Joint Secretary of UGC Visits Panjab University

CHANDIGARH,On May 22, 2025, Dr. R. Manoj Kumar, Joint Secretary of the University Grants Commission (UGC), visited Panjab University, Chandigarh. The event was organized by the Centre for the Study of Social Inclusion, PU. The objective of the program was to promote dialogue in the field of research and inclusive policy and to directly engage with university faculty and research scholars. The program commenced with a welcome address by Prof. Virender Kumar Negi, Director of the Social Inclusion Centre, who expressed his pride in hosting a senior UGC official at the department for an interactive session with students and faculty members. During his visit, Dr. R. Manoj Kumar engaged in meaningful discussions with teachers, research scholars and representatives from various departments on campus. He attentively listened to the concerns of the research scholars and assured them of feasible solutions through UGC support. In the course of the discussion, he shed light on issues such as inclusivity in higher education, the quality of research and the process of academic grants. The interactive session also involved in depth deliberations on topics like academic development and leadership. Dr. Manoj Kumar encouraged the scholars and informed them about various UGC schemes and funding policies, which could help make their research work more impactful. This program, organized by Panjab University not only served as an inspiring platform for academicians but also proved to be a strong initiative in fostering dialogue between the UGC and the academic community. At the conclusion of the event, Dr. Kanchan Chandan from the Social Inclusion Centre extended a vote of thanks to the chief guest for his visit to the university. On this occasion, Prof. Rattan Singh, Prof. Vishal Sharma and all research scholars from the Social Inclusion Center were present.

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Development of Panjab University South Campus, Sector-25

Conceptual Master Plan Approved with Strong Student-Centric Focus

Chandigarh, May 22, 2025-The Chandigarh Administration has granted conceptual approval for the Master Plan of Panjab University’s Sector-25 campus, paving the way for a major phase of expansion and infrastructure development with a strong focus on student welfare and academic advancement.

Thanking the Chandigarh Administration, Panjab University Vice Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig stated that the conceptual Master Plan has been designed with a student-centric focus. The University aims to develop the South Campus to address the growing needs of students and faculty, particularly through the enhancement of academic infrastructure to support emerging and interdisciplinary fields. Both campuses will complement each other, with new facilities being developed on the Sector-25 campus. With this approval, Panjab University can start working to transform its South Campus into a modern, student-focused centre of academic excellence.

As part of the plan, nine new academic blocks have been proposed, in addition to the twelve already housing sixteen departments across healthcare, business management, sciences, and social sciences. To support academic engagement, a dedicated Library-cum-Reading Hall has been proposed to supplement the main sector 14 campus library. This modern, resource-rich facility will help manage the growing academic load and provide students with quiet, well-equipped study zones near their departments in Sector-25.

For sports and recreation, 2.75 acres have been centrally allocated, mirroring the open and active layout of the Sector-14 campus. Additionally, a Student Activity Centre is planned to become a vibrant hub for extracurricular engagement and cultural programming.

To improve accessibility and manage traffic efficiently, a multilevel basement parking facility with a capacity of 700 vehicles is proposed near the UIET Gate. This will help regulate external vehicle entry and ensure a safer, more pedestrian-friendly environment for students and staff.

As per the approved plan, residential facilities will be significantly expanded to create a safe and inclusive living environment. The Master Plan includes four girls’ hostels, two boys’ hostels—including one new facility—and an International Hostel to accommodate overseas students. Of these, three girls’ hostels, one boys’ hostel, and the International Hostel are already functional. These facilities will be located within a clearly demarcated Residential Zone on the northwest side of the campus, ensuring privacy while maintaining proximity to academic blocks.

Among the key infrastructure projects currently underway is a 2,200-seat auditorium, envisioned as a platform for academic conferences, cultural events, and student-led initiatives. A four-storeyed Technology Block near the Dental Hospital is also in the pipeline, designed to support start-ups and innovation through student and faculty collaboration.

The approval of the Master Plan follows a thorough review by the Town Planning Wing of the Chandigarh Administration. It received clearance from the Technical Sub-Committee of the Chandigarh Heritage Conservation Committee (CHCC) in May 2024, followed by approval from the Main Committee in August 2024. Based on these recommendations, formal approval was granted by the Chief Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh.