CHANDIGARH, 11.09.25-Chandigarh Administration launches “Create Your Start-Up” in collaboration with DST Technology Enabling Centre, Panjab University

The Chandigarh Administration, in collaboration with the DST-Technology Enabling Centre (DST-TEC), Panjab University, has launched a flagship entrepreneurial initiative “Create Your Start-Up (CYS)” - a six-month program designed to nurture aspiring entrepreneurs into future-ready startup founders.

The program is open to students, faculty, researchers, and professionals, and will run from October 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026. The last date for registration is September 30, 2025.

With a strong focus on Fintech and Service-based Startups, the program also encourages ventures based on patented technologies from premier institutes (IITs, NITs, and universities), while addressing critical industry pain points identified through direct engagement with businesses. Notably, DST-TEC has already engaged with over 100 industries and documented more than 150 real-world challenges, providing participants with innovation-driven opportunities.

Delivered in a hybrid mode, the curriculum includes 12 structured sessions (2 hours each) and nine practical assignments, covering:
•Startup formation, government schemes, and registration processes.
•Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) & Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs).
•Regulatory landscape in Fintech & Services (RBI, SEBI, data protection, compliance).
•Leveraging India’s Digital Infrastructure (UPI, ONDC, Aadhaar).
•Market research, investment planning, financial projections, and pitch deck preparation.

Participants will be mentored by CEOs, startup founders, investors, and distinguished alumni from IITs, IIMs, and other leading institutions—ensuring a balance of theory and hands-on application.

The program will culminate with a prestigious Investors’ Meet on March 12, 2026, where shortlisted startups will pitch their ventures to investors for potential funding in exchange for equity. Graduates will also receive a Certificate from DST-TEC, Panjab University, along with six months of free post-program support.

Speaking about the initiative, Sh. Diprava Lakra, IAS, Secretary Finance, Chandigarh Administration, said: “Chandigarh Administration is keen to evolve the city into a fountainhead of startups. Through Create Your Startup (CYS), we expect the creation of promising ventures, and we will work to facilitate attractive equity-based funding opportunities for them.”

Prof. Manu Sharma, Honorary Director, CIIPP, Coordinator DST-TEC, PU, and Coordinator of the CYS program, said: “CYS is an excellent opportunity to create deep-tech start-ups around patented technologies of IITs, NITs, and universities. We are also creating an Angel Network of Panjab University, primarily consisting of its alumni, to provide budding entrepreneurs access to equity funding at excellent terms.”

Dr. Sadaf Jan, Manager, DST-TEC, PU, and Co-Coordinator of the CYS program, added: “CYS is designed to handhold aspiring entrepreneurs through every stage of their journey—from ideation to investor connect. By combining structured training, industry engagement, and expert mentoring, we aim to empower participants to convert their ideas into scalable ventures and strengthen Chandigarh’s startup ecosystem.”

How to Apply:
Registration is open until September 30, 2025.
Apply here: https://forms.gle/Vha6erRrKVWMhZP37

For more information, please contact:
•Prof. Manu Sharma: +91 98885 09778 | manu@pu.ac.in
•Dr. Sadaf Jan: +91 91496 69636 | manager_ipr@pu.ac.in
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National TB Elimination Program, Health Department, U.T. Chandigarh, in collaboration with YosAid Innovation Foundation, launches TB Mobile Care Companion Service

In a major step towards strengthening the fight against tuberculosis—a vision of our Hon’ble Prime Minister—the National TB Elimination Program, Health Department, U.T. Chandigarh, in collaboration with YosAid Innovation Foundation, officially launched the TB Mobile Care Companion Service.

The initiative was launched under the dynamic leadership of the Chief Secretary, Chandigarh Administration, and the able guidance of the Secretary Health, Chandigarh Administration, with implementation overseen by Dr. Suman Singh, Director Health Services-cum-Mission Director, NHM, Chandigarh.

The launch event was held at GMSH-16, where Dr. Navneet, State TB Officer (STO), presented a detailed overview of the service, emphasizing its potential to transform TB care through digital innovation.

This free WhatsApp and IVRS-based platform is an innovative step to ensure accessible, timely, and patient-friendly support for TB patients. The service provides:
• Personalized treatment reminders
• Nutrition and wellness tips
• Information on government support schemes
• Expert answers to TB-related queries

A unique highlight of the service is the introduction of two interactive digital characters — Vijeta (TB warrior) and Vikram (her NIKSHAY sathi). These engaging characters are designed to motivate and guide patients throughout their treatment journey, reinforcing the message that no one fights TB alone.

By promoting treatment adherence, ensuring regular follow-ups, and providing family-centric care, this digital initiative empowers patients and caregivers with timely support and information. It significantly strengthens the community’s response to TB.

This collaborative effort reflects the strong commitment of the Health Department, U.T. Chandigarh, and its partners to harness technology for advancing public health.

With the launch of the TB Mobile Care Companion Service, Chandigarh has taken a significant step forward in its mission to eliminate TB and move closer to a healthier, TB-free future.

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Joint Raid on Unlicensed Medical Device Shop by Drugs Control Wing, Chandigarh along with CDSCO, Baddi

CHANDIGARH, 11.09.25- As per the directions of the Chief Secretary, Chandigarh Administration, and under the guidance of Secretary Health and Director Health Services, U.T. Administration, the Drugs Control Department, Chandigarh, in coordination with officials of CDSCO, Baddi, conducted a joint raid on 10.09.2025 at 04:00 PM at an unlicensed medical device shop, M/s JDS Infotech, Khuda Lahora, Chandigarh.

During the raid, the team seized 1,050 imported infusion pumps valued at approximately Rs. 8,00,000/-, which were found to have been imported without a valid import drug license and sale license. Since the products were imported without authorization, further proceedings are being undertaken by the Central Drugs Control Department (CDSCO), New Delhi.

It may be noted that under the Medical Devices Rules, 2017, notified by the Government of India, several medical devices that were previously exempt from licensing requirements have now been brought under the ambit of licensing/registration by the Central as well as State Drugs Licensing Authorities.

All stakeholders engaged in the sale or purchase of medical devices/diagnostics are hereby advised to obtain the requisite registration or drug licenses as mandated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and the Medical Devices Rules, 2017 to avoid stringent legal action and penalties.

The Chandigarh Administration affirms that such enforcement drives will continue in the future, and strict action will be taken against violators.

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A significant initiative has been undertaken to strengthen the Child Protection Mechanism in U.T. Chandigarh

Chandigarh, 11.09.2025: A significant initiative has been undertaken to strengthen the Child Protection Mechanism in U.T. Chandigarh, with the formulation of Baal SARTHY (Sensitization & Awareness Through Youth on Child Protection Matters) Clubs. A meeting in this regard was held today under the Chairpersonship of Mrs. Anuradha Chagti, Secretary, Social Welfare, Women & Child Development, Chandigarh Administration.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Palika Arora, Director Social Welfare, Principals of Government Colleges, representatives of Panjab University, and the Program Manager, Union Territory Child Protection Society, Chandigarh.

On this occasion, the official logo of the Baal SARTHY Club was formally launched by the Secretary, Social Welfare, marking the importance of the initiative and the beginning of dedicated efforts to bring every child under a strong Child Protection Safety Net.

The Baal SARTHY Clubs will be established in 23 colleges across U.T. Chandigarh and Panjab University with the objective of strengthening child protection and prevention mechanisms through active youth engagement. These clubs aim to enhance awareness and advocacy of child rights among students and encourage their meaningful participation in addressing child-related issues within the community at large.

Each club will comprise both teachers and students of the respective institutions, who will be oriented and empowered to safeguard children through effective implementation of the 3 R’s – Recognize, Report, and Refer.

The Department of Social Welfare will conduct sensitization programs for Baal SARTHY Club members to strengthen their understanding of child-centric schemes, legislations, issues concerning children, and existing reporting mechanisms.