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October 17, 2025

MSME RAMP Programme
Chandigarh

PHDCCI Hosts 5th Awareness Session on MSME RAMP Programme in Chandigarh

The event focused on empowering MSMEs through awareness of government schemes, technology access, and financial opportunities. Chandigarh, October 17:The Chandigarh Chapter of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), in collaboration with the Industries Department, Chandigarh Administration, organized the 5th Awareness Session under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Programme Series at PHD House, Sector 31, Chandigarh. The event aimed to educate Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) about various government schemes, financial support systems, and technology-driven initiatives designed to enhance their productivity and competitiveness in today’s dynamic market. Adv. Lokesh Jain, Convener, Regional MSME Committee, PHDCCI, emphasized the need for continuous awareness programs to ensure MSMEs fully leverage available government benefits. He described the RAMP initiative as a landmark project by the Government of India, empowering MSMEs — “the true backbone of India’s economy.” Welcoming guests and participants, Ms. Bharti Sood, Senior Regional Director, PHDCCI, highlighted the Chamber’s consistent efforts to promote MSME growth through capacity building, training, and policy advocacy. She explained that the RAMP Programme, supported by the World Bank and the Ministry of MSME, aims to strengthen the MSME ecosystem by facilitating improved access to technology, finance, and market opportunities. Prominent speakers included Mr. Mohit, Additional Director, MSME-DFO Ludhiana; Mr. Nibhay Gargya, Director, NCG Corporate Engineers; Mr. Pramod Kumar Mishra, Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited; and Mr. Shiv Shankar Kumar, Co-Convener, Regional Banking and Financial Services Committee, PHDCCI. They shared valuable insights on topics such as government policy updates, renewable energy adoption, technological transformation, and financial tools that can help MSMEs sustain and scale their operations. The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, where participants engaged with experts to clarify doubts and share experiences. In her Vote of Thanks, Ms. Bharti Sood reaffirmed PHDCCI’s commitment to strengthening the regional MSME sector through sustained collaboration, awareness programs, and skill development initiatives. She emphasized that the Chamber will continue to serve as a bridge between MSMEs and policymakers to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth.

Nissan Magnite CNG retrofit
Chandigarh

Nissan Expands CNG Retrofit Program for Magnite EZ-Shift

Nissan Motor India now offers government-certified CNG retrofit for the new Magnite BR10 EZ-Shift (AMT), extending its eco-friendly mobility solutions. Chandigarh, October 17:Nissan Motor India has announced the expansion of its CNG retrofitment program to include the new Nissan Magnite BR10 EZ-Shift (AMT) variant. The retrofit option, certified by the government, aims to provide customers with more affordable and eco-friendly mobility choices. The decision follows the strong customer response to the manual transmission (MT) version of the Magnite BR10 CNG retrofit launched earlier this year. Nissan said the move reinforces its commitment to delivering efficient, customer-centric mobility solutions. The Magnite EZ-Shift CNG now comes with a 3-year or 1 lakh km warranty, ensuring peace of mind for owners. All CNG-retrofitted Magnite models feature a standard fuel lid with an integrated dual-fuel filling system, enhancing convenience and safety. Nissan has priced the CNG retrofit kit at ₹71,999, passing on GST reduction benefits directly to customers. The retrofit kits will be available through authorized centers across 13 Indian states, making the upgrade easily accessible nationwide. Speaking about the announcement, Saurabh Vats, Managing Director of Nissan Motor India, said, “The new fuel-lid integration and reduced CNG kit pricing make the Nissan ownership experience even smoother and more rewarding. We remain committed to offering practical, value-based mobility solutions that enhance customer satisfaction and strengthen trust in our brand.” The company believes the EZ-Shift CNG retrofit will appeal to customers looking for better fuel economy without compromising performance. Nissan’s initiative aligns with India’s growing push toward sustainable and cleaner automotive technologies, as CNG vehicles continue to gain popularity due to their lower running costs and reduced emissions. With this expansion, Nissan aims to reach a wider customer base seeking eco-conscious options in the compact SUV segment. The Magnite, already known for its bold design and reliability, now becomes even more attractive for value-driven Indian buyers. The brand continues to enhance accessibility and affordability through such innovations, ensuring that green mobility is no longer a premium choice but a practical one for every driver in India.

Golden Hour in road accidents
Chandigarh

Golden Hour Crucial to Save Lives After Road Accidents: Experts

Park Hospital Mohali doctors highlight the rising trauma cases and stress the importance of quick medical response within the first 60 minutes after an accident. Chandigarh,Doctors at Park Hospital, Mohali emphasized the critical importance of the ‘Golden Hour’ in saving lives after road accidents. During a press conference, they expressed concern over the sharp rise in trauma cases across North India. Dr. Bhanu Pratap Singh, Director of Orthopedics and Robotic Joint Replacement Surgery, said it is unfortunate that while global road accidents have declined by 5% in the past 12 years, India has witnessed a 15.3% increase. “About 83% of traffic-related deaths in India are caused by road accidents,” he said. “People must understand that the first 60 minutes after a crash are crucial. If the patient reaches the right hospital at the right time, many lives can be saved.” He added that nearly 70% of road accident deaths result from speeding. Dr. Anil Sofat, Consultant Neurosurgery, pointed out that India owns just 1% of the world’s vehicles but reports the highest number of accident-related deaths globally. “Most victims suffer fatal head, chest, and gastrointestinal injuries,” he said. Dr. Ankur Sharma, Consultant Plastic Surgery, highlighted that not wearing seat belts and overspeeding are the main causes of severe head injuries. He also mentioned drunk driving, signal jumping, distraction, and wrong-lane overtaking as key contributors to the country’s growing road accident toll. Dr. Ashish Sharma, Consultant GI Surgery, noted that two-wheelers remain the most vulnerable mode of transport. “Motorcyclists are 26 times more likely to die in road crashes than car drivers. Wearing a good helmet can increase survival chances by 42% and reduce brain injuries by 74%,” he said. He further added, “A properly strapped helmet can prevent death in 90% of accident cases.” Dr. Rohit Jaswal, CEO of Park Hospital Mohali, informed that the hospital is now empanelled with ECHS, CGHS, ESI, Ayushman Bharat Haryana and Himachal Pradesh, along with all major TPAs and corporates. “We perform all types of trauma and sports injury surgeries regularly,” he said. The doctors concluded with a call to follow traffic rules, control speed, wear seat belts, and use helmets to prevent accidents and save lives.