February 9, 2026 - Darpan Chandigarh

BJP Chandigarh Decodes Union Budget 2026 for Common Citizens

Darpan News Network / February 9, 2026

Panel discussion at Rajasthan Bhawan highlights AI labs, MSME growth, and healthcare reforms in the national vision CHANDIGARH – The Intellectual Cell of BJP Chandigarh organized a high-level panel discussion titled ‘Union Budget 2026: From Economic Policy to National Vision’ on February 9 at Rajasthan Bhawan. The session was designed to demystify the fiscal roadmap for the general public, highlighting its focus on employment, self-reliance, and inclusive economic growth. BJP Chandigarh President Jitender Pal Malhotra attended the event as the chief guest, while Dr. Monica B. Sood, Convenor of the Intellectual Cell, led the discussions alongside the cell’s core team. “The programme was organised as part of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s nationwide outreach to demystify the Union Budget and connect economic policy with everyday life,” Dr. Monica B. Sood stated during a media interaction. “The panel discussion aimed at breaking down the key provisions of the budget in simple terms.” Focus on Technology and Digital Sovereignty A significant portion of the discussion centered on the shift in global power dynamics. Dr. Sood noted that while past conflicts were fought over fuel, the future would be defined by semiconductors and data control. To address this, the Union Budget 2026 has allocated significant funding for the establishment of 15,000 advanced technology laboratories across India. These labs are intended to train students in AI, robotics, data science, and quantum computing. The budget also prioritizes STEM education for girls and proposes the construction of hostels in every district to ensure equitable access to technical training. Infrastructure and Connectivity The panel, moderated by Advocate Pooja Nayar (Chairperson, TiE Women), discussed the role of robust infrastructure in national strength. Key highlights noted by the panelists included: Strengthening MSMEs and Healthcare The panelists, including financial expert CMA Rakesh Bhalla and Puneet Verma (President, TiE Chandigarh), examined the ₹10,000 crore allocation aimed at strengthening MSMEs and SMEs. Dr. Sood highlighted that under the Prime Minister’s Start-up Mission, approximately 1.4 lakh startups are launched annually, acting as a major source of job creation. In the healthcare sector, the discussion focused on the removal of import duties on critical life-saving drugs to enhance affordability. Furthermore, the establishment of three AIIMS-level Ayurveda institutions and the Bio-Shakti Mission were identified as pivotal steps toward pharmaceutical self-reliance. The session concluded with an emphasis on the long-term nature of the fiscal plan. Dr. Sood characterized the Union Budget 2026 as a “future-building roadmap” aligned with the vision of transforming India into a global super economy, urging citizens to engage more deeply with finance and technology. I

IS Dev Samaj School Hosts ‘Udaari’ Farewell for Class XII Students

Seniors are honored with titles and cultural performances as they prepare for a new journey beyond the classroom. CHANDIGARH – On February 9, the campus of I S Dev Samaj Senior Secondary School, Sector 21C, was filled with vibrant colors and emotions as Class XI students organized ‘Udaari,’ a formal farewell ceremony for the outgoing Class XII batch. The event marked the conclusion of the seniors’ academic journey at the institution and celebrated their transition into higher education. The I S Dev Samaj School farewell party was presided over by Principal Dr. Sabeeha Dhillon Mangat, who commended the staff and students for the successful execution of the program. Addressing the students, Dr. Mangat emphasized the importance of maintaining core values during their future pursuits. “Do stay grounded and true to your values and try to attain great heights as you embark on your higher education and career journey,” Dr. Mangat stated. She further urged the outgoing batch to carry the “spirit of Dev Samaj” into their future endeavors. Highlights and Award Winners A central feature of the celebration was the traditional ramp walk, where students displayed confidence and style before a panel of judges. Several students were recognized with honorary titles for their performance and personality: Category Title Winner Girls Ms Dev Samaj Hanshika Ms Charming Tamanna Ms Talented Gracy Verma Boys Mr Dev Samaj Vivek Sonkar Mr Personality Pranav Vohra Mr Talented Vaidik Kumar Distinguished Guests and Cultural Show The event was graced by Chief Guest Dr. Mrs. Jaspal Kaur, Manager of Ishwar Singh Dev Samaj Senior Secondary School, Sector 21. Dr. Kaur encouraged the students to uphold high moral and ethical standards in their professional and personal lives. Mrs. Shefali Cheema, Assistant Professor at Dev Samaj College of Education, Sector 36, also attended the function as the Guest of Honour. The cultural segment of the afternoon featured a diverse array of talent. Students performed choreographed dance routines and musical sets, alongside self-composed poetry recitations that reflected on their years spent at the school. The ‘Udaari’ celebration concluded with a celebratory lunch, providing a final opportunity for the students and faculty to bond and document memories before the commencement of the upcoming board examinations.