The Chief Secretary emphasized that the Research & Development Scheme should focus on promoting innovation, strengthening scientific research and ensuring tangible outcomes with wider societal impact.

A review meeting was held on May 21, 2026 under the chairmanship of Chief Electoral Officer, U.T. Chandigarh, Ms. Prerna Puri, IAS, to assess preparedness and coordination for the exercise.

The MoU was formally signed by Sh. Avikesh Gupta (PCS), Director Transport, U.T. Chandigarh and Sh. Pawan Kumar Sharma, Head, Energy Management Cell/SDA Chandigarh. Sh. Yashjeet Gupta, Chief Operations Manager, Chandigarh City Bus Services Society (CCBSS) was also present during the signing event.

Speaking on the occasion, CITCO Managing Director Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, IAS, said, “Tea brings people together, and CITCO was delighted to celebrate this special day with unique tea experiences for its guests.” Further, CITCO Chief General Manager Mr. Naveen Rattu, DANICS, stated, “International Tea Day reflects India’s rich tea culture, and CITCO warmly welcomed everyone to enjoy the celebrations at its properties.”

On the appeal of Punjab Governor and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria, “No Vehicle Wednesday” was observed by the Chandigarh Administration to promote sustainable and environment-friendly commuting practices.

Hon'ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Lays the Foundation Stone Union Minister of State for Railways, Shri Ravneet Singh Bittu, Announces: Closure of Level Crossing No Longer Mandatory After Construction of ROB

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary emphasized that cleanliness and scientific waste management cannot be achieved solely through Government efforts and require behavioural change and active public participation at every level.

Sets an Example by Avoiding the Use of Petrol and Diesel Vehicles on Wednesdays

Reviewing the overall preparedness of Chandigarh Police, the Chief Secretary emphasized the need to further strengthen manpower, operational capacity and specialized training, keeping in view Chandigarh’s status as the capital of two States and one Union Territory, besides having several vital installations and major market areas.

Addressing the gathering, the Administrator said that providing educational support to children is not merely an act of charity but a powerful and visionary initiative towards nation building.

Four Punjab Cadre IAS Probationers — Subrat Singh Balot, Gurkanwal Singh, Himanshu, and Adiba Anam Ashfaque Ahemad — paid a courtesy call on Punjab Governor and Adminstrator Chandigarh Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria at Punjab Lok Bhavan, Chandigarh.

The meeting was attended by Rajiv Tewari, Joint Secretary, State Agricultural Marketing Board, Khushpreet, Administrator, Market Committee, Chandigarh, along with other officials of the State Agricultural Marketing Board and Market Committee.

Speaking on this year’s theme, “Museums Uniting a Divided World,” the Administrator said museums help people understand the country’s history, culture and traditions while promoting mutual respect and understanding.

The Chief Secretary also directed the department to explore signing an MoU between UT Chandigarh and the Institute of Secretariat Training & Management (ISTM) for conducting specialised training programmes.

After the announcement of SIR, a team of officers from the Election Commission of India comprising Sh. Santosh Kumar Dubey, Secretary and Sh. Sanjay Kumar, Under Secretary, visited U.T., Chandigarh on 18.05.2026 and interacted with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), District Election Officer (DEO), Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) and Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs) to provide training and necessary guidance regarding the Special Intensive Revision process.

Punjab Universities Asked to Prioritise Mental Wellness Alongside Academic Excellence Conference of Vice-Chancellors on “Uniform Policy on Mental Health & Well-being for Higher Educational Institutions” organised at Punjab Lok Bhavan

In this regard, Deputy Commissioner, Chandigarh Shri Nishant Kumar Yadav clarified that no such orders have been issued by the Chandigarh Administration imposing any restriction or limit on the sale of petrol or diesel in the city.

The Chief Engineer emphasized the need for timely execution of the works to improve sanitation, drainage, and overall infrastructure conditions in the Grain Market area.

Administrator Announces Career Counselling and Support Initiatives for Deserving Students

The Chief Secretary directed the officers to further strengthen enforcement activities and maintain strict vigil over all excise licensees.