ISB and MeitY Convene National Leaders at Governance Summit 2026 to Chart India’s Course for Inclusive AI

Mohali, May 23, 2026]: The Bharti Institute of Public Policy (BIPP) at the Indian School of Business (ISB), in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), today hosted the Governance Summit 2026: Inclusive AI for Viksit Bharat at the Mohali campus of ISB.

The fourth edition of the summit commenced with an inaugural keynote address, delivered by Shri S. Krishnan, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India, who set out the government’s commitment to building an AI ecosystem that serves every citizen, including those at the margins of the digital economy. In his keynote, he highlighted that artificial intelligence presents India with a transformative opportunity to enhance productivity, improve governance, and expand access across sectors such as healthcare, education, manufacturing, and financial inclusion. He also raised that while concerns around the impact of AI on cognitive jobs are understandable, India is uniquely positioned to harness this technology for inclusive growth. Shri Krishnan also highlighted that as India builds its AI ecosystem, it is important that it develops models reflecting cultural and linguistic diversity, while ensuring strategic autonomy and domestic control over critical technological safeguards.

Professor Ashwini Chhatre, Executive Director, Bharti Institute of Public Policy, ISB, emphasised the need to translate AI ambitions into actionable governance frameworks. He highlighted that AI must be viewed as a long-term national mission shaping the future of the next generation and identified inequality, leapfrogging opportunities, and the future of jobs as key dimensions of the emerging AI landscape. Prof. Chhatre also stressed that access to AI opportunities must remain equitable through appropriate safeguards, social security mechanisms, and affirmative action.

 Dr Aarushi Jain, Director, Bharti Institute of Public Policy, ISB, underscored that genuine inclusion requires deliberate policy design. She highlighted that artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept, but a transformative force reshaping economies, governance, education, and healthcare, while influencing the lives of citizens across the globe. Dr Jain further emphasised that the real challenge lies in ensuring that public policy enables AI to become a tool for inclusion rather than exclusion.

 The day-long programme featured four thematic panel discussions covering AI’s role in digital commerce, online safety for women and children, healthcare access and affordability, and job creation and digital entrepreneurship. A parallel roundtable examined the operationalisation of AI for last-mile public service delivery, from state governments down to gram panchayats.

 More tha 250 delegates participated in the Governance Summit 2026, reflecting the growing significance of conversations at the intersection of artificial intelligence, governance, and public policy. The summit brought together a distinguished line-up of policymakers, industry leaders, academics, civil society representatives, and international organisations, including participants from MeitY, Reliance Retail, Mastercard, IIT Madras, UNICEF India, Punjab Police, Karmayogi Bharat, and key stakeholders from the IndiaAI ecosystem. The breadth of participation underscored the summit’s role as a collaborative platform for advancing dialogue on inclusive and responsible AI-driven governance.

 

The summit was moderated by students of the Advanced Management Programme in Public Policy (AMPPP) at ISB, reflecting the institute’s commitment to training the next generation of policy leaders.

NPS Lifts Inter-School Alumni Basketball Trophy

Alumni Associations of Yadavindra Public School & Vivek High School Emerge 1st & 2nd Runner-Ups Respectively 

Chandigarh, April 21, 2026: Ex-Vivekite Association (EVA) successfully organised the second inter-school alumni basketball tournament that saw enthusiastic participation from 7 school alumni teams. The courts at Vivek High School, Sec 38, Chandigarh, were buzzing with energy as players showcased impressive dunks and sharp three-pointers.  Notably, the teams were made up of  a mix of both men & women players. 

The alumni association of New Public School (NPS) emerged as the champions and clinched the title. YPS Mohali secured the first runner-up position, while the host alumni association, EVA (Vivek High School), finished as the second runner-up.  

NPS defeated Yadavindra School Association (OYA) 58-42. For NPS, Divarsh Singh under captaincy of Gurinder Singh was the highest scorer with 32 points. For OYA, Aadesh Singh under the captaincy of Rakshit was the highest scorer with 24 points. 

In the match for third place Ex-Vivekite Association (EVA) locked horns with Guru Nanak Public School. EVA defeated GNPS 42-36. For EVA Gursher under the captaincy of Ronnie Singh was the highest scorer with 18 points. Shahbaaz of GNPS scored the highest -18 points for his team. 

EVA's President, Dr Harkirat Sethi; Vice President, Tarun Lehal and Sports Secretaries, Ronnie Singh and Abhishek Garg, congratulated all the teams for their sportsmanship and spirited performances. 

Mukul Sharma, Vice Principal, Vivek High School, Chandigarh, gave away the trophies and prizes to the winners. 

It is pertinent to mention that  the alumni associations that took part in the tournament were hosts- EVA (Ex-Vivekite Association), New Public School (NPS), YPS Mohali (OYA), Guru Nanak Public School (GNPS), St. Kabir (KROS), Sanawar (OSS) & Doon School.

Akshaya Tritiya: Lab Grown Diamonds to Offer a New & Auspicious Investment Option

Lab Grown Diamonds Are the Future of Fine Jewellery,” Deepak Gupta, Lab-Grown Diamond Expert

Chandigarh, April 15, 2026: As Akshaya Tritiya approaches on April 19, a day considered highly auspicious for making investments that are believed to grow and endure, Kultivated Karats is presenting a modern alternative to traditional gold buying — lab-grown diamonds at its store in NAC, Manimajra.

Highlighting this shift, founder Kultivated Karats  and a lab grown diamonds expert, Deepak Gupta says, “Akshaya Tritiya has always been about beginning something enduring — and that is precisely what a lab-grown diamond represents. Lab-grown diamonds are the future of fine jewellery. They offer the same certified brilliance as mined diamonds, while aligning with the values of today’s conscious, informed buyer. A woman today is not just purchasing jewellery; she is making a statement about who she is — and lab-grown diamonds give her that power with no compromise on quality, beauty, or ethics.”

To celebrate the occasion, Kultivated Karats has announced an exclusive Akshaya Tritiya offer of up to ₹11,000 off per carat on certified lab-grown diamonds, available for a limited period. Each piece is bespoke and made-to-order, combining personalized design with IGI/GIA-certified diamonds — making it a rare opportunity to invest in fine jewellery at exceptional value.

Traditionally associated with gold purchases, Akshaya Tritiya symbolizes prosperity, abundance, and the promise of growth. However, evolving consumer preferences are redefining what constitutes a meaningful investment. Increasingly, buyers — especially millennials and Gen Z — are seeking options that combine financial prudence with ethical responsibility.

Lab-grown diamonds answer this demand. Created using advanced processes such as Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) and High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT), they are real diamonds — identical to mined ones in composition, appearance, and grading standards. Certified by leading institutions and evaluated on the same 4Cs — cut, colour, clarity, and carat — they offer a more sustainable and accessible choice without compromising on luxury.

With this offering, Kultivated Karats brings together the timeless significance of Akshaya Tritiya and the forward-looking appeal of lab-grown diamonds — encouraging buyers to invest in something that is not only beautiful and enduring, but also aligned with the values of a new generation.

Akshaya Tritiya: Purushottam Das Rungta Charitable Trust Organises Ann Bhandara

Panchkula,April 19,2026: On the auspicious occasion of Aks
haya Tritiya, the Purushottam Das Rungta Charitable Trust organised its 212th 'Ann Bhandara',  or community kitchen, at Phase I, Panchkula Industrial Area, continuing its longstanding commitment to serving the community.

Highlighting the significance of the day, social worker and Founder of the Trust, Amitabh Rungta, said, “On Akshaya Tritiya, offering food to those in need is one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate the festival. Such acts of kindness are believed to bring enduring merit and contribute to the well-being of society.”

Akshaya Tritiya is a sacred festival symbolizing prosperity, generosity, and eternal abundance. Acts of charity, especially donating food, are considered highly meritorious and are believed to bring lasting blessings.

The Bhandara saw active participation from volunteers and community members, who came together to serve freshly prepared meals to a large number of people, reflecting the spirit of compassion and selfless service.

Women-led workforce drives a powerful model of community empowerment

Chandigarh, March 24, 2026: Chhota Banaras, a unique culinary concept inspired by the timeless ethos of Banaras, has officially launched its new outlet in Sector 8, Chandigarh. The launch was marked by a curated tasting session, offering an immersive experience of the brand’s philosophy, cuisine and people.

Located at SCO 28–29, Madhya Marg, the outlet exemplifies a thoughtful attempt to recreate not just the food but the feeling of Banaras, a city known for its simplicity, depth and unhurried way of life, said Monica Rani, who heads women section at Chhota Banaras, Sector 8, during a media interaction.

According to her, Chhota Banaras is built around the idea that Banaras is not merely a place, but a lived experience. It represents a slower, more mindful way of living where food is prepared with patience and authenticity, and traditions are practiced daily rather than preserved as nostalgia, she said.

Talking about women empowerment at the core of Chhota Banaras Sector 8 outlet, Rani said: “There is no doubt that a defining feature of Sector 8 outlet is its strong focus on women empowerment. The outlet employs a workforce of around 20 women, nearly 80 per cent of whom have stepped into a professional environment for the first time.”

These women, namely, Muni, Sushila, Deepa and Sumna, come from nearby areas such as Khuda Ali Sher, Khuda Lahora, and Nayagaon and are actively involved in all aspects of food preparation - from grinding spices and preparing ingredients to creating signature dishes and in-house masalas like pav bhaji blends.

In reply to a question, Monica said: “More than employment, the initiative fosters dignity, confidence and financial independence. The brand strongly believes that food carries the energy and sincerity of those who prepare it, making this women-led effort integral to the Chhota Banaras experience.”

The menu at Chhota Banaras is inspired by the vibrant street food culture of Banaras, offering a range of traditional and comfort dishes including Channa Bhatura, Aloo Puri, Kachori with Aloo Sabzi and select south Indian offerings.

According to Chef Umesh Yadav, the beverage selection complements the food with nostalgic Indian favourites such as Gulkand shake, sweet lassi, Badam milk and Nimbu Pani along with a fermented option, that is, Mint Kombucha.

Chef Yadav said that traditional methods are followed rigorously including the daily preparation of khoya in iron pot and slow cooking in copper and brass utensils. “We use single-source cow milk and incorporates bio-dynamism technology water sourced from Auroville,” he said.

With focus on purity, Yadav said, Chhota Banaras distinguishes itself through its commitment to authentic ingredients and time-honoured cooking practices. All food is prepared using desi khaand instead of refined sugar and cooked in cold-pressed oils, he added.

The Chief Chef further revealed that the bakery and sweets section features at Chhota Banaras at its Sector 8 outlet are freshly prepared items and traditional Indian mithais, crafted with the same emphasis on purity and quality.

Talking about accessible dining experience, Chef Yadav said that Chhota Banaras offers a wholesome dining experience for two including beverages and dessert, priced between Rs 600 and Rs 700 inclusive of taxes, making it both authentic and accessible.

Sharing details on expansion plans in the pipeline, Monica Rani and Chef Yadav said: “Chhota Banaras is set to expand its presence across the tricity region. The next phase includes upcoming o…

Punjab State Information Commissioner Harpreet Sandhu Calls on Delhi Lt. Governor, Presents Book on Chandigarh

 

Chandigarh, March :  Harpreet Sandhu, State Information Commissioner, Punjab, based in Chandigarh, called on the newly appointed Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, at Lok Bhawan, New Delhi.

During the meeting, Harpreet Sandhu extended his greetings and best wishes to the Lt. Governor on his new appointment. He also presented his pictorial book titled “Sukhna Lake at Dawn,” dedicated to the 75th year of the making of Chandigarh.

The interaction was marked by a cordial exchange, reflecting mutual appreciation and goodwill. Sandhu, who serves at the Punjab State Information Commission located in Sector 16, Chandigarh, highlighted the cultural and historical significance of Chandigarh through his publication.

पुरुषोत्तम दास रूंगटा चैरिटेबल ट्रस्ट ने लगाया भंडारा

पंचकूला, 23 मार्च 2026: सेवा और परोपकार की भावना को आगे बढ़ाते हुए  पुरुषोत्तम दास रूंगटा चैरिटेबल ट्रस्ट  द्वारा पंचकूला के फेज-1 औद्योगिक क्षेत्र में जनसाधारण के लिए 208वें अन्न भंडारे का आयोजन किया गया। इस अवसर पर बड़ी संख्या में लोगों ने प्रसाद ग्रहण किया और सेवा कार्य में भाग लेकर पुण्य लाभ अर्जित किया।

इस मौके पर  ट्रस्ट के संस्थापक और समाज सेवी अमिताभ रुंगटा ने कहा कि हमारा उद्देश्य केवल अन्न भंडारा आयोजित करना भर नहीं है, बल्कि समाज की सच्ची सेवा करना है। हम चाहते हैं कि ऐसे आयोजनों के माध्यम से लोगों में एकजुटता की भावना विकसित हो और वे भी आगे बढ़कर जरूरतमंदों की सहायता के लिए प्रेरित हों।

उन्होंने आगे कहा कि जब लोग मिलकर किसी नेक कार्य में भाग लेते हैं, तो न केवल जरूरतमंदों को सहारा मिलता है, बल्कि समाज में सकारात्मक ऊर्जा और आपसी भाईचारे का भी विकास होता है।

उन्होंने अपना विचार रखते हुए कहा कि, ऐसे प्रयास वास्तव में समाज की नींव को मजबूत करते हैं। आज के समय में, जब व्यक्ति अक्सर अपने व्यक्तिगत जीवन तक सीमित हो जाता है, तब इस प्रकार के सामूहिक सेवा कार्य हमें हमारी सामाजिक जिम्मेदारियों का एहसास कराते हैं। यह केवल दान नहीं, बल्कि एक साझा जिम्मेदारी है, जो हमें एक बेहतर और संवेदनशील समाज की ओर ले जाती है।

भंडारे के आयोजन में ट्रस्ट  के सदस्यों और सहयोगियों ने सक्रिय भागीदारी निभाई।