub connecting students, faculty members, aspiring founders, and corporate partners. The facility will drive practical research, mentor emerging startups, and nurture leadership across diverse commercial and technology sectors. Reflecting on the milestone, Anil Sharma highlighted the importance of institutional support and community empowerment in fostering enterprise: “Building a business taught me that success is never an individual achievement. People give you opportunities, believe in you and teach you, while communities create the circumstances for your growth. At some point, it becomes your responsibility to create those opportunities for others as well.” Pioneering Chandigarh’s Early IT Infrastructure Born into a modest family and raised alongside six siblings, Sharma completed his higher education at the Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology before entering public service. Between 1989 and 1997, he served as a Systems Analyst and became Chandigarh’s first District Informatics Officer at the National Informatics Centre (NIC). During his tenure, Sharma played a foundational role in: Scaling 22nd Century Technologies and Global Operations Sharma transitioned his technology-driven public administration experience into private enterprise, expanding 22nd Century Technologies (headquartered out of Mohali and the US) into a leading global provider of IT and professional services for commercial entities and US government agencies. In a notable expansion move, Sharma spearheaded the acquisition of British Telecom Federal, the dedicated US government-contracting arm of the British Telecom Group. The renaming of the George Mason University centre caps a multi-decade journey from regional public administration in Chandigarh to impactful international corporate leadership.

Naresh Arora Chandigarh
Chandigarh

Naresh Arora Slams Chandigarh Congress Silence Over Student Crackdowns in Jharkhand and Keralam

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BJP spokesperson Naresh Arora accused Congress leaders of adopting double standards after police used force on protesting youth in non-BJP states. Chandigarh: BJP State Spokesperson Naresh Arora launched a scathing attack on Chandigarh Congress President Harmohinder Singh Lucky on Tuesday. He questioned Lucky’s absolute silence regarding the violent police crackdown on student protesters in Jharkhand and Keralam. Consequently, Arora demanded an immediate explanation for the party’s selective outcry on youth issues. In Jharkhand, security forces recently deployed tear gas, water cannons, and lathi-charges against young protesters marching toward the State Assembly. Because Congress is an active coalition partner in the Jharkhand government, Arora argued that local leaders cannot turn a blind eye. Meanwhile, student demonstrations in Keralam have escalated sharply, with media reports capturing desperate protesters consuming grass and soil to highlight their grievances. “Why is there total silence from you on actions taken against students where Congress holds power?” Arora asked directly. Furthermore, he questioned whether student rights are determined strictly by political affiliation. “When will you finally speak up for the youth of Jharkhand and Keralam?” Arora urged the Congress leadership to abandon its dual political standards immediately. Therefore, he insisted that the party clarify its stance on student rights across all states. Additionally, he asserted that voters deserve accountability rather than convenient political silence. “The Chandigarh Congress President must break his silence now,” Arora stated firmly. “He needs to answer the public about when he will raise his voice for justice for these students.”

BJP Chandigarh Sacred Kalash
Chandigarh

BJP Chandigarh Hands Over Sacred Kalash from Sant Guru Ravidas Ji’s Birthplace to All Six Districts

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BJP Chandigarh has distributed a sacred soil Kalash from Varanasi to six district presidents. Consequently, grand Kalash Yatras will soon promote equality across every local Mandal. CHANDIGARH — In a significant spiritual initiative, the BJP Chandigarh Pradesh hosted a grand ceremony on August 6 as part of the Sant Shiromani Guru Ravidas Ji Samrasta Sankalp Abhiyan. During the event, leaders ceremonially handed over a sacred soil Kalash from Sant Guru Ravidas Ji’s birthplace in Varanasi to all six local district presidents. Furthermore, the campaign aims to spread timeless ideals of social justice, equality, and humanity to every household in the city. Organizers held the event at the Chintpurni Mata Temple in Sector 32 under the leadership of BJP Chandigarh President Jatinder Pal Malhotra. Meanwhile, BJP National Vice President Saudan Singh and Delhi MLA Gajender Singh Yadav served as key guests. After traditional Vedic rituals and prayers, the dignitaries formally presented the sacred vessels to district representatives. Speaking at the gathering, Saudan Singh emphasized the lasting impact of the saint’s vision. “The teachings of Sant Guru Ravidas Ji continue to inspire millions,” Singh stated. “They remain highly relevant in building a harmonious and inclusive society.” Similarly, Malhotra noted that the drive is a mass awareness movement aimed at ending discrimination. Chief Guest Gajender Singh Yadav added that the holy soil serves as a powerful medium for unifying communities. Several prominent leaders attended the gathering, including Campaign Convenor Ramveer Bhatti, former Mayor Ravikant Sharma, and SC Morcha President Amit Khairwal. Following the central ceremony, district officials announced that every Mandal across Chandigarh will now host grand Kalash Yatras. Therefore, these public processions will take the core message of human welfare into every neighborhood. Ultimately, the event concluded with attendees collectively renewing their commitment to an egalitarian society.

ASHRAE Chandigarh Chapter
Chandigarh

Money Khanna Takes Charge as ASHRAE Chandigarh Chapter President at CONVERGE 2026

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The chapter installation ceremony took place alongside a major technical conference on Net Zero and decarbonization in Sector 31. Over 200 industry delegates gathered to discuss sustainable building strategies. CHANDIGARH — Money Khanna formally assumed charge as President of the ASHRAE Chandigarh Chapter for the 2026–27 session on Saturday. The official chapter installation ceremony took place during “CONVERGE 2026,” a technical conference focused on Net Zero and decarbonization in buildings. Hosted at the CII in Sector 31, the gathering marked a significant milestone for regional engineering leaders. In addition to Money Khanna, several key officers stepped into leadership roles. Manpreet Singh took over as President-Elect, while Bhupinder Parmar and Gaurav Dhuria assumed office as Vice Presidents. Meanwhile, Ekta Gupta was installed as Secretary, and Joga Singh accepted the role of Treasurer. Furthermore, an eleven-member Board of Governors joined the new executive team to guide upcoming initiatives. The conference drew more than 200 delegates from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and across India. Consequently, architects, HVAC consultants, manufacturers, developers, and government officials gathered to discuss low-carbon building solutions. Participants actively explored energy-efficient technologies that reduce structural carbon footprints. Eminent industry experts including Ashish Rakheja, Pankaj Dharkar, Richie Mittal, Vikram Murthy, and Ashu Gupta delivered keynote technical presentations. Therefore, sessions highlighted global best practices, smart building envelopes, and sustainable HVAC innovations. “Achieving Net Zero requires immediate collaboration across all engineering and architectural sectors,” stated newly installed President Money Khanna during his opening address. “Furthermore, the ASHRAE Chandigarh Chapter will aggressively promote clean energy solutions across northern India.” Net Zero buildings play a vital role in modern climate strategy. Specifically, these structures minimize energy demand through high-performance systems and integrated renewable power. As a result, they generate as much clean energy annually as they consume, enhancing occupant comfort while significantly lowering carbon emissions. Ultimately, the event established a powerful platform for ongoing knowledge exchange in the region. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers represents professionals across India and maintains a global presence in over 130 countries. Therefore, the newly appointed leadership team plans to accelerate sustainable building standards throughout the coming year.

Mata Bala Sundari Pilgrimage
Chandigarh

BJP Spokesperson Naresh Arora Flags Off Mata Bala Sundari Pilgrimage Bus from Sector 30

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Dozens of enthusiastic devotees embarked on a spiritual journey from Chandigarh to seek blessings at the sacred shrine. Local leaders and residents gathered to celebrate the auspicious occasion with traditional fervor. CHANDIGARH — Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) State Spokesperson Naresh Arora flagged off a special pilgrimage bus from Sector 30 today. The bus carried eager devotees departing for the sacred Mata Bala Sundari temple to seek divine blessings. A large gathering of Sector 30 residents assembled at the venue to show their support. Consequently, the atmosphere turned deeply devotional as the crowd filled the air with enthusiastic chants honoring the deity. While extending his warmest wishes to the departing pilgrims, Naresh Arora highlighted the profound cultural value of such spiritual journeys. “May Mata Rani make everyone’s journey safe and blessed,” Arora stated during the flag-off ceremony. “May she grant happiness, prosperity, and good health to all. Religious pilgrimages serve as a vital medium to strengthen faith, unity, and harmony within our society.” In addition, local community leaders praised the organizers for facilitating smooth travel arrangements for the senior citizens and families in attendance. Therefore, the departure turned into a joyful community event that highlighted local camaraderie and shared traditions. Devotees expressed immense gratitude for the organized tour before beginning their journey. Moreover, many travelers noted that visiting the holy shrine brings immense peace and spiritual renewal to their families. Meanwhile, volunteers ensured that all passengers were comfortable and well-prepared for the road ahead. As the bus pulled away, the crowd cheered loudly and wished the pilgrims a safe passage. Ultimately, the event successfully brought together citizens from all walks of life, reflecting a shared commitment to community spirit and cultural heritage in Chandigarh.

Velvet Clarks Exotica
Tri-City Update

Velvet Clarks Exotica Zirakpur Host “The Grand Kebab” Food Festival

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Week-long culinary extravaganza brings royal kebabs and authentic flavours to The Illusion Zirakpur,Food lovers in the Tricity are in for a treat as Velvet Clarks Exotica Zirakpur announces “The Grand Kebab”, a week-long food festival dedicated to India’s most iconic kebabs. Scheduled from 30th August to 5th September 2025, the festival will be hosted at The Illusion, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, and will be open for both lunch (12 noon – 3 pm) and dinner (7 pm – 11 pm). The specially curated À La Carte menu is set to showcase a wide array of delicacies from across India’s culinary traditions. Guests can savour melt-in-the-mouth classics such as Mutton Burra Kebab, Awadhi Galouti Kebab, and Peshawari Chapli Kebab, along with vegetarian delights like Rajmah ke Galouti Kebab and Corn Seekh Kebab. For those seeking a regal spread, the Shahi Kebab Platter with Ulta Tawa Paratha promises a complete royal experience. Speaking about the upcoming festival, Maninderjit Singh Sibal, General Manager, Velvet Clarks Exotica Zirakpur, said:“With ‘The Grand Kebab’, we are bringing a royal dining experience by reviving age-old recipes with authentic flavours – a true tribute to India’s rich culinary heritage.” With its luxurious ambience, impeccable service, and authentic preparations, the festival aims to create a unique gastronomic journey for both connoisseurs and casual diners. “The Grand Kebab” not only highlights the diversity of Indian kebabs but also reinforces Velvet Clarks Exotica’s commitment to curating premium dining experiences for food enthusiasts in the region.

Mohali, Tri-City Update

Epique Real Ventures Honoured as ‘Emerging Start-Up of the Year’ in Real Estate Advisory

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Punjab-based consultancy sets new benchmarks in clarity, credibility, and client trust across Northern India Mohali,Epique Real Ventures, a leading real estate consultancy firm from Punjab, has been honoured with the ‘Emerging Start-Up of the Year Award’ in the category of Real Estate Advisory and Consulting. The award was presented by Mr. Aman Arora, Cabinet Minister of Punjab, in recognition of the firm’s pioneering contribution to reshaping the real estate advisory ecosystem across Northern India. Founded by Mr. Himanshu Pant, a Global Indian Award recipient with over two decades of leadership in India’s real estate sector, and Mrs. Ruchi Pant, a National Education Excellence Award winner and former senior banker at ICICI Bank and Axis Bank, Epique Real Ventures has rapidly established itself as a trusted name in the sector. Accepting the award, Mr. Himanshu Pant, Founder & Managing Director, said, “This honour is a recognition of our vision to transform Punjab’s real estate ecosystem through clarity, credibility, and client-centricity. We dedicate this award to our clients, partners, and our dynamic team whose commitment has made this milestone possible.” Mrs. Ruchi Pant, Co-Founder & CEO, added, “At Epique Real Ventures, we view every client relationship as a long-term partnership. This award strengthens our resolve to curate value, craft legacies, and cultivate trust across the real estate spectrum.” Currently operational in Mohali and Ludhiana, the firm has ambitious expansion plans into Amritsar to further strengthen its footprint in Punjab. Its pioneering ‘Integrated Value Architecture’ combines project conceptualisation, regulatory facilitation, investment advisory, and portfolio management. By leveraging its Strategic Clarity Framework, the company delivers data-driven insights, financial due diligence, and compliance verification—raising new standards in accountability and transparency. This recognition cements Epique Real Ventures’ position as a catalyst for premium, transparent, and future-ready real estate advisory services in Punjab and beyond.

Paras Health Panchkula
Panchkula, Tri-City Update

Paras Health Performs Complex Kidney Transplant, Gives New Life to Critical Patient

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Panchkula hospital team successfully transplants kidney in high-risk case, showcasing medical excellence and the power of organ donation Panchkula,In a remarkable medical achievement, Paras Health Panchkula has successfully performed a complex kidney transplant, giving 49-year-old Anand Prakash Mishra from Delhi a new lease of life. The patient had been battling chronic kidney disease (CKD) along with diabetes, high blood pressure, severe heart disease, and fluid accumulation in the lungs. Dependent on dialysis, he was considered a high-risk case. In a heartwarming act of courage, his wife Rajni Nisha decided to donate her kidney, saving her husband’s life. The transplant was performed using advanced laparoscopic surgery, allowing her to recover swiftly and return home within three days. Mishra’s health has shown rapid improvement—his kidney functions normalized, lung complications eased, and heart performance improved significantly. “This was an extremely challenging case,” said Dr. Sunil Kumar, Director – Kidney Transplant. “The patient’s recovery is the result of family trust, the donor’s selfless courage, and our team’s dedicated efforts. It reflects Paras Health’s commitment to world-class care and providing critically ill patients with a second chance at life.” Dr. Pankaj Mittal, Facility Director, added that the hospital has been consistently performing kidney transplants for the past two years, including many high-risk cases. “This success strengthens our commitment to advanced healthcare services and medical excellence in the region,” he said. The case also underscores the importance of organ donation, which not only saves lives but also brings hope to thousands of patients awaiting transplants.

Mohali, Tri-City Update

Fortis Hospital Mohali Launches Institute of Genomic Medicine for Advanced Cancer Care

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New genomic medicine institute to enhance precision, prevention, and personalized cancer treatment in India Chandigarh, August 30:In a major step towards revolutionizing cancer care in India, Fortis Hospital Mohali has launched the Institute of Genomic Medicine, offering world-class precision in diagnosis, prevention, and targeted treatment of cancer. The initiative aims to identify genetic variations in genes, chromosomes, and DNA patterns that trigger cancer. By doing so, doctors can determine the risk of life-threatening complications early and recommend timely, customized therapies. The institute will function under the leadership of Dr. Rajeev Bedi, Director, Medical Oncology, and Dr. Ravneet Kaur, Associate Consultant, Medical Genetics, supported by a team of specialists working on research-driven genomic techniques. “Genomic testing typically begins with samples of blood, saliva, or tumor tissues. Using next-generation sequencing and liquid biopsy, we can study tumor genes, detect faulty wiring or mutations, and design therapies that are more effective while minimizing side effects,” explained Dr. Kaur at the launch. This technology also identifies inherited genetic changes such as BRCA1/2 mutations, which may put patients and their families at a lifelong higher risk of developing certain cancers. Early detection allows for preventive screenings, lifestyle modifications, and timely interventions, ensuring proactive cancer care. Highlighting the importance of genomics, Dr. Bedi added, “No two cancers are alike. With genomics, cancer therapy is moving from standard protocols to highly personalized solutions.” The Institute of Genomic Medicine marks a significant advancement in India’s healthcare ecosystem, positioning Fortis Mohali as a leader in precision oncology and offering hope for thousands of cancer patients across the country.

Panchkula, Tri-City Update

5th Panchkula District Shastrang Championship Concludes Successfully

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Over 100 young athletes showcase talent and discipline in two-day martial arts event at Panchkula. Panchkula,The 5th Panchkula District Shastrang Championship concluded successfully on August 23–24 at Shastrang Academy, Sector-16, Panchkula, with nearly 100 athletes from various schools participating in multiple categories. The two-day martial arts event highlighted not only the sporting spirit of the youth but also the growing popularity of Shastrang as a discipline of self-defense and character-building. Grand Master Bikram Singh Thapa (9th Degree Black Belt), expressing joy over the players’ enthusiasm, said, “Every year, the energy and competitive level of children continues to grow. Shastrang is not just a martial art—it instills discipline, confidence, and respect, values that shape life beyond the sport.” Participants competed across Under-10, Under-14, Under-17, Under-19, Under-22, and Above-22 (boys and girls) categories in events such as Target Drill, Defense Drill, Air Shield Combat, Combat Combo, and Speed Combat. The closing ceremony and medal distribution were graced by Anurag Aggarwal, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Haryana Government (Public Works, Irrigation & Water Resources, and Advisor, Haryana Saraswati Heritage Board). Addressing the participants, he emphasized the importance of self-defense training in today’s world and encouraged parents to motivate children to take up martial arts for building confidence, discipline, and physical fitness. The championship witnessed remarkable performances: The championship concluded on a high note, with winners celebrated for their dedication and skill, and Shastrang reaffirmed as a growing martial arts discipline shaping the youth of Haryana.