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Chandigarh News

Narcotics Anonymous Conference Chandigarh
Chandigarh

Chandigarh to Host Regional Table Conference on Drug Recovery Awareness

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Narcotics Anonymous India highlights de-addiction efforts, announces three-day regional conference in Chandigarh. Chandigarh, March 9: The Society of Service Narcotics Anonymous (SOSONA), also known as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) India, highlighted its ongoing efforts to support people struggling with drug addiction and announced a Regional Table Conference during a press conference held at the Chandigarh Press Club, Sector-27 on Monday. The organization informed that the three-day conference will take place from March 9 to March 11 at Kisan Bhawan in Sector-35, Chandigarh. Volunteers and members of Narcotics Anonymous from different parts of the country are expected to participate in the event. The conference will focus on strengthening de-addiction services, expanding awareness campaigns, and spreading the message of hope and recovery among people battling substance abuse. Speaking on the occasion, SOSONA Chairperson Karamveer Singh said the organization remains committed to spreading a simple yet powerful message of recovery. He emphasized that Narcotics Anonymous believes any person struggling with addiction can stop using drugs, overcome the desire to use, and find a new way to live. “Through events like the Regional Table Conference and continuous community efforts, we want to ensure that people struggling with addiction know that recovery is possible and help is available,” he said. Narcotics Anonymous is a global non-profit fellowship where individuals recovering from addiction support each other through a 12-step recovery program. The organization works on the principle that “one addict helps another addict,” with mutual support, shared experiences, and encouragement playing a key role in recovery. Membership is open to anyone who wishes to stop using drugs, and there are no membership fees. Globally, Narcotics Anonymous conducts over 72,000 weekly meetings across more than 140 countries, making it one of the world’s largest peer-support recovery networks. In India, NA began in 1983 with the first meeting in Mumbai, and the network has steadily expanded over the past four decades. Currently, 299 groups across the country conduct around 471 weekly meetings, helping thousands of individuals move toward a drug-free life. According to Sumit, Area Public Information Chair of Chandigarh, the network has also grown significantly in the Tricity region. Presently, eight active groups in Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula conduct 17 meetings every week. Each meeting typically sees 40 to 50 participants, while six to eight new individuals regularly begin their recovery journey. More than 275 members in the region have long-term clean time and service experience, providing guidance to others in recovery. Meetings are organized at multiple locations across Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula to make them accessible. In addition, the Unity Group hosts online meetings daily from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm, allowing people to connect virtually. The Chandigarh Area Service Committee works through various subcommittees to reach institutions and communities. The Hospitals and Institutions Subcommittee conducts meetings every week at five locations, including PGIMER Chandigarh, Government Medical College and Hospital Sector-6 Panchkula, SPYM Sector-18 Chandigarh, and SPYM Sector-66 Mohali. A new meeting will also begin at Civil Hospital Ropar on Saturdays, further expanding outreach to people undergoing treatment or rehabilitation. Meanwhile, the Public Relations Committee runs awareness campaigns across Chandigarh, Mohali, and Zirakpur. Volunteers distribute posters, flyers, and stickers and organize community events. Recent initiatives include awareness programs at Ramdarbar Phase-2, Tiranga Park Sector-17 under the “Drug-Free Chandigarh” campaign with the Social Welfare Department, and a presentation conducted in collaboration with NCC at GSSSG College Sector-42. The organization also collaborates with social welfare departments in Chandigarh and Haryana under the “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.” Awareness programs are conducted in schools, colleges, hospitals, Ambala Central Jail, Model Jail Burail, juvenile homes, and rural areas of Panchkula, Ambala, and Yamunanagar. In Mohali, awareness activities are also conducted at Opioid Agonist Treatment clinics in partnership with the health department. To assist people seeking help, Narcotics Anonymous Chandigarh has launched a helpline (+91 92177 06222) that receives around 30 to 35 calls every month, providing information about meetings and recovery support. The organization is also active on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, enabling individuals seeking help to connect easily with the recovery community. Members of the organization said their continuous meetings, institutional collaborations, and awareness programs aim to ensure that every person struggling with addiction receives the message that recovery is possible and help is available. For more information, people can visit www.naindia.in or www.nachd.in.

Saksham 2026
Chandigarh

Saksham 2026 concludes with a strong call for energy conservation

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The nationwide fuel conservation campaign held in Punjab and Chandigarh saw widespread participation. Officials urged citizens to adopt energy-saving habits throughout the year. Chandigarh: Saksham 2026, a nationwide campaign on fuel conservation and energy efficiency, concluded with widespread public participation in Punjab and Chandigarh—the two-week campaign aimed to promote responsible energy use and inspire people towards a greener future. Oil and gas public sector undertakings under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas organized this initiative. Students, industry representatives, transporters, farmers, RWAs, and common citizens actively participated in various awareness programs. At the closing ceremony held at Rani Lakshmi Bai Bhawan, Punjab State Level Coordinator and Executive Director and State Head of Indian Oil, Ashutosh Gupta, emphasized the need to continue the campaign. He stated that energy conservation should not be a two-week initiative, but rather become a daily habit. He also emphasized that responsible fuel use is crucial given India’s growing energy demand and dependence on crude oil imports. According to him, efficient use of oil and gas can strengthen the country’s energy security and reduce environmental impact. Meanwhile, Sushant Goyal, Chief Regional Manager (Retail), Chandigarh Retail RO, appealed to students, industry, and the media to spread the message widely. He urged people to incorporate fuel-saving measures into their daily routine. Jaideep Jain, DGM, Chandigarh Zonal Office, GAIL, and Ramlal, DGM (Retailing Initiatives), BPCL, also addressed the gathering. They emphasized collective responsibility to reduce fuel consumption. This year, Saksham 2026 included walkathons, cyclothons, fuel-efficient driving sessions for drivers and mechanics, and awareness programs at petrol pumps and CNG stations. In addition, school and college competitions, LPG safety and clean kitchen programs, and social media campaigns were also conducted. During the event, students and oil industry officials took a pledge to save fuel. The organizers also honored the students who participated enthusiastically. The ‘Samvad Theatre Group’ presented a play based on fuel efficiency and environmental protection. Stakeholders emphasized simple steps such as not leaving vehicles running unnecessarily, adopting carpooling, using public transportation, performing regular vehicle maintenance, and using energy-efficient appliances. The campaign concluded with a collective pledge to promote oil conservation and environmental protection throughout the year. The message was clear: “Save Oil and Gas, Go Green.”

Senior Citizen Welfare Association Chandigarh
Chandigarh

Senior Citizens Celebrate October Birthdays with Joy in Chandigarh

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The Senior Citizen Welfare Association celebrated the birthdays of members born in October with music, dance, and festive cheer. Chandigarh, October 18: The Senior Citizen Welfare Association, Chandigarh, celebrated the birthdays of its members born in October with great enthusiasm and joy at the Sector 37 Community Centre. The event brought together senior members for an afternoon filled with laughter, games, and lively celebrations. Around seven members who share October birthdays were honored during the program. The celebration began with a fun round of Tambola, a favorite activity among the association’s members. This was followed by a cake-cutting ceremony, where everyone joined in singing and cheering for their friends. Member Surinder Verma, whose birthday also falls in October, shared a heartfelt thought during the event. He said, “I celebrate my own birthday every year, but this time I wanted to celebrate the birthdays of all our October-born members together.” His gesture added a special sense of togetherness to the occasion. The association’s President Rajkumari Sharma and Secretary Virender Sharma appreciated Verma’s initiative and praised his efforts to spread happiness among fellow members. They highlighted how such community celebrations strengthen bonds and promote emotional well-being among senior citizens. The mood grew even more festive as members danced to old Bollywood songs and sang along, reliving cherished memories from their youth. The timing of the celebration, coinciding with the upcoming Diwali festival, added extra excitement and positivity. Members expressed that the dual celebration of birthdays and Diwali brought new energy and joy into their lives. The event concluded with a warm Diwali gesture, as all members lit sparklers (phuljhadis) together and exchanged greetings for the festival of lights. The Senior Citizen Welfare Association continues to organize such activities regularly, fostering companionship, joy, and a renewed zest for life among its members. Events like these reflect the vibrant spirit of Chandigarh’s elderly community, who continue to live life with enthusiasm and togetherness.

MSME RAMP Programme
Chandigarh

PHDCCI Hosts 5th Awareness Session on MSME RAMP Programme in Chandigarh

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The event focused on empowering MSMEs through awareness of government schemes, technology access, and financial opportunities. Chandigarh, October 17:The Chandigarh Chapter of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), in collaboration with the Industries Department, Chandigarh Administration, organized the 5th Awareness Session under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Programme Series at PHD House, Sector 31, Chandigarh. The event aimed to educate Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) about various government schemes, financial support systems, and technology-driven initiatives designed to enhance their productivity and competitiveness in today’s dynamic market. Adv. Lokesh Jain, Convener, Regional MSME Committee, PHDCCI, emphasized the need for continuous awareness programs to ensure MSMEs fully leverage available government benefits. He described the RAMP initiative as a landmark project by the Government of India, empowering MSMEs — “the true backbone of India’s economy.” Welcoming guests and participants, Ms. Bharti Sood, Senior Regional Director, PHDCCI, highlighted the Chamber’s consistent efforts to promote MSME growth through capacity building, training, and policy advocacy. She explained that the RAMP Programme, supported by the World Bank and the Ministry of MSME, aims to strengthen the MSME ecosystem by facilitating improved access to technology, finance, and market opportunities. Prominent speakers included Mr. Mohit, Additional Director, MSME-DFO Ludhiana; Mr. Nibhay Gargya, Director, NCG Corporate Engineers; Mr. Pramod Kumar Mishra, Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited; and Mr. Shiv Shankar Kumar, Co-Convener, Regional Banking and Financial Services Committee, PHDCCI. They shared valuable insights on topics such as government policy updates, renewable energy adoption, technological transformation, and financial tools that can help MSMEs sustain and scale their operations. The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, where participants engaged with experts to clarify doubts and share experiences. In her Vote of Thanks, Ms. Bharti Sood reaffirmed PHDCCI’s commitment to strengthening the regional MSME sector through sustained collaboration, awareness programs, and skill development initiatives. She emphasized that the Chamber will continue to serve as a bridge between MSMEs and policymakers to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth.

Udyamutsav-42 Chandigarh
Chandigarh

Udyamutsav-42 Sparks Entrepreneurial Spirit at PGGCG-42 Chandigarh

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The 4th edition of the college’s startup and innovation fair showcased young women’s creativity, innovation, and business potential. Chandigarh, October 17:The Postgraduate Government College for Girls (PGGCG-42) came alive with entrepreneurial enthusiasm as it hosted the 4th edition of Bazaar Udyamutsav-42, a one-day startup and innovation fair organized by the college’s Entrepreneurship Cell (E-Cell) on October 16, 2025. The event served as a vibrant platform for young entrepreneurs to showcase their creativity and business acumen. More than 40 stalls were set up by student entrepreneurs, local women self-help groups, and innovators from the college community. The products ranged from handmade crafts and eco-friendly goods to food items, accessories, and creative lifestyle products. Drawing a footfall of over 3,000 visitors, including students, faculty members, and local stakeholders, the college grounds transformed into a dynamic marketplace of ideas and enterprise. The fair was inaugurated by Principal Prof. Anita Kaushal, accompanied by Dr. Lakhvir (ASPD, RUSA), Vice Principal Dr. Anju Trikha, members of the E-Cell, and the Student Council. The dignitaries visited all the stalls and interacted with the young entrepreneurs. Commending the initiative, Prof. Kaushal lauded the students’ efforts, stating, “It is heartening to see young women taking charge of their ideas and turning them into action. This event reflects our college’s growing culture of innovation, excellence, and self-reliance.” To encourage innovation, certificates were awarded to the top three stalls based on creativity, presentation, and business potential. The competition added excitement and motivation, encouraging participants to refine their entrepreneurial skills. Speaking about the initiative, E-Cell Convener Mrs. Sunita Kumari said, “The aim of Udyamutsav is to provide a platform where young minds can transform their ideas into action. It’s about learning by doing, and today our students have shown what’s possible when opportunity meets innovation.” With its growing participation and positive response, Udyamutsav-42 has become a signature event for fostering entrepreneurship and innovation among young women. The day ended on an inspiring note, with students already planning for next year’s edition, reaffirming the college’s role as a nurturing ground for future entrepreneurs.

bibliotherapy for mental wellness
Chandigarh

Bibliotherapy Can Help Prevent Mental Stress, Says Dr Rajinder Singh

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On World Mental Health Day, experts highlight natural techniques, reading therapy, and community welfare for better mental well-being. Chandigarh: On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, renowned psychiatrist and social worker Dr (Col.) Rajinder Singh emphasized the role of natural techniques and bibliotherapy in promoting mental health and preventing stress-related disorders. Addressing the gathering, Dr Singh explained that mental health directly influences how individuals think, feel, and act in daily life. He said, “Poor mental health not only disturbs one’s thinking but also affects mood and behaviour.” He added that while psychological, biological, and social factors may increase vulnerability, simple relaxation practices can significantly enhance resilience. Dr Singh recommended mindful meditation, yoga, physical exercise, box breathing, and listening to music as effective ways to manage stress. He noted that stress can manifest physically through increased heart rate, palpitations, muscle tension, and digestive issues. During the event, Dr Singh’s new book, “Rewiring The Brain For Wellness,” was released. The book focuses on healthy habits and lifestyle changes that improve emotional and psychological well-being. He further discussed bibliotherapy—the use of books as a therapeutic tool—saying, “There is strong medical evidence that reading can help people manage emotional problems without expert intervention.” By reading biographies or stories of others who have faced similar challenges, he said, individuals can prevent their issues from escalating. Dr B.N.S. Walia, former Director of PGIMER Chandigarh, attended as the chief guest and praised The Kalgidhar Trust for its social and humanitarian initiatives. He highlighted the growing impact of climate change on mental health and commended the Trust’s work in flood relief and rehabilitation across Punjab. Dr Davinder Singh, President of The Kalgidhar Trust, and Dr Neelam Kaur, Adviser (Health & Education), expressed gratitude to the attendees and shared the organization’s global recognition for value-based education, healthcare, and de-addiction programs. Experts including Dr H.K. Bedi and Dr Ranjit Powar also shared insights on overcoming psychological challenges. The event concluded with the launch of “Chardikala” Wellness Studio and a helpline (9805098716) for mental health and flood relief assistance.

AICDA GST on used cars
Chandigarh

AICDA Demands GST Cut on Used Cars from 18% to 5%

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At its 25th Annual General Meeting, AICDA President J.S. Neyol urged the government to reduce GST and address long-ignored dealer concerns. Chandigarh: The 25th Annual General Meeting of the All India Car Dealers Association (AICDA) was held today in Chandigarh. Addressing the gathering, J.S. Neyol, National President of AICDA, called for an urgent reduction in GST on the purchase and sale of used cars from 18% to 5%. He said this move would provide major relief to thousands of car dealers and millions of workers dependent on the sector. Neyol highlighted that India’s car market is worth nearly INR 4 lakh crore annually and supports countless families across the country. However, despite its size and contribution, the sector continues to face complete neglect from policymakers. He emphasized that car dealers have been bearing the burden of high taxation, which has slowed down business growth and impacted employment. Moreover, Neyol pointed out that no reform has been introduced in GST rates for the used car segment since its inception. “Maintaining 18% GST on used car transactions is unfair,” he said, urging the government to bring it down to 5% to ensure fair trade practices and ease of doing business. In addition, he demanded that the rule allowing authorities to seal accounts in third-party payment cases should be abolished, as it disrupts legitimate business operations. He also appealed to car dealers across India to obtain their GST numbers at the earliest, ensuring smoother compliance and better policy engagement. Speaking about Chandigarh’s local dealers, Neyol expressed full support for their demand for a permanent trading location, promising to raise the issue at higher platforms. At the event, AICDA’s local President Gyaneshwar Jain (Shanky) welcomed participants from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Chandigarh. He echoed the call for GST registration and cooperation among members to strengthen the industry voice. Senior office bearers, including Harvinder Singh, Karanbir Singh (Tikka), Tajinder Singh, Harinder Singh, Gurjeet Singh, Sunny Singh, Ravi Malhotra, and Kuldeep Singh, were also present. Their collective participation reflected the unity of car dealers in demanding fair reforms and recognition for their vital role in the nation’s automobile ecosystem.

Chandigarh Police QRT bikes
Chandigarh

Honda India Foundation Donates 50 QRT Bikes to Chandigarh Police

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The initiative under ‘Sadak Sahayak: Surakshit Marg, Surakshit Jiwan’ will boost road safety, community support, and emergency response in Chandigarh. Chandigarh: Honda India Foundation (HIF), the CSR arm of Honda group companies in India, has handed over 50 customized Quick Response Team (QRT) vehicles to the Chandigarh Police under the ‘Sadak Sahayak: Surakshit Marg, Surakshit Jiwan’ project. The initiative supports road safety, community welfare, and faster emergency response across the region. The move aligns with Honda’s global vision of a collision-free society by 2050. Through this initiative, HIF continues to promote safer mobility and strengthen local safety systems. Each QRT vehicle is a specially equipped Honda CB350, modified to meet the needs of quick and efficient police response. Moreover, these vehicles are fitted with revolving flashers, blinkers, sirens, public announcement systems, and side storage boxes. Two Honda safety helmets are also included with each unit. The enhancements are designed to help police teams reach incident sites quickly, especially in high-traffic or sensitive areas. The handover ceremony took place in the presence of Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Sh. H. Rajesh Prasad, IAS, Chief Secretary, Dr. Sagar Preet Hooda, IPS, Director General of Police, and senior Honda officials including Sh. Rajeev Taneja and Sh. Prabhu Nagaraj. In addition, HIF aims to distribute 300 QRT vehicles nationwide by the end of this year across Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. Earlier, 50 vehicles were already handed over to the Gujarat Police to strengthen similar road safety initiatives. The collaboration between HIF and law enforcement showcases a public-private partnership committed to improving safety infrastructure. It also reflects Honda India Foundation’s dedication to community development and sustainable mobility. Therefore, this project is not just about providing vehicles; it is about saving lives, reducing injuries, and ensuring safer journeys for citizens. With the support of such collaborations, Chandigarh moves closer to becoming a model city for road safety and responsible driving.

Gayatri Parivar provincial conference
Mohali, Tri-City Update

Preparations Begin for Gayatri Parivar’s Provincial Conference in Mohali

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A special meeting was held at Shri Gayatri Shaktipith, Mohali, to plan the upcoming provincial conference of the Gayatri Parivar, scheduled for October 14. Chandigarh: A planning meeting for the upcoming Gayatri Parivar Provincial Conference was held at Shri Gayatri Shaktipith, Mohali. The event, organized by Shantikunj Haridwar, will bring together Gayatri Parivar members and devotees from across Punjab and Chandigarh. The grand conference is scheduled to take place on October 14, from 6:00 p.m. onward, at Libda Orchids Banquet Hall, near Dara Studio, Phase 6, Mohali. This sacred occasion will feature a special address and guidance by Dr. Chinmaya Pandya, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, Shantikunj, Haridwar. To ensure the program’s success, a dedicated coordination meeting was conducted at the Shaktipith, where local workers and organizers discussed detailed arrangements. Chief Coordinator Brijmohan Gupta and senior member Rajkumar Sharma briefed all participants about the event’s structure, logistics, and team responsibilities. Separate groups were formed to handle various tasks, ensuring smooth execution of the conference. During the meeting, organizers extended an open invitation to all devotees and spiritual seekers to participate in the event. The media fraternity was also specially invited to cover this spiritually enriching gathering. With collective efforts and enthusiasm from the Mohali and Chandigarh Gayatri Parivar members, preparations are in full swing. The conference aims to inspire deeper spiritual awakening and strengthen the values of harmony, service, and collective growth promoted by Shantikunj Haridwar.

EDUTHON 5.0 Chandigarh
Chandigarh

EDUTHON 5.0: AI Meets Humanity – Landmark Education Summit Held in Chandigarh

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Over 500 educators, leaders, and innovators gathered at JW Marriott Chandigarh to explore the balance between AI and human-centric learning. Chandigarh: The much-awaited EDUTHON 5.0: AI Meets Humanity was held at JW Marriott, Chandigarh, bringing together more than 500 educators, edupreneurs, edtech leaders, principals, teachers, and artists from across India. Organized by TRINITi and powered by Chitkara University, the summit reinforced its status as one of the nation’s most impactful platforms shaping the future of education. Opening the event, Ankur Malhotra, Founder Director of TRINITi, emphasized the theme of balance. “Education stands at a turning point. With AI redefining learning, we must ensure its integration strengthens the human core of education. EDUTHON 5.0 has been about exploring this very balance,” he said. The day-long summit featured panel discussions, fireside chats, masterclasses, performances, networking sessions, and a special book launch. The event was graced by Roshan Abbas, celebrated creative entrepreneur and storyteller, who served as Chief Guest. In a thought-provoking fireside chat with Malhotra, Abbas shared, “At the heart of education lies creativity and storytelling. These are what inspire curiosity, build empathy, and help technology truly serve humanity.” Acclaimed actor and author Sandhya Mridul added perspectives on mental health in education, stressing the need to support students in overcoming stress, self-esteem issues, and emotional challenges. Meanwhile, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro Chancellor of Chitkara University, and Dr. Niyati Chitkara, Vice President of School Education at Chitkara Educational Trust, shared their vision for a dynamic education manifesto, highlighting how AI can transform learning while preserving essential human values. Read More: PHDCCI 11th Ins/Out Exhibition Inaugurated by U.T. Home Secretary Chandigarh EDUTHON 5.0, in collaboration with NISA, AIP, and F&PA, saw representation from institutions nationwide, amplifying its influence. International voices also joined the dialogue, including Abhilasha Singh from Abu Dhabi and Alipt Sanam Hari from Ghana, alongside Indian leaders like Dr. Anirudh Gupta, CEO of DCM Schools. In a historic achievement, EDUTHON entered the India Book of Records (IBR) for hosting the “Largest Gathering of School Leaders for the Future of Education with AI.” Adding to the milestone, the summit also witnessed the launch of Gurdip Hari’s book, “The Sins of Education.” With each edition, EDUTHON has grown in scale, depth, and impact—solidifying its role as a driving force for educational innovation in India and beyond.

PHDCCI 11th Ins/Out Exhibition
Chandigarh

PHDCCI 11th Ins/Out Exhibition Inaugurated by U.T. Home Secretary Chandigarh

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Mandip Singh Brar highlights Chandigarh’s legacy of modern architecture and calls for sustainable design in urban planning. Chandigarh: The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) inaugurated its four-day 11th Ins/Out Exhibition today in Chandigarh. The event was opened by Mandip Singh Brar, IAS, Home Secretary of U.T. Chandigarh, who emphasized the significance of sustainable design in architecture as the foundation for a green and resilient future. Speaking at the inaugural session, Brar noted that Chandigarh, famously known as “The City Beautiful,” stands as one of the finest examples of 20th-century modern urban planning. With its carefully designed sectors, open green spaces, and monumental buildings such as the Capitol Complex, the city continues to inspire architects, students, and planners worldwide. He stressed that sustainable architecture must integrate renewable energy, eco-friendly materials, natural lighting, rainwater harvesting, and waste reduction techniques to ensure healthier and future-ready living environments. Brar also underlined that with rapid urbanization, architecture’s importance has grown, but environmental protection is often overlooked. He appreciated PHDCCI’s role in bringing together producers, consumers, and institutions under one roof to foster innovation and awareness in the building and construction sector. The exhibition, organized in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Architects (IIA), Fire and Security Association of India (FSAI), Ministry of MSME, Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited, CREST, PEDA, and HAREDA, provides a platform for knowledge exchange between industry leaders, architects, and students. Welcoming the chief guest, Madhu Sudan Vij, Chair of the Chandigarh Chapter of PHDCCI, said the event offers architecture students an opportunity to learn about emerging technologies and changing practices in construction. Senior Regional Director Ms. Bharti Sood emphasized that Ins/Out bridges academia with industry, while Co-Chair Suvrat Khanna expressed gratitude to participants and confirmed plans for expansion. The technical session, supported by Polycab and Tata Tiscon, highlighted innovations in materials and technologies aligned with sustainable growth. Experts, including Ar. Manmohan Khanna, Chairman of IIA Chandigarh Chapter, spoke about balancing heritage, sustainability, and modern development in India’s cities. The inauguration was attended by leading architects, planners, and dignitaries, including Ar. Habib Khan, Ar. Jit Kumar Gupta, Ar. Kapil Setia, Prof. Swati Bhel, and H. S. Bhogal, marking a promising start to the four-day exhibition.

Sawan's Second Monday
Chandigarh

Rare Holy Conjunction of Sawan’s Second Monday and Kamika Ekadashi Observed

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Devotees Worship Lord Shiva at Ancient Kheda Shiva Temple in Sector 28, Chandigarh; Priest Highlights Auspicious Blessings of Shiva and Vishnu Chandigarh | July 21:A rare and spiritually significant conjunction occurred on July 21 as the second Monday of the sacred month of Sawan coincided with Kamika Ekadashi. Both days are individually considered highly auspicious—Mondays in Shravan are dedicated to Lord Shiva, while Ekadashi is devoted to Lord Vishnu. This rare overlap is believed to bring devotees the blessings of both deities, as stated by Pandit Acharya Ishwar Chandra Shastri of the ancient Shiva Kheda Temple in Sector 28, Chandigarh. Since early morning, devotees gathered in large numbers at the temple to offer prayers to their revered deity, Lord Shiva. They performed rituals by offering flowers, fruits, and water to the Shiva Linga, praying for their desires to be fulfilled. Special devotional offerings like sabudana kheer and malpua were also distributed as prasad among the attendees. Pandit Ishwar Chandra Shastri emphasized the spiritual significance of this rare alignment, noting that the combined worship of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu is exceptionally auspicious and is described in religious scriptures as highly meritorious. “Such a conjunction happens once in several years,” he said, “making this day ideal for fasting, prayer, and attaining divine blessings.” Temple head priest Pandit Subhash Sharma reiterated that every Monday of the Shravan month is special for Shiva devotees, while Ekadashi is sacred to followers of Vishnu. “When both these days fall together, it offers a rare chance for devotees to seek the combined blessings of both deities,” he said. “Joint worship of Shiva and Vishnu can destroy all sins and bring peace, prosperity, and happiness into one’s life.” Read More: Dr. Sazina Khan Honored with Global Impact Icon Award at IIIA 2025 in Dubai