Medicinal Plant Garden Inaugurated at T.S. Central State Library, Sector 17, Chandigarh
Chandigarh, 14 June 2025 — A Medicinal Plant Garden was formally inaugurated today at the T.S. Central State Library, Sector 17, Chandigarh, by Dr. Manmohan Singh, Chairman, Chandigarh Sahitya Akademi.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Manmohan Singh lauded the library’s efforts in integrating environmental consciousness with knowledge dissemination. He emphasized the importance of reconnecting with nature and preserving traditional wisdom in today’s fast-paced world. “Such initiatives not only beautify our surroundings but also serve as living classrooms, especially for the younger generation,” he noted.
The medicinal plant garden features over 10 varieties of herbs and plants as of now, renowned for their therapeutic properties, including tulsi, aloe vera, ashwagandha, brahmi, Nirgundi, Gurmari, lemon, guava
Stivia and giloy. In future, more plants will be added.
According to Mrs Neelam Bansal, Library Incharge- This unique initiative aims to promote awareness about India’s rich heritage of medicinal plants and their role in natural healing and wellness.
Dr. Neeza Singh, Librarian, shared that the garden is envisioned as a dynamic space where visitors can learn about natural remedies and sustainable living. She highlighted that the library will organize guided tours, workshops, and interactive sessions in the garden to further this cause.
The event was attended by eminent citizens, environmental enthusiasts, and library patrons. The initiative has been widely appreciated as a step towards fostering a greener and healthier community.
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Six-day Lantern Puppet Theatre Workshop for children successfully concluded
Chandigarh, 14 June 2025 — The T.S. Central State Library, Sector 17, Chandigarh, successfully concluded its six-day Lantern Puppet Theatre Workshop for children aged 7 to 14 years, organised as part of the library’s vibrant summer programme ‘Summerfest 2025’.
The finale event showcased an enchanting puppet theatre performance based on “The Selfish Giant” by Oscar Wilde. Through handmade lantern puppets, the children beautifully depicted the timeless moral of the story — the joy of sharing, kindness, and the beauty of an open heart.
The workshop was conducted by renowned puppeteer Mr. Subhasis Neogi and his team, who guided the participants in designing puppets, creating scenes, and mastering performance techniques.
The event was graced by Dr. Manmohan Singh, Chairman of Chandigarh Sahitya Akademi, as Chief Guest. He commended the young participants and the library team for their efforts in promoting art and culture among children.
Mrs. Neelam Bansal, Library Incharge, delivered the welcome address and appreciated the enthusiastic participation of children and the support of parents.
The event was organised under the leadership of Dr. Neeza Singh, who expressed pride in the creativity, discipline, and teamwork displayed by the participants. She reiterated the library’s commitment to nurturing young minds through art, culture, and literature.
Parents attending the event shared heartfelt feedback, with many expressing that their children were so engaged by the workshop that they preferred attending library activities over going on holiday during the summer break — a testament to the meaningful impact of the initiative.
Certificates were awarded to all participants, and the event was widely appreciated by the audience. The programme reinforced the library’s growing reputation as a centre for innovative learning and cultural enrichment in the city.