Saturday, February 28, 2026

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.

Sunday, February 22, 2026

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।

Friday, February 20, 2026

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.

Wednesday, February 18, 2026

Chandigarh, February 18, 2026: In a special event celebrating literature and creativity, author Sunali Singh Ranaa’s debut book “Whispers in the Cursed Desert: Inked in Blood” (The Enchanted Dunes Saga- Volume I) was officially launched at Bahrisons in Sec 8, Chandigarh. The occasion witnessed the presence of several distinguished personalities from the fields of literature, education, industry, and society. In future two more volumes of the book will be published. Notably; Sunali Singh Ranaa, is an energy sector consultant associated with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).


Speaking about the book, Sunali explained that it is a mysterious and magical tale centered on a young woman named Layla, who sets out to uncover the truth behind her father’s mysterious death. During her journey, she encounters hidden worlds, lost cities, and dangerous magic, gradually realizing that she is about to unearth a much larger mystery and that she is the target of a sinister conspiracy. She added that while the story is filled with magic, mystery, and courage, at its core it is the journey of a young woman discovering and embracing her own power.

Sunali shared that her love for storytelling began in childhood through stories narrated by her mother. During her school years, she received many opportunities for storytelling and participated successfully in competitions. Even during her professional career, she continued writing her thoughts in a diary, which later guided her toward creative writing.

She described the desert in her story as more than just a landscape of sand, calling it a symbol of isolation, endurance, and hidden emotions. According to her, the desert represents memories and experiences that may fade with time but never truly disappear.

Reflecting on her transition from a technical field to storytelling, Sunali said that numbers teach structure while policy helps in understanding systems and people. Her professional interactions with individuals from diverse sectors helped her realize that every industry and institution carries a human story — whether of struggle, ambition, or difficult choices. For her, storytelling is a medium to understand the world better and to find inspiration in life.

The event was graced by Saurabh Kumar(IFS), Director, Department of Environment Chandigarh Administration who also unveiled the book. Others present included former Advocate General of Haryana and former Chairman of Punjab State Cooperative Bank, Rana Virender Singh. Other notable guests included former member of the Punjab NRI Commission, Gurjeet Lehal; senior educationist Jaswant Lehal; and Maison De Fabric owners Ratnavli Sekhon and Rattanjot Dhillon.

During the book unveiling event, Sunali shared the inspiration behind the book, her views on women empowerment, and her experiences as a writer with the audience. The guests congratulated the author on her debut book and described it as a commendable contribution to the literary world. The programme proved to be inspiring and memorable for literature enthusiasts.

Monday, February 16, 2026

Gujarat-based construction solutions brand Mapisa369 unveils fast-setting tile adhesive ‘Mapisa Marbilano’, plans entry in Chandigarh

 

-Next-generation adhesive unveiled at Archex Exhibition 

 

“‘Make Local, Export Global’ is our core mantra, 'Made in India Ka Danka Bajana Hai!'”, says Ashok H Choudhary, MD & CEO, Mapisa369 

 

Chandigarh, February 16, 2026: In a significant development for India’s construction materials sector, Gujarat-based global construction solutions brand Mapisa369 has launched its next-generation fast-setting tile and stone adhesive ‘Mapisa Marbilano’, marking its formal entry into the fast-growing North India market. The product was unveiled at the Archex Exhibition Chandigarh, positioning the company to tap into the expanding construction ecosystem of the Chandigarh capital region.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Ashok H Choudhary, Managing Director and CEO, Mapisa369, by Shivazza Group said, “'Mapisa Marbilano' represents a breakthrough in tile adhesive technology. This innovation is designed to save valuable construction time without compromising on quality, durability, or safety. Our goal is to bring globally competitive and technologically advanced solutions to the Indian construction industry.”

 

Kamal Mehta, Executive Director, and Pradeep Kumar, North Marketing Head, along with other senior team members, were also present during the launch. 

 

Powered by advanced gel and fiber-enhanced technology, Marbilano has been engineered to deliver superior bonding strength, long-lasting durability and high early strength. The company claims the adhesive achieves near-equivalent strength within just a few days compared to conventional international standard Type-4 adhesives that typically require up to 28 days.

 

Interacting with media persons, Ashok Choudhary expressed his unwavering commitment to the ‘Make in India’ vision, stating that he is a passionate advocate of indigenous manufacturing. He emphasized that his organisation produces ‘Made in India’ products, with negligible or almost zero dependence on imports.

 

He shared that his core mantra is 'Make Local, Export Global,' highlighting the importance of building strong Indian brands that can successfully compete on the world stage. “It is time to build powerful Indian brands and take pride in them. Made in India Ka Danka Bajana Hai! India must proudly showcase its manufacturing strength to the world,” he said.

 

Recalling his long-standing dedication to this cause, he mentioned that he has also produced the film “Wah Zindagi,” which focused on how India can compete with China by strengthening its own manufacturing capabilities and promoting home-grown labels. He cited the example of Gujarat’s Morbi industrial cluster, where tile manufacturers have made India largely self-reliant in the tiles sector, transforming it into a global export hub.

 

Speaking about industry growth, he noted that the adhesive industry is currently valued at approximately ₹25,000 crore and is projected to grow to nearly ₹1 lakh crore within the next five years. He stressed that this growth presents a significant opportunity for Indian manufacturers to dominate both domestic and international markets.

 

Sharing the company’s expansion plans, Choudhary said Mapisa369 intends to establish a robust dealer and distributor network across Chandigarh, Mohali, Panchkula, and surrounding regions.

 

“Our vision is to revolutionise the construction adhesive industry by introducing advanced, technology driven and safety-focused bonding solutions. We aim to set new quality benchmarks, promote safer construction practices, and become a globally trusted brand,” he said.

 

Talking about market potential Chandigarh Capital Region, Choudhary said: ”Chandigarh and the broader Tricity region offer immense growth potential due to rapid expansion in real estate, infrastructure, and premium housing projects.”

 

According to Choudhary, the increasing use of large tiles and heavy stones in modern buildings has made high-performance adhesives essential to prevent tile debonding, cracking, and fall hazards, especially in high-rise structures.

 

The newly launched adhesive features fast-setting capability, high bonding strength, water-resistant and crack-resistant properties, and is particularly suitable for large-format vitrified tiles and natural stones. These attributes make it ideal for modern high-rise and fast-track construction projects, where safety, speed and structural stability are critical.

 

Mapisa369, part of the Shivazza Group with over 25 years of legacy, offers a comprehensive portfolio including tile and stone adhesives, epoxy grouts, joint fillers, waterproofing solutions, block adhesives, and wall putty.

 

 

यह भंडारा सीतापुर(यू.पी) के बाल रोग विशेषज्ञ डॉ सुनील वैश के सौजन्य से आयोजित किया गया: समाज सेवी अमिताभ रूंगटा

पंचकूला, 15 फरवरी 2026: महाशिवरात्रि के पावन अवसर पर अपने सामाजिक दायित्व का निर्वहन करते हुए पुरुषोत्तम दास रूंगटा चैरिटेबल ट्रस्ट ने अपना 203 वां अन्न भंडारा ट्रस्ट के संस्थापक अमिताभ रूंगटा के नेतृत्व में फेज-1 औद्योगिक क्षेत्र में आयोजित किया। यह भंडारा जनसाधारण के लिए समर्पित था। अमिताभ रूंगटा ने बताया कि ट्रस्ट ने यह भंडारा सीतापुर(यू.पी) के  बाल रोग विशेषज्ञ डॉ सुनील वैश  के सौजन्य से आयोजित किया ।


इस अवसर पर स्वयंसेवकों ने श्रद्धालुओं एवं स्थानीय नागरिकों को भोजन परोसा तथा महाशिवरात्रि के पावन पर्व पर अन्न भंडारे के महत्व के बारे में जानकारी दी। साथ ही सभी को महाशिवरात्रि की शुभकामनाएं दी गईं।


इस अवसर पर अमिताभ रूंगटा ने कहा कि अन्न को भंडारे के रूप में परोसना अत्यंत पुण्यदायी होता है। इससे व्यक्ति के कार्यों में बरकत आती है और वह मानवता का वास्तविक अर्थ समझ पाता है। उन्होंने कहा कि प्रत्येक व्यक्ति को समय-समय पर धार्मिक एवं सामाजिक कार्यों में आगे आना चाहिए, जिससे वह समाज के लिए एक प्रेरणा बन सके।


उन्होंने यह भी कहा कि अन्नदान या भंडारा करने से जीवन में ज्ञान और सकारात्मकता का संचार होता है, तथा ज्ञान को बांटने से उसकी वृद्धि होती है।

Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Culinary Connoisseurs Conduct Informative Session on Mindful-Healthful- Tasteful Food

 

 

Chandigarh, February 11, 2026: An 'Informative Session' was conducted by culinary experts Munish & Puja Aggarwal to provide a deep dive into the importance of mindful-healthful- tasteful food. The session was held at Café Wellbeing, Sec 22 which is an initiative of the Aggarwal’s who are also known for establishing Chandigarh’s famous Back to Source Café. The session witnessed a demonstration of in-house ‘masala’ or spice grinding, as well as a peep into the organic ingredients used at the café. Use of fermentation in food for attaining gut health too was a topic of discussion.

 

“Our philosophy is simple – just like eating at home, one's eating out experience should leave you feeling light, clear and nourished, not heavy,” said Munish Aggarwal.

 

He said, “As traditionally believed it is not necessary to view health and taste as opposites - when ingredients are honest and the food preparation process is respectful, taste develops naturally. We don’t believe in masking food with additives.”


 

Notably, Cafe Wellbeing and other restaurants started by the duo, place special emphasis on oils as a critical medium for digestion and nutrient absorption. Rejecting refined and overheated oils, 100 percent cold-pressed oils are used.

 

Talking about oil, Munish said: “Good oil is good for the body, and bad oil is harmful. Refined oils and over-processing have distorted our understanding of food. We use cold-pressed oils, ‘desi khaand’ instead of refined sugar and single-source cow and buffalo milk across our kitchens.”

 

Puja Aggarwal spoke about the significance of fermentation in curation of healthy food. She said, “Fermentation, in particular, plays a central role in Café Wellbeing. Batters, doughs and select beverages are fermented naturally, without chemical accelerators or shortcuts. Fermentation improves gut Health”

 

 “Fermentation is ancient wisdom, not a modern trend. Living food supports a living body. When food is alive, digestion improves and the body responds with balance.” added Puja.

 

Puja also showcased some fermented recipes using cabbage, cucumber, cauliflower among other vegetables, crafted by her using lactic acid fermentation. She also presented naturally fermented and probiotic-rich beverages. “We reimagine even traditionally misunderstood foods like pizzas through proper fermentation, making them easier to digest and nutritionally balanced,” she said.

 

More than 70% of ingredients used at the café are organically sourced, including grains, pulses, vegetables, sweeteners and oils. All spices and masalas are ground fresh daily to preserve aroma, potency, and therapeutic value. 

 

Even the water served at Cafe Wellbeing complements the food. Munish explains, "We offer biocompatible water, specially treated to restore balance to both body and mind. The water uses bio-dynamism technology & is enriched with traces of silver and is infused with light and sound to enhance its natural vitality."

 

The duo explained that in an era dominated by ultra-processed foods, artificial enhancers and fleeting wellness trends, their kitchens focus on traditional techniques such as soaking, fermentation, slow cooking and balanced seasoning.

 

Another defining feature of Cafe Wellbeing is its open-kitchen policy, allowing guests to tour the kitchen, view ingredient storage and witness spices being ground fresh in-house.

 

The café’s menu draws from Indian comfort food, global café classics, and slow-food traditions, all filtered through a clean-process philosophy. Signature dishes include Dal Makhani, Malai Kofta, Desi Chicken, Roghani Naan, Mutton Seekh, Mutton Keema Dosa, Chicken Pepper Fry Dosa, Crisp Jacket Potato, Kathi Rolls, Burgers and Gulab Jamun.

 

In reply to a question, Puja said: “At its core, Cafe Wellbeing stands for a broader belief: organic food is not a brand but a way of life. In a food system increasingly driven by convenience and profit, the café advocates for honesty, traceability and respect for the human body.”

 

“At Cafe Wellbeing, food is not just about eating. It is about how you feel after you eat,” concluded Munish.

Sunday, February 8, 2026

Social Worker Organises Blood Donation Camp

 150 Units of Blood CollectedBook by Health Influencer & Social Worker Amarinder Singh Also Unveiled

A programme organized by social worker Amarinder Singh  in the Phase-7 market of Mohali showcased a beautiful blend of spirituality, service, and health. On one hand, the congregation was blessed with Gurbani Kirtan, and on the other hand, a blood donation camp was organized to assist thalassemia patients, demonstrating a powerful fulfilment of social responsibility. 150 units of blood were collected. The programme also saw the unveiling of the book - ‘The Hair Science: Back to Black – The Ayurvedic Path to Hair Rejuvenation,’ written by Amarinder Singh who is also a renowned health influencer.

Amarinder Singh, popularly known as ‘DietKing’ in the tricity, made this event a reality with his spirit of service.

On this occasion, Amarinder Singh said that the objective of this event was to combine spirituality, health, and social service. He said that acts like blood donation are true service to humanity and spreading health awareness in society is the need of the hour. 

The programme began with a special Gurbani Kirtan, presented soulfully by Bhai Lakhwinder Singh Ji (Chandigarh Wale). The melodious recitation of Gurbani filled the atmosphere with spirituality, and the congregation bowed their heads in reverence. A continuous langar (community meal) service was also organized for the guests.

Former Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh Sidhu attended the grand event as the chief guest, while Mohali Municipal Corporation Mayor Amarjeet Singh Jeeti was present as a special guest. The guests first paid their respects and then interacted with the blood donors, encouraging them.

A large number of blood donors voluntarily donated blood at the blood donation camp organized during the programme. At the camp, a team of specialists from Sohana Hospital collected blood after examining the donors. On this occasion, Randeep Batta, known for his Mission Kashmir to Kanyakumari blood donation awareness campaign and also famous as the Biggest Blood Donor of the Country, was honored by the organisers. Rakesh Sangar of Shri Shiv Kaanwarh Mahasangh Charitable Trust, Panchkula, was also felicitated.

The chief guest released a book written by Amarinder Singh, titled “The Hair Science: Back to Black – The Ayurvedic Path to Hair Rejuvenation,” which focuses on hair loss, premature greying, and various hair-related problems and their Ayurvedic solutions.

Prominent people present on the occasion included J.J. Singh (social worker), Major General M.S. Virk (Retired); S.P. Singh Marar, Retired Additional Secretary & former Additional Deputy Commissioner, Government of Punjab; Wing Commander Balbir Singh (Retired), Ajit Singh (Hockey Olympian), M.S. Multani (Retired Senior Audit Officer), Ashok Kumar Singh (Retired officer of Indian Railways), Sarabjit Singh Toor (Farmer and Prominent Industrialist), Colonel S.S. Boparai (Retired), Rajinder Singh Gill (Ex Merchant Navy officer), Vinod Sharma (Retired Senior Manager, CITCO), and N.S. Brar (Retired Superintending Engineer, Irrigation Department).

Mega Dog Show Organised by Royal Kennel Club Concludes in Panchkula

The Royal Kennel Club Panchkula successfully concluded the 7th edition of its much-awaited Mega Dog Show at the Show Ground, opposite Hotel Holiday Inn, Sector 3, Panchkula. The grand event witnessed enthusiastic participation from dog lovers, breeders, and trainers from across the Tricity, various parts of India, and even abroad, giving it a truly international flavour.

Mr. Arishander Singh, IPS, DGP Vigilance, and Ms. Alba Smeriglio, British Deputy High Commissioner (Chandigarh), graced the occasion as Chief Guests and appreciated the efforts of the organisers in promoting responsible dog ownership and awareness about dog breeds.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sikander Singh of the Royal Kennel Club Panchkula said that the Mega Dog Show has grown into one of the biggest canine events in North India. He added that the event aimed to create awareness about indigenous dog breeds and promote responsible pet care, in line with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s call to encourage the adoption of Indian-bred dogs.

He further informed that Mr. Ankur Gupta, Senior IAS (Retd.), Haryana, Patron and Founder of the Royal Kennel Club Panchkula, has played a pivotal role in establishing and nurturing the club, and continues to guide its vision and activities.

The event was officiated by renowned judges, including Mr. Mukul Vaid, FCI International Dog Show Judge; Ms. Kristiina, Judge from Finland; and Mrs. Yashodhara, All Breeds FCI Licensed Judge, India. Their presence brought together national and international expertise, adding prestige to the show.

The dog show commenced at 9:30 a.m. and continued till 7:00 p.m., drawing large crowds of visitors, dog enthusiasts, senior bureaucrats, VIPs, and distinguished guests.

Expressing his happiness, Sikander Singh said, “I am really glad to be a part of the show at Panchkula. Furry friends have always been close to humans, and such events bring us closer to them. Awareness about various dog breeds is essential for harmonious co-existence in society.”

A wide variety of dog breeds were showcased during the concluding day, including Pomeranian, Pug, Maltese, Chihuahua, French Bulldog, Lhasa Apso, Toy Poodle, Pekingese, Mastiff, Rottweiler, Gaddi, Saint Bernard, Dogo Argentino, Labrador, German Shepherd, Siberian Husky, Chow Chow, Akita Inu, British Bulldog, Shih Tzu, and Standard Poodle, among others.

Trophies were awarded to winning dogs and their trainers across multiple categories, adding excitement and competitive spirit to the event.

The organisers also acknowledged the support of sponsors Planet Pets, Kinder Pandas Play School, Panchkula, and German Language Institute, whose contributions helped make the event a grand success.

Monday, February 2, 2026

Inaugural Function of SAKSHAM 2026 Organised

A Fortnight Long Fuel Conservation Campaign Will Be Held Under SAKSHAM

 

Chandigarh, February 02, 2026: The inaugural programme of SAKSHAM 2026 was held at Rani Laxmi Bai Bhawan, Sector 38 C in the esteemed presence of Shri Diprava Lakra, IAS, Finance Secretary-cum-Secretary Transport, Chandigarh Administration. Under SAKSHAM 2026, Oil industry will hold activities for a fortnight from the 1st Feb’26 to 15th Feb’26, with an aim to raise mass awareness about the importance of conserving petroleum products. The awareness will be held throughout Punjab and Chandigarh (UT). Notably, the inaugural function was jointly organised by State Level Coordinators (SLCs) of Oil Industries of Chandigarh(UT) and Punjab.

 

The event was coordinated by Sh. Ashutosh Gupta, State Level Coordinator, Oil Industry, Punjab and Executive Director & State Head, Punjab State Office, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL); Sh. Sushant Goyal, State Level Coordinator, Oil Industry, Chandigarh U.T. and Chief Regional Manager, Chandigarh Retail, RO Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL); Sh. Akash Bhawan, General Manager and Zonal Head, Chandigarh Zonal Office, Gas Authority of India Ltd(GAIL) and Sh. Ramlal, DGM(Retailing Initiatives), Punjab, J&K, and Chandigarh, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited(BPCL) The oil industry outlined various initiatives during the fortnight across key sectors—transport, industry, agriculture, and domestic—to promote oil and gas conservation.


 

Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator of U.T. Chandigarh’s message to the public on the importance of conservation of fuel and energy was read during the programme. Hon’ble Governor emphasized that SAKSHAM 2026 plays an important role in creating public awareness on conservation of petroleum and natural gas, which are valuable national resources. He highlighted that responsible and judicious use of energy is essential not only for economic growth but also for environmental sustainability and called upon citizens to actively participate in SAKSHAM 2026 to promote fuel conservation, energy efficiency, and a cleaner, climate-resilient future.

 

In his address, Chief Guest of the event Shri Diprava Lakra, IAS, Finance Secretary-cum-Secretary Transport, Chandigarh Administration emphasized the critical need for conserving petroleum products. He urged students and citizens to adopt fuel-saving practices to reduce the nation's dependence on imports and conserve valuable foreign exchange.

 

Shri Ashutosh Gupta, State Level Coordinator, Oil Industry, Punjab and Executive Director & State Head, Punjab State Office, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) also encouraged school children, media personnel, and the citizens of Chandigarh and Punjab to actively participate in conservation efforts. A pledge to conserve oil & petroleum was also taken at the inaugural function. A ‘nukkad natak’ to create awareness about fuel conservation too was presented. The inaugural function featured the flagging off a mobile van adorned with slogans promoting saving oil and gas to raise public awareness. Mr M K Sinha, GM(Lubes), IOCL delivered a vote of thanks and reiterated the message of conservation and importance of SAKSHAM.

 


The event witnessed significant participation from students and prominent citizens, reflecting a collective commitment to energy conservation. SAKSHAM 2026 serves as a vital initiative to educate the public on the importance of conserving petroleum resources. Through collective efforts, the nation’s dependence on imports can be reduced, India can conserve foreign exchange and also ensure the longevity of oil reserves.

 

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...