Foundation Stone of LIC Investment Building Laid

Real estate emerging as a stronger asset class; LIC to boost policyholders’ returns through rental income, says MD Ratnakar Patnaik

Mohali, March 15, 2026: The foundation stone of the Investment Building of Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) at Sector 49, Mohali, under the Chandigarh Divisional Office, was formally laid by Ratnakar Patnaik, Managing Director, LIC of India.

The ceremony was attended by several senior officials of the corporation, including J.P.S. Bajaj, Zonal Manager (North Zone); P.K.J. Dungdung, Executive Director (Engineering); Vikram Singh Yadav, Chief Engineer (North Zone); Yangjor, Regional Manager (Marketing), North Zone; and Sonam Chhewang, Senior Divisional Manager, Chandigarh.

Speaking to reporters on the occasion, Patnaik said that real estate has emerged as a strong and reliable investment option in the current economic environment, which is why LIC has been developing ‘investment buildings’ across various cities in the country.

He explained that LIC acquires land parcels and, after obtaining the required approvals, constructs modern commercial buildings that are leased out as office spaces. The rental income generated from such properties contributes to strengthening LIC’s investment portfolio and helps in providing better returns to policyholders.

“Real estate investments currently offer better prospects compared to several other asset classes. That is why LIC is focusing on creating investment buildings in different locations. We want to provide enhanced returns to our policy holders,” Patnaik said.

The upcoming Investment Building in Mohali, near Chandigarh, is being developed by LIC’s engineering department and is envisioned as a modern and impressive commercial complex. The project is expected to be completed in approximately three years.

It is envisaged that the project will bring substantial economic activity and development to Punjab.

Meanwhile, Patnaik  further highlighted that LIC owns properties across India in major metropolitan cities as well as Tier-2 cities, adding that nearly 60 percent of the corporation’s total rental income currently comes from properties located in Delhi.

The allotment of space will be carried out through a transparent and competitive bidding process to ensure quality tenants and optimal rental returns.

“Our objective is to ensure a transparent system that brings reliable tenants and generates steady rental income, which ultimately benefits our policyholders,” he added.

शीतला सप्तमी के पर्व पर पुरुषोत्तम दास रूंगटा चैरिटेबल ट्रस्ट ने आयोजित किया 206वां भंडारा

अन्न भंडारा करने का बेहतरीन दिन है शीतला सप्तमी: अमिताभ
रूंगटा

पंचकुला, 10 मार्च 2026:

शीतला सप्तमी के पर्व पर समाजसेवी एवं पुरुषोत्तम दास रूंगटा चैरिटेबल ट्रस्ट के फाउंडर अमिताभ रूंगटा के नेतृत्व में औद्योगिक क्षेत्र फेज-1 में ट्रस्ट द्वारा 206वां अन्न भंडारा आयोजित किया गया। इस अवसर पर भंडारे को परोसने और आयोजन में सहयोग देने वाले वालंटियर्स विशेष रूप से उपस्थित रहे।

अमिताभ रूंगटा ने शीतला सप्तमी के महत्व पर प्रकाश डालते हुए बताया कि यह चैत्र मास के कृष्ण पक्ष की सप्तमी तिथि है। हिंदू पंचांग के अनुसार यह दिन धार्मिक दृष्टि से विशेष महत्व रखता है और आज पूरे श्रद्धा भाव के साथ शीतला सप्तमी का पर्व मनाया जा रहा है।

उन्होंने कहा कि ऐसे पावन अवसर पर किसी भी नए धार्मिक या सामाजिक आयोजन की शुरुआत करना श्रेष्ठ माना जाता है। स्थानीय एनजीओ तथा समाजसेवी इस दिन से प्रेरणा लेकर सप्ताह या महीने में एक बार राहगीरों के लिए अन्न भंडारा आयोजित कर सकते हैं या अपने साथियों के साथ मिलकर इसकी योजना बना सकते हैं। उन्होंने कहा कि इस प्रकार के धार्मिक एवं सामाजिक कार्यों का फल अवश्य प्राप्त होता है।

A Fin-Tastic Spectacle: Young Montessorians bring Finding Nemo to Life on Stage

Chandigarh, In a dazzling display of talent and dedication, the Montessori Lower Elementary (Grade III) students of Vivek High School, Mohali transformed the stage of Vivek High School, Chandigarh, into a vast and vibrant ocean; presenting a spellbinding theatrical adaptation of Disney and Pixar’s beloved classic, ‘Finding Nemo’.

 

From the moment the lights dimmed, the audience was transported on an unforgettable journey across the sea, with the young cast delivering performances that were truly extraordinary. Their enthusiasm was infectious as they embodied their favourite characters with remarkable confidence and charm. Navigating the challenges of dialogue, comic timing and emotional depth, every scene was a testament to the young Montessorians' relentless hard work and passion.

 

The Head of Junior Wing, Ms Meenakshi Madaan, congratulated the performers and shared that a production of this scale is a monumental undertaking. She extended her deepest gratitude to the school management and added that their steadfast support and belief in the arts provided the students with an incredible platform for creative expression, reflecting their commitment to a well-rounded education.

 

The Principal, Mrs. Jaswinder Gandhok thanked the parents for their endless encouragement and for providing the children with the essential moral support, which served as the foundation upon which the young performers could build their confidence. She congratulated the entire cast and crew of Finding Nemo and added that they had created a world of wonder and reminded everyone of the importance of family and friendship.

 

This spectacular performance was the result of the tireless vision and guidance of the young director, Mr. Aman Singh, whose unwavering commitment to excellence inspired the students to reach new heights. He brought to life a cohesive and captivating story. The choir, which was trained by Mr. Seyiekhrienyu Usou and Mr. Keshav Singh Sunwar, rendered rich and powerful harmonies that captured the wonder and heart of the ocean adventure. The impressively choreographed dance sequences, designed by Ms. Mohina Sharma, were executed by the children with energy and precision. The seamless integration of acting, voice and movement created a truly immersive theatrical experience.

 

 

The production was a resounding success, as the actors' undeniable magic held the audience in complete awe from the beginning to the end.

Myntra Glamfest Tour Blends Fashion and Punjabi Pop Energy at CGC Mohali as Jasmine Sandlas Headlines the Fest, drawing a footfall of 14000+

 

Chandigarh, 2026: Myntra, in collaboration with Vistoso ’26, CGC Mohali’s annual cultural festival, brought the Myntra Glamfest Tour to Chandigarh with a vibrant campus celebration. Hosted at one of the region’s prominent educational institutions, the event brought together 14000+ students and music enthusiasts, transforming the campus into a lively destination for fashion discovery, live entertainment, and youth culture.

The Chandigarh edition witnessed enthusiastic participation throughout the day, with students engaging in fashion-led activities, campus showcases, and interactive experiences across the venue. The Myntra Experience Zone emerged as a major attraction, featuring playful interactions, styling moments, and visually immersive installations that encouraged creativity and self-expression. Student-led performances highlighted campus talent, while reward-based activities enabled seamless engagement, connecting on-ground experiences with Myntra’s digital ecosystem.

The evening reached its peak with a high-energy performance by Punjabi pop sensation Jasmine Sandlas, whose headlining act drew an electrifying response from the audience. Her chart-topping hits and dynamic stage presence transformed the venue into a collective sing-along, delivering an unforgettable evening for attendees.

Commenting on the Myntra Glamfest Tour, Abhishek Gour, Senior Director of Brand, Myntra, said, “Our approach to youth engagement continues to evolve beyond conventional brand interactions to formats that are experience-led and community-driven. With the Myntra Glamfest Tour at CGC Mohali, we connected with young audiences in a way that felt authentic to the campus environment and reflective of how Gen Z interacts with fashion, making trend discovery more intuitive, social, and deeply resonant.”

The Myntra Glamfest Tour will continue its journey across college campuses nationwide, strengthening Myntra’s presence among Gen Z through immersive, community-first experiences rooted in culture, creativity, and participation.

पुरुषोत्तम दास रूंगटा चैरिटेबल ट्रस्ट ने आयोजित किया भंडारा

 

जीवन में सुख-समृद्धि के लिए अन्न भंडारा सार्थक कार्य: अमिताभ रुंगटा

पंचकुला, 21 फरवरी 2026: समाजसेवी एवं पुरुषोत्तम दास रूंगटा चैरिटेबल ट्रस्ट के संस्थापक अमिताभ रुंगटा ने कहा कि जीवन में सुख-समृद्धि और लाभ बनाए रखने के लिए अन्नदान अथवा भंडारा आयोजित करना अत्यंत सार्थक कार्य है। उन्होंने कहा कि यदि हमें अन्न भंडारे के महत्व की जानकारी है तो हमें दूसरों को भी इसके लाभ और महत्व के बारे में जागरूक करना चाहिए। अन्न भंडारे का मुख्य उद्देश्य यही होना चाहिए कि धरती पर कोई भी व्यक्ति भूखा न रहे।

अमिताभ रुंगटा ने ये विचार पुरुषोत्तम दास रूंगटा चैरिटेबल ट्रस्ट द्वारा औद्योगिक क्षेत्र फेज-1 में आयोजित 204वें भंडारे के अवसर पर व्यक्त किए।

इस अवसर पर भंडारा वितरण में सहयोग देने वाले स्वयंसेवक  विशेष रूप से उपस्थित रहे और आयोजन को सफल बनाने में सक्रिय भूमिका निभाई।

Sanjay Tandon meets Chandigarh Chief Secretary, pushes for freehold rights, EWS ownership, teachers’ parity and sports infrastructure reforms

Chandigarh, February 20, 2026: Senior BJP leader & BJP National Council Member Sanjay Tandon on Friday held a long meeting with H Rajesh Prasad, Chief Secretary of Chandigarh, during which he raised several key civic, property and education-related issues and urged the administration to take early action.

One of the main issues discussed during the meeting was the transfer of ownership rights to Economically Weaker Section (EWS) beneficiaries. Tandon shared his suggestions on granting ownership rights to EWS allottees and emphasised the need to convert their properties from leasehold to freehold. He said such a move would provide long-term security and empowerment to beneficiaries and expressed hope that the administration would take a positive decision soon.

Tandon also strongly raised the broader issue of converting leasehold commercial, industrial and residential properties across the city into freehold. He stressed the need for the administration to prepare a clear roadmap to gradually free Chandigarh from what he described as the “leasehold burden.”

He also shared details of past efforts made in this regard at the level of Home Minister and elsewhere and said he was hopeful that the city administration would examine the matter sympathetically.

Another important issue discussed was related to teachers of government-aided schools and colleges. Tandon highlighted concerns regarding their pension benefits, retirement age and pay parity. He emphasised the need to bring their service conditions at par with teachers working in full-fledged government institutions. The Chief Secretary assured him that the matter would be examined in detail.

The two also discussed the utilisation of school grounds for promoting sports activities. Tandon suggested that school playgrounds should be used more effectively to encourage sports and youth development in the city. The Chief Secretary assured him that the administration would look into the proposal meaningfully.

Speaking after the meeting, Tandon said he was hopeful that the Chandigarh Administration would take constructive steps on these important issues, which directly affect residents, property holders, teachers and youth in the city. He expressed confidence that positive decisions would be taken in the larger public interest.

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Unveils Opus1Run – New Chandigarh Marathon T-Shirt

  

Marathon to Be Held on 22nd February with Theme ‘Run for Punjab’

Chandigarh, February 20, 2026: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann today unveiled the official T-shirt of Opus1Run – New Chandigarh Marathon (Run for Punjab). The marathon is being organized with the objective of promoting health, fitness, and a strong sporting culture across Punjab and the Chandigarh Capital Region. Opus1Run – New Chandigarh Marathon will be held on Sunday, 22nd February 2026 and will be flagged off from Doon International School, New Chandigarh. The initiative has been undertaken by GB Realty and is being organized by GB Legends.

Gurinder Singh Bhatti, Founder & Chairman of GB Realty, stated that GB Realty has consistently promoted sports as part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives and that Opus1Run – New Chandigarh Marathon is aligned with the organization’s commitment toward encouraging sporting excellence. He said, “Opus1Run – New Chandigarh Marathon is not just a race, but a meaningful step towards building a fit and aware society. We look forward to maximum participation so that individuals can demonstrate their commitment towards health and fitness.”

The race will be conducted in a phased manner with the 42 KM Full Marathon starting at 4:30 AM, followed by the 21 KM Half Marathon at 5:45 AM, the 10 KM Run at 6:20 AM, the 5 KM Run at 6:30 AM, and the 3 KM Run along with the Wheelchair category thereafter. Attractive cash prizes will be awarded to winners across competitive categories.

Gurnav Bhatti, Owner of GB Legends, said, “Our vision is to establish Opus1Run – New Chandigarh Marathon as a premier annual sporting event in the region. We aim to inspire youth to stay health-conscious, disciplined, and committed to an active lifestyle.”

Approximately 750 runners are set to participate in the marathon across multiple race categories, reflecting strong community engagement and enthusiasm for fitness and endurance sports.

The marathon marks the beginning of a long-term sporting initiative by GB Legends to position the Chandigarh Capital Region as a vibrant sporting hub that nurtures talent and produces national and international-level athletes.

The event is supported by key partners and sponsors including Park Hospital, Verka, Punjab Agro, Campa Sure, Mahindra Electric Chandigarh, Chandigarh Distance Runners, ASICS Running Club, Skechers Running Club, and Doon International School.

“Through this event, GB Legends is not only promoting the spirit of competition but also delivering a strong message of unity, community participation, and collective progress,” added Gurnav Bhatti.