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Author name: Darpan News Network

Kidspreneur Exhibition Mohali
Mohali, Tri-City Update

Young Entrepreneurs Dazzle at CP67 Mall’s “Kidspreneur” Exhibition

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Children from across Tricity showcased creativity and business talent at CP67 Mall’s Kidspreneur event organized with Prepright. Mohali: CP67 Mall, in collaboration with Prepright, hosted Kidspreneur — an innovative entrepreneurial exhibition that celebrated the creativity, innovation, and business skills of young minds. The event turned the mall into a lively marketplace where children became entrepreneurs for a day, presenting their unique products, ideas, and creative concepts. The exhibition aimed to nurture enterprise and confidence among children by giving them hands-on experience in marketing and presentation. From handmade décor and festive crafts to eco-friendly products and DIY creations, every stall reflected imagination and originality. Speaking on the occasion, Umang Jindal, CEO of Homeland Group, said, “At CP67, we believe in inspiring the next generation to dream big and think bold. Kidspreneur is not just an exhibition — it is an empowering platform that builds confidence, communication skills, and entrepreneurial thinking in children.” Among the many talented participants were Ivana Trehan and Aanam Virk from The Sparkle Studio, who displayed Diwali décor, painted jars, and fairy gardens. “We wanted to spread joy through handmade creations this festive season,” they shared. Kabir Singh Thethi from Meraki Studio impressed visitors with his creative Lego games and décor, while Krisha Rawat from Nature Ninjas showcased sustainable planters and greenery, promoting eco-conscious living. Students from leading schools such as Strawberry Fields High School, Manav Rachna, Firstep Schools, Dass & Brown, and Bhavan Vidyalaya participated, along with representatives from over 20 schools across Tricity. With the active support of Prepright, the initiative encouraged children to explore practical learning through creativity and teamwork. The event not only provided a platform for innovation but also highlighted CP67 Mall’s ongoing commitment to supporting young talent and promoting experiential education. Kidspreneur 2025 stood out as a vibrant blend of learning, fun, and entrepreneurship — inspiring young innovators to think differently and believe in their ideas.

Dr Aman Sharma IRA President
Chandigarh

Dr. Aman Sharma Takes Charge as President of Indian Rheumatology Association

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Renowned PGIMER expert assumes IRA leadership at IRACON 2025 held in New Delhi. Chandigarh:Dr. Aman Sharma, Professor in the Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology division of the Department of Internal Medicine at PGIMER, Chandigarh, has been appointed as the new President of the Indian Rheumatology Association (IRA). The announcement was made during the valedictory ceremony of the 40th Annual Conference of the Indian Rheumatology Association (IRACON 2025), held at Yashobhoomi, India International Convention & Expo Centre, Dwarka, New Delhi. The four-day conference, from October 9 to 12, brought together around 2,000 rheumatologists, clinical immunologists, researchers, and trainees from India and abroad. Dr. Sharma has earlier served the IRA as Secretary, Treasurer, and Executive Committee Member. His work focuses on rare rheumatic diseases, systemic vasculitis, and relapsing polychondritis. He is credited with identifying that DADA2, a rare disease, can also occur in adults. He is the founder of national disease registries such as INVAR (Indian Vasculitis Registry) and IRPR (Indian Relapsing Polychondritis Registry), and has developed diagnostic criteria in complex disease domains, including the Sharma and Pinto criteria for Poncet’s disease. Since January 2023, Dr. Sharma has been serving as Editor-in-Chief of the Indian Journal of Rheumatology. He also features in Stanford University’s list of the world’s top 2% researchers in his field. Dr. Sharma has been honored with numerous national and international awards, including the Rabindranath Tagore Oration (2019), CMC Vellore Eminent Mid-Career Rheumatologist Oration (2018), Zydus Oration (2011), and IRA Young Investigator Award (2007), among others. With over 560 research papers, 70 book chapters, and 10 edited books—including two editions of the Textbook of Systemic Vasculitis—Dr. Sharma has played a pivotal role in advancing rheumatology in India. He was instrumental in establishing the DM program in Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology at PGIMER. His appointment as IRA President marks a new chapter in the association’s leadership, combining clinical excellence, research innovation, and education to strengthen rheumatology care and awareness nationwide.

Volvo EX30 electric SUV
Chandigarh

Volvo EX30 Electric SUV Unveiled in Chandigarh with Smart Features

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Volvo Car India introduces its most sustainable BEV, the EX30, offering advanced technology, Scandinavian design, and a strong push toward eco-friendly mobility. Chandigarh: Volvo Car India has officially unveiled its latest all-electric SUV, the Volvo EX30, marking a new milestone in sustainable mobility. Test drives for the much-anticipated model are now available at Krishna Volvo Cars, Chandigarh. The official price announcement is expected in October 2025, with the vehicle being assembled at Volvo’s Hosakote plant in Bengaluru. The EX30 is Volvo’s most sustainable car to date, crafted from recycled materials such as denim, PET bottles, and PVC pipes. Combining Scandinavian design with cutting-edge technology, it delivers a stylish yet eco-conscious driving experience. The SUV has also earned a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, reaffirming Volvo’s commitment to safety. The car’s Safe Space Technology includes five cameras, five radars, and twelve ultrasonic sensors. It also features intersection auto brake, door-opening alerts, and advanced collision mitigation systems, ensuring maximum safety on Indian roads. Inside, the EX30 offers five ambient lighting themes, inspired by Nordic seasons, paired with a Harman Kardon soundbar powered by a 1040W amplifier and nine speakers. The 12.3-inch high-resolution centre display comes Google built-in, with 5G connectivity and OTA updates for a seamless digital experience. The Single Motor Extended Range variant offers 272 hp, 343 Nm torque, and a 69 kWh battery providing up to 480 km WLTP range. It accelerates from 0–100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds, with a top speed of 180 km/h. The EX30 also includes one-pedal drive, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping aid for enhanced convenience. “With the EX30, we are not just launching a car; we are shaping the future of sustainable luxury,” said a Volvo Cars India spokesperson. Volvo Cars India, operating since 2007, currently serves customers through 25 dealerships across major Indian cities. With the EX30, Volvo strengthens its presence in the electric vehicle market while reinforcing its global vision of an all-electric future.

bibliotherapy for mental wellness
Chandigarh

Bibliotherapy Can Help Prevent Mental Stress, Says Dr Rajinder Singh

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On World Mental Health Day, experts highlight natural techniques, reading therapy, and community welfare for better mental well-being. Chandigarh: On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, renowned psychiatrist and social worker Dr (Col.) Rajinder Singh emphasized the role of natural techniques and bibliotherapy in promoting mental health and preventing stress-related disorders. Addressing the gathering, Dr Singh explained that mental health directly influences how individuals think, feel, and act in daily life. He said, “Poor mental health not only disturbs one’s thinking but also affects mood and behaviour.” He added that while psychological, biological, and social factors may increase vulnerability, simple relaxation practices can significantly enhance resilience. Dr Singh recommended mindful meditation, yoga, physical exercise, box breathing, and listening to music as effective ways to manage stress. He noted that stress can manifest physically through increased heart rate, palpitations, muscle tension, and digestive issues. During the event, Dr Singh’s new book, “Rewiring The Brain For Wellness,” was released. The book focuses on healthy habits and lifestyle changes that improve emotional and psychological well-being. He further discussed bibliotherapy—the use of books as a therapeutic tool—saying, “There is strong medical evidence that reading can help people manage emotional problems without expert intervention.” By reading biographies or stories of others who have faced similar challenges, he said, individuals can prevent their issues from escalating. Dr B.N.S. Walia, former Director of PGIMER Chandigarh, attended as the chief guest and praised The Kalgidhar Trust for its social and humanitarian initiatives. He highlighted the growing impact of climate change on mental health and commended the Trust’s work in flood relief and rehabilitation across Punjab. Dr Davinder Singh, President of The Kalgidhar Trust, and Dr Neelam Kaur, Adviser (Health & Education), expressed gratitude to the attendees and shared the organization’s global recognition for value-based education, healthcare, and de-addiction programs. Experts including Dr H.K. Bedi and Dr Ranjit Powar also shared insights on overcoming psychological challenges. The event concluded with the launch of “Chardikala” Wellness Studio and a helpline (9805098716) for mental health and flood relief assistance.

Circle Kabaddi National Championship Chandigarh
Chandigarh

32nd Senior Circle Kabaddi Nationals from October 11 in Chandigarh

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Punjab University to host men’s and women’s championship organized by Amateur Circle Kabaddi Federation of India. Chandigarh, October 10:The 32nd Senior National Circle Kabaddi Championship for men and women will take place from October 11 to 13, 2025, at Punjab University, Chandigarh. The event is organized by the Amateur Circle Kabaddi Federation of India (ACKFI), affiliated with the World Kabaddi Federation and the Asian Circle Kabaddi Federation. Former Chandigarh Mayor and ACKFI President Devesh Moudgil, along with General Secretary J.P. Sharma (serving since 1978), announced the details during a press conference at the Chandigarh Press Club. They informed that all matches will be played on the Punjab University Football Ground under a knockout format. The federation will provide free accommodation and meals to all players. Moreover, attractive cash prizes will be awarded to the winners and runners-up. For the first time, the championship will feature cash awards — ₹61,000 for the men’s champions and ₹31,000 for the men’s runners-up, while the women’s winners will receive ₹41,000 and the runners-up ₹31,000. Participation certificates will be given to all athletes. Teams from Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Chandigarh, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Bihar, Jharkhand, Vidarbha, Madhya Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Assam have confirmed their participation. Moudgil and Sharma also announced that the event may help in selecting players for upcoming international tournaments. In addition, a technical officials’ training camp will be organized soon. They emphasized that the Amateur Circle Kabaddi Federation of India is devoted to the promotion and development of this indigenous sport across the country. The federation identifies talent at the grassroots level and represents India in national and international competitions. “Our mission is to channel youth energy through sports and connect them to the national mainstream,” said Moudgil. “We aim to instill discipline, confidence, and pride in India’s traditional sports culture.” He added that this championship is not just a competition — it’s a celebration of India’s sporting heritage, showcasing the spirit of teamwork, culture, and youth empowerment.

Breast cancer in Indian women
Chandigarh

Breast Cancer Becomes Most Common Cancer Among Indian Women

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Doctors at Park Hospital, Mohali, raise alarm on the rising breast cancer trend during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Chandigarh:Breast cancer has now become the most common cancer among women in India, according to experts from Park Hospital, Mohali. During a press conference held on Thursday to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a team of senior doctors highlighted the alarming rise in breast cancer cases across the country. The panel included Dr. (Brig.) Harinder Pal Singh, Director of Medical Oncology; Dr. Vijay Jagad, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology; Dr. Muveen Kumar Mittal, Consultant, Medical Oncology; Dr. Ashish Kamara, Consultant, Nuclear Medicine; and Dr. Jobanjeet Kaur, Consultant, Radiation Oncology. Park Hospitals, one of North India’s largest super-specialty networks, runs 19 hospitals with 3,500 beds, 800 ICU beds, 14 cath labs, 45 modular OTs, and over 1,000 doctors. Dr. Harinder Pal Singh explained that for more than four decades, cervical cancer was India’s leading cancer among women. However, breast cancer has now overtaken it as the most prevalent and deadly disease. Each year, around 2.1 million women are affected globally, and 190,000 new cases are reported in India alone. He noted that female hormones like estrogen and progesterone play a crucial role in the development of breast cancer. Dr. Muveen Kumar Mittal added that a few decades ago, most breast cancer patients were above 50. Today, nearly 50% of new cases occur between the ages of 25 and 60, showing a clear shift toward younger women. According to Dr. Vijay Jagad, breast cancer now accounts for 27% of all cancers in Indian women. He stressed that early detection through self-examination and mammography can save lives. Dr. Jobanjeet Kaur pointed out that over 60% of Indian women are diagnosed at stage three or four, as per WHO data. Late detection reduces survival chances and limits treatment options. Dr. Ashish Chadha, Group CEO (North), said Park Grecian Hospital, Mohali, is the first in Tricity to offer comprehensive cancer care. Symptoms to Watch For: Lumps in the breast, nipple discharge, thickened skin, redness or swelling, inverted nipple, or lumps in the armpit. Major Risk Factors: Family history, age, obesity, poor diet, lifestyle habits, radiation exposure, and prolonged estrogen exposure.

Adopting Swadeshi
Panchkula, Tri-City Update

Adopting Swadeshi Is Key to an Atmanirbhar Bharat: Amitabh Roongta

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Over 400 people joined a “Swadeshi Awareness March” in Panchkula, emphasizing self-reliance and national pride. Panchkula: To promote self-reliance and national unity, the Purushottam Das Roongta Charitable Trust, Government College for Women, Sector 14, and Muktinath Ved Vidyashram (Sanskrit Gurukul) jointly organized a grand ‘Swadeshi Awareness Campaign’ in Panchkula. The event featured a motivational walkathon that saw enthusiastic participation from students and local citizens. The march was flagged off by Amitabh Roongta, a renowned social worker and founder of the Trust, along with Anupama Roongta, Babu Mahendra (Dharm Jagran State Head), Suresh Goyal, Surender Singla, Benu Rao, Rajeev, Acharya Swami Prasad Mishra, Dr. Pooja Chauhan, Prof. Ritu Yadav, Dr. Alka Sharma, and Shivani Kaushik. Throughout the journey, the atmosphere echoed with chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” as participants highlighted the importance of adopting Swadeshi products. Students spread awareness about national duty and the significance of self-reliance. Teachers, students, and community members took active part in the initiative. Addressing the gathering, Amitabh Roongta said that adopting Swadeshi is essential to realizing the dream of Atmanirbhar Bharat. He recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to citizens to prefer Indian-made products and reduce dependence on imports. “This campaign aims to remind people of their responsibility toward the nation,” Roongta said. “Through this march, students conveyed the message of self-reliance and encouraged everyone to support Indian goods.” The 4-kilometer walk began at the Government College for Women, Sector 14, and returned to the same venue. More than 400 people joined the campaign, which also aimed to ignite patriotic feelings and inspire youth to contribute to the nation’s progress. Roongta emphasized that the initiative is a meaningful step to strengthen Indian culture, Swadeshi ideology, and national service among the youth. The Purushottam Das Roongta Charitable Trust, which organized the event, is devoted to social service, education, cow protection, food aid, and welfare of the underprivileged. The Trust regularly conducts weekly food distribution programs, free medical camps, scholarship drives, and women empowerment projects. It continues to inspire communities through its commitment to self-reliance, cultural values, and social awareness.

100 Gems of My City scholarship Himachal
Himachal Update

Second Phase of ‘100 Gems of My City’ Exam Today

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Tests will be held in government colleges across Himachal; selected students will receive free or subsidized coaching for national-level exams. Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh Government, in collaboration with Crack Academy, will conduct the second phase of the ‘100 Gems of My City’ scholarship examination on October 9. The test will take place in all government and government-aided colleges across the state. Leading institutions such as Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, and Maharaja Agrasen University, Baddi, will also participate in this initiative. The program aims to identify and support talented students by offering them free or subsidized coaching for national-level competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, Defence, Judiciary, JEE, and NEET. Moreover, students will gain access to skill development programs and career counseling sessions. These initiatives will help them set clear goals and prepare for a brighter future. The first phase of the program was completed in May 2025, where more than 2,500 students from government and private schools took part. In the second phase, the scheme has now been extended to college-level students. Under this plan, 100 students from each assembly constituency will receive 100% free coaching. Out of these, 75 students were selected in the first phase, while the remaining 25 will be chosen based on the results of the October 9 exam. In addition, other eligible students will receive scholarships of 75% or 50%. Importantly, only students studying in government or government-aided colleges and belonging to families with an annual income below ₹12 lakh can participate in this round. Speaking about the initiative, Neeraj Kansal, CEO and Founder of Crack Academy, said, “The goal of the ‘100 Gems of My City’ scholarship program is to take the talent of Himachal’s youth to new heights. Our mission is to ensure that success depends on a student’s ability, not on their geography or financial background. We are proud to partner with the Himachal government in shaping the future of the state’s youth.” Through this collaborative effort, Himachal Pradesh is taking a strong step toward empowering its young minds and ensuring equal access to quality education and opportunity.

Khushwant Singh Litfest 2025 Kasauli
Chandigarh

“Words Have the Power to Illuminate the Future”: Rahul Singh

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Kasauli to host the 14th Khushwant Singh Litfest from October 10 to 12 under the theme “Voices of Tomorrow – Navigating the Future Through Words.” Chandigarh: The Khushwant Singh Litfest (KSLF) is ready to return for its 14th edition at the scenic Kasauli Club from October 10 to 12. The sessions will run daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering a rich mix of dialogue, debate, and cultural performances. At a press conference held at the Chandigarh Press Club, Festival Director Rahul Singh announced that this year’s theme is “Voices of Tomorrow – Navigating the Future Through Words.” He explained that the Litfest continues to explore literature’s evolving role in shaping modern thought and fostering nation-building through meaningful conversations. Rahul Singh said the festival aims to bring forward emerging voices and fresh ideas that respond to global and regional challenges, including the climate crisis and social change. “Once again, the Litfest will unite writers, thinkers, and changemakers who inspire, question, and redefine the future,” he noted. He added, “The Khushwant Singh Litfest reflects our enduring belief that words have the power to illuminate the future.” The festival continues to embody the spirit of Khushwant Singh, celebrating wit, courage, and compassion through words. Highlighting KSLF’s growing global presence, Rahul Singh shared that the festival recently hosted its 7th London edition and made its Oxford debut earlier this year, expanding its international literary footprint. Festival team member Aishwarya Kumar described KSLF as a purpose-driven literary celebration, connecting diverse cultures and echoing Khushwant Singh’s humanitarian values. This year’s lineup features an impressive range of speakers, including General M.M. Naravane, Amol Palekar, P. Chidambaram, Shobhaa De, Pooja Bedi, A.S. Dulat, Mani Shankar Aiyar, Paul Waters, Gillian Wright, Harinder Baweja, Sandeep Bhamer, and Sangeeta Waldron, among others. The sessions will explore green business, mental health, heritage, gender, philanthropy, and popular genres such as spy thrillers, memoirs, and self-improvement. Each morning will open with a classical music recital, while evenings will feature live performances by Rear Admiral Nirmala Kannan, Dhruv Kent, Radhika Sood Nayak, Juhi Babbar, Syed Arman Ali, and Rekha Raj. Notably, KSLF plants a tree in honor of every speaker, with over 2,000 trees planted so far, symbolizing the festival’s lasting commitment to both art and the environment.

AICDA GST on used cars
Chandigarh

AICDA Demands GST Cut on Used Cars from 18% to 5%

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At its 25th Annual General Meeting, AICDA President J.S. Neyol urged the government to reduce GST and address long-ignored dealer concerns. Chandigarh: The 25th Annual General Meeting of the All India Car Dealers Association (AICDA) was held today in Chandigarh. Addressing the gathering, J.S. Neyol, National President of AICDA, called for an urgent reduction in GST on the purchase and sale of used cars from 18% to 5%. He said this move would provide major relief to thousands of car dealers and millions of workers dependent on the sector. Neyol highlighted that India’s car market is worth nearly INR 4 lakh crore annually and supports countless families across the country. However, despite its size and contribution, the sector continues to face complete neglect from policymakers. He emphasized that car dealers have been bearing the burden of high taxation, which has slowed down business growth and impacted employment. Moreover, Neyol pointed out that no reform has been introduced in GST rates for the used car segment since its inception. “Maintaining 18% GST on used car transactions is unfair,” he said, urging the government to bring it down to 5% to ensure fair trade practices and ease of doing business. In addition, he demanded that the rule allowing authorities to seal accounts in third-party payment cases should be abolished, as it disrupts legitimate business operations. He also appealed to car dealers across India to obtain their GST numbers at the earliest, ensuring smoother compliance and better policy engagement. Speaking about Chandigarh’s local dealers, Neyol expressed full support for their demand for a permanent trading location, promising to raise the issue at higher platforms. At the event, AICDA’s local President Gyaneshwar Jain (Shanky) welcomed participants from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Chandigarh. He echoed the call for GST registration and cooperation among members to strengthen the industry voice. Senior office bearers, including Harvinder Singh, Karanbir Singh (Tikka), Tajinder Singh, Harinder Singh, Gurjeet Singh, Sunny Singh, Ravi Malhotra, and Kuldeep Singh, were also present. Their collective participation reflected the unity of car dealers in demanding fair reforms and recognition for their vital role in the nation’s automobile ecosystem.

Chandigarh Police QRT bikes
Chandigarh

Honda India Foundation Donates 50 QRT Bikes to Chandigarh Police

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The initiative under ‘Sadak Sahayak: Surakshit Marg, Surakshit Jiwan’ will boost road safety, community support, and emergency response in Chandigarh. Chandigarh: Honda India Foundation (HIF), the CSR arm of Honda group companies in India, has handed over 50 customized Quick Response Team (QRT) vehicles to the Chandigarh Police under the ‘Sadak Sahayak: Surakshit Marg, Surakshit Jiwan’ project. The initiative supports road safety, community welfare, and faster emergency response across the region. The move aligns with Honda’s global vision of a collision-free society by 2050. Through this initiative, HIF continues to promote safer mobility and strengthen local safety systems. Each QRT vehicle is a specially equipped Honda CB350, modified to meet the needs of quick and efficient police response. Moreover, these vehicles are fitted with revolving flashers, blinkers, sirens, public announcement systems, and side storage boxes. Two Honda safety helmets are also included with each unit. The enhancements are designed to help police teams reach incident sites quickly, especially in high-traffic or sensitive areas. The handover ceremony took place in the presence of Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Sh. H. Rajesh Prasad, IAS, Chief Secretary, Dr. Sagar Preet Hooda, IPS, Director General of Police, and senior Honda officials including Sh. Rajeev Taneja and Sh. Prabhu Nagaraj. In addition, HIF aims to distribute 300 QRT vehicles nationwide by the end of this year across Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. Earlier, 50 vehicles were already handed over to the Gujarat Police to strengthen similar road safety initiatives. The collaboration between HIF and law enforcement showcases a public-private partnership committed to improving safety infrastructure. It also reflects Honda India Foundation’s dedication to community development and sustainable mobility. Therefore, this project is not just about providing vehicles; it is about saving lives, reducing injuries, and ensuring safer journeys for citizens. With the support of such collaborations, Chandigarh moves closer to becoming a model city for road safety and responsible driving.

Tele-MANAS mental health access
Chandigarh

PGIMER Highlights Role of Tele-MANAS in Mental Health Access During Crises

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On World Mental Health Day, experts stress expanding mental health services through tele-psychiatry during catastrophes and emergencies. Chandigarh,To mark World Mental Health Day 2025, the Department of Psychiatry at PGIMER, Chandigarh, organized a press conference on the theme “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.” The event aimed to raise awareness about the growing need for accessible mental health care during crises. The session was led by Prof. Subho Chakrabarti, Principal Investigator of the Regional Coordinating Center for Tele-MANAS, along with Dr. Rahul Chakravarty, Dr. Raj Laxmi, Mr. Abhishek Verma, and Ms. Sonu Aggarwal. The team emphasized that mental health care must remain available even during disasters and emergencies. Prof. Chakrabarti highlighted the importance of scaling mental health access and shared PGIMER’s initiatives such as Tele-MANAS and Tele-Psychiatry Services. He pointed out that a significant number of individuals affected by catastrophes suffer from serious mental health conditions, which makes access to services essential. The experts explained how tele-psychiatry has transformed mental health delivery, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. PGIMER now provides specialized therapies remotely, including Individual Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (iCST) for dementia and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for obsessive-compulsive disorder. They underscored that Tele-MANAS, launched under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), bridges the service gap by offering Psychological First Aid (PFA) remotely when physical access is disrupted. The service operates through the toll-free helpline 14416, using a structured model for crisis intervention and suicide prevention, called “Manasvita.” Counsellors receive Gatekeeper’s Training to assess risk and provide immediate care. Tier-1 counsellors can escalate cases to Tier-2 specialists such as psychiatrists or clinical psychologists and refer patients to nearby District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) centers for follow-up support. Dr. Rahul Chakravarty spoke about suicide prevention through Tele-MANAS, stating that suicide affects all social groups and requires collective societal responsibility. In his closing remarks, Prof. Chakrabarti noted that tele-psychiatry has reduced waiting times, improved patient engagement, and enhanced treatment compliance. By removing travel barriers, PGIMER’s tele-health initiatives have become a dependable bridge between patients and mental health professionals.