Friday, 17 April 2026

44 यूनिट रक्तदान के साथ मनाई गई डॉ. भीमराव अंबेडकर की 135वीं जयंती

By 121 News
Chandigarh, Apr.14, 2026:- भारत रत्न, संविधान के शिल्पकार डाक्टर भीमराव अम्बेडकर जी की 135वीं जन्म-जयंती के पावन अवसर पर सामाजिक संगठन महापद्मनंद वेलफेयर ऑर्गनाइजेशन (एमडब्ल्यूओ), चंडीगढ़ इकाई एवं मिनी मार्केट एसोसिएशन, सेक्टर 9डी, चंडीगढ़ के संयुक्त तत्वावधान में एक गरिमामय कार्यक्रम का आयोजन किया गया। कार्यक्रम में स्वैच्छिक रक्तदान शिविर, विचार गोष्ठी एवं सामूहिक लंगर का सफल आयोजन सेक्टर 9डी स्थित मिनी मार्केट, पोस्ट ऑफिस के समीप संपन्न हुआ।
     कार्यक्रम का शुभारंभ मुख्य अतिथि सरदार केशर सिंह, देवेश मोदगिल, पार्षद महेशिंदर सिंह सिद्धू, रणवीर सिंह पवार एवं राम कुमार सेन द्वारा बाबा साहेब के चित्र पर माल्यार्पण एवं पुष्प अर्पित कर किया गया। इसके उपरांत मुख्य अतिथि सरदार केशर सिंह द्वारा रक्तदान शिविर का विधिवत उद्घाटन किया गया।
       इस अवसर पर 44 लोगों ने स्वैच्छिक रक्तदान कर मानव सेवा का उत्कृष्ट उदाहरण प्रस्तुत करते हुए बाबासाहेब को सच्ची श्रद्धांजलि अर्पित की। कार्यक्रम में बड़ी संख्या में संगठन के सदस्य अपने परिवार सहित उपस्थित रहे। प्रतिभागियों ने न केवल रक्तदान किया, बल्कि विचार गोष्ठी में भाग लेकर बाबासाहेब के विचारों पर अपने प्रेरणादायक वक्तव्य भी प्रस्तुत किए तथा अंत में सामूहिक लंगर का प्रसाद ग्रहण किया |
 इस अवसर पर भारतीय जानता पार्टी के पदाधिकारीगण सोनू सरपंच, आदित्य राजभर, राकेश शर्मा, चाँदनी शर्मा, बबलू चौधरी, भूपिंदर शर्मा, वरिंदर सिंह, अजय, ऋषि, निखिल, पुनीत, शंकर, महताब खत्री, राजू प्यारे एवं विनोद उपस्थित रहे।
      मिनी मार्केट एसोसिएशन के पदाधिकारियों में अध्यक्ष राज कुमार शर्मा, उपाध्यक्ष विनोद कुमार, सचिव सुरेश कुमार उर्फ पप्पू, महासचिव सतेन्द्र कुमार जायसवाल एवं कोषाध्यक्ष राम लवट सहित अनेक गणमान्य व्यक्ति उपस्थित रहे।
      वहीं, एमडब्ल्यूओ चंडीगढ़ इकाई के पदाधिकारियों में अध्यक्ष राम बहादुर शर्मा, उपाध्यक्ष राज कुमार शर्मा, महासचिव विनोद कुमार, कोषाध्यक्ष बृजेश कुमार, कोऑर्डिनेटर अनुज कुमार, संगठन मंत्री विवेक कुमार, मीडिया प्रभारी राजन शर्मा तथा संगठन सदस्य प्रदीप कुमार, राकेश, राज किशोर, दीपक एवं बंटी प्रमुख रूप से उपस्थित रहे।
   कार्यक्रम ने सामाजिक समरसता, मानव सेवा एवं समानता के मूल्यों को सुदृढ़ करते हुए बाबासाहेब के आदर्शों को जन-जन तक पहुँचाने का सार्थक संदेश दिया।
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Allengers Gully Cricket Tournament 2026 Kicks Off in Chandigarh

By 121 News
Chandigarh,  Apr.17, 2026:-The fourth edition of the Allengers Gully Cricket Tournament 2026 formally inaugurated on Friday at the Sector 16 Cricket Stadium by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. The ceremony was also graced by H Rajesh Prasad, Chief Secretary, UT Administration, in the presence of Tournament Chairman Sanjay Tandon and DGP UT Police Dr Sagar Preet Hooda along with senior officials from the Chandigarh Administration, Chandigarh Police  and UT Cricket Association (UTCA).

The tournament is being jointly organized by UTCA and Chandigarh Police with the objective of engaging youth in sports and steering them away from drug abuse. Administering an anti-drug oath to players and attendees, CM Saini highlighted the importance of PM's initiatives like Khelo India and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan in promoting discipline and physical fitness among youth. He commended UTCA’s efforts, stating that such tournaments help build a strong foundation for the nation by encouraging healthy lifestyles.

In his welcome address, Sanjay Tandon emphasized that the tournament is more than just a sporting event, it is a social movement aimed at channelizing the energy of young individuals in a positive direction. He informed that 288 teams, including 256 boys’ teams and 32 girls’ teams, comprising nearly 4000 players aged 14 to 19 years will participate in matches across nine venues in the city over the next two weeks.

Tandon also announced two key additions to this year’s edition. The Indian Street Premier League will felicitate the winners with cash incentives and offer 25 outstanding players an opportunity to compete at the national level. Additionally, the Abhinav Bindra Foundation, founded by Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra, will support the tournament by recognizing and encouraging top performers during the closing ceremony.

DGP Dr Hooda appreciated UTCA’s initiative and reaffirmed Chandigarh Police’s commitment to strengthening the tournament in future editions. He noted that such collaborative efforts play a crucial role in youth engagement and community development.

Earlier, UTCA President SaraanshTandon read out a message from Union Sports Minister Dr  Mansukh Mandaviya who could not attend due to prior commitments. In his message, the Minister described the tournament as a “mass movement” that goes beyond cricket to inspire social change.

Speaking on the occasion, H Rajesh Prasad said that this tournament is a commendable initiative that blends sports with a strong social message. It not only nurtures young talent but also plays a vital role in guiding youth towards a disciplined and drug-free lifestyle.  

The event also saw dignitaries unveiling the tournament trophy and participating in a symbolic cricketing gesture to mark the commencement of the competition.

Those who graced the occasion include Mayor Saurabh Joshi, SSP Kanwardeep Kaur, IGP Pushpender Kumar, IPS Rajeev Ranjan, Hari Singh Khuarna (Secretary, UTCA), Alok Krishan (Treasurer, UTCA)  and others. 

The tournament will follow a knockout format, with each match consisting of 10 overs per side and played using tennis balls to ensure safety. Matches will be conducted across multiple venues to maximize accessibility. Registrations were carried out through police stations across the city on a first-come, first-served basis.

Supported by the Municipal Corporation, Social Welfare Department, Sports Department, and Education Department of Chandigarh Administration, along with partners like Tynor, NMDC, the tournament aims to identify and nurture grassroots cricketing talent. UTCA selectors will closely monitor performances, offering standout players pathways to represent Chandigarh at national-level BCCI tournaments.

The finals are scheduled for May 1, while the closing ceremony on May 2 will be graced by Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria.

Live scoring and updates will be available through the UTCA website and mobile application.

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Illusion Outlet at Velvet Clarks Exotica Zirakpur Announces Anglo-Indian Food Festival

By 121 News
Zirakpur, Apr.17, 2026:-Illusion Outlet at Velvet Clarks Exotica Zirakpur is delighted to announce the Anglo-Indian Food Festival, scheduled from 17th April to 27th April 2026, from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. This exclusive 11-day festival brings to life the rich and distinctive flavours of Anglo-Indian cuisine—an exceptional blend of British culinary traditions and Indian spices that evolved during the colonial era.

Set in the elegant ambience of one of Zirakpur’s finest hospitality destinations, the festival promises not just a meal, but a complete cultural and culinary experience, ideal for families, corporate guests, and food enthusiasts.

The festival menu has been thoughtfully curated to showcase iconic dishes that carry historical significance. Guests can savour classics such as Mulligatawny Soup, originally derived from the South Indian “pepper water,” later adapted into a hearty Anglo-Indian favourite. Popular appetisers like Railway Mutton Cutlet and Railway Veg Cutlet reflect the nostalgia of colonial railway journeys, where these dishes were once served to travellers.

The main course features signature preparations such as Non Veg Ball Curry with Yellow Rice, a unique fusion dish influenced by European-style meatballs and Indian spices, and the much-loved Railway Chicken Curry, known for its mildly spiced, flavourful gravy developed to suit British palates while retaining Indian essence. Other highlights include Chicken Stew, Vegetable Jalfrezi, and Veg Kolkata Biryani.

To complement the dining experience, a selection of specially crafted beverages will be available, including refreshing mocktails like Shimla Evening Spritz and The Anglo Herb Splash.

The experience concludes with classic desserts like Caramel Custard and Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce, reflecting the strong influence of British culinary traditions on Anglo-Indian sweets.

Adding to the experience, guests can enjoy warm hospitality, curated service, and a refined dining environment synonymous with Velvet Clarks Exotica Zirakpur, making it a perfect venue for special evenings and memorable gatherings.

Speaking on the occasion, Chef Yogesh said that Anglo-Indian cuisine is truly ‘history on a plate.’ Each dish tells a story of cultural exchange and adaptation. We have carefully curated this menu to retain authenticity while appealing to modern tastes.

Maninderjit Singh Sibal, General Manager, added that at Illusion Outlet, Velvet Clarks Exotica Zirakpur, we are committed to delivering exceptional dining experiences. This festival is a tribute to a unique culinary heritage that beautifully connects cultures and generations. We warmly invite our guests to indulge in this nostalgic and flavourful journey.

The Anglo-Indian Food Festival promises to be a delightful journey for food enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.

📍 Venue: Illusion
 Outlet, Velvet Clarks Exotica Zirakpur

 Dates: 17th April – 27th April 2026

 Timings: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Prices are exclusive of applicable taxes.

📞 For reservations: 8558885554
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मानव एकता दिवसः सेवा और आध्यात्मिक समरसता का पावन अवसर

By 121 News
Chandigarh, Apr.17, 2026:--जब मानव हृदय में प्रेम की मधुर धारा अविरल प्रवाहित होती है और आत्मा एकत्व के दिव्य स्पंदन से आलोकित होती है, तभी मानवता का वास्तविक और पावन स्वरूप प्रकट होता है। यह वही स्थिति है जहाँ समस्त भेदभाव स्वतः विलीन हो जाते हैं और करुणा, समरसता तथा सार्वभौमिक भाईचारे का भाव जीवन्त हो उठता है। इसी दिव्य आध्यात्मिक चेतना को साकार करने हेतु संत निरंकारी मिशन द्वारा बाबा गुरबचन सिंह जी की पावन स्मृति में *‘मानव एकता दिवस’* 24 अप्रैल 2026 को श्रद्धा, समर्पण और प्रेममय वातावरण में आयोजित किया जाएगा, जो संपूर्ण मानव जाति को एकत्व, सेवा और सद्भाव का अमूल्य संदेश प्रदान करेगा।

चंडीगढ़ के ज़ोनल इन्चार्ज ओ.पी. निरंकारी ने बताया कि निरंकारी मिशन द्वारा संत निरंकारी चैरिटेबल फाउंडेशन के मार्गदर्शन में संत निरंकारी सत्संग भवन सेक्टर 30 ए चंडीगढ़ में दिनांक 24-04-26 को प्रातः 8:00 बजे से दोपहर 2:00 बजे तक विशाल रक्तदान कैम्प लगाया जा रहा है जिसका उद्घाटन चंडीगढ़ के मेयर श्री सौरभ जोशी जी करेंगे ।

इस रक्तदान शिविर में पीजीआई चंडीगढ़ के ब्लड ट्रांसफ्यूजन विभाग तथा जनरल हॉस्पिटल सेक्टर -16 की टीमें सहयोग करेंगी ।

सतगुरु माता सुदीक्षा जी महाराज एवं निरंकारी राजपिता रमित जी के पावन सान्निध्य में दिल्ली के बुराड़ी स्थित सरोवर के सम्मुख ग्राउंड नं. 2 में एक भव्य एवं दिव्य सत्संग का आयोजन किया जाएगा, जहाँ श्रद्धालु भक्त प्रेम, भक्ति और आध्यात्मिकता के अद्वितीय संगम का अनुभव करेंगे। यह पावन अवसर केवल एक आयोजन नहीं, बल्कि आत्मिक जागृति का उत्सव होगा, जो प्रत्येक हृदय को ईश्वरीय एकत्व के अनुभव से जोड़ते हुए आंतरिक शांति और संतोष की अनुभूति कराएगा।

इसके साथ ही देश-विदेश की विभिन्न शाखाओं में भी श्रद्धालु भक्त एकत्रित होकर इस दिव्य सत्संग को गहन आत्मिक भाव से साकार करेंगे। इस पावन संगम के माध्यम से हर हृदय प्रेम, शांति और भाईचारे के प्रकाश से आलोकित होगा तथा मानवता की एकसूत्रता का संदेश विश्वभर में प्रसारित होगा।

यह पावन दिवस बाबा गुरबचन सिंह जी एवं चाचा प्रताप सिंह जी की दिव्य स्मृति को समर्पित है, जिनका सम्पूर्ण जीवन त्याग, समर्पण और निःस्वार्थ सेवा की अद्वितीय मिसाल रहा है। उन्होंने अपने आचरण और विचारों के माध्यम से मानवता को प्रेम, विनम्रता और परोपकार का सच्चा मार्ग दिखाया। उनके दिव्य आदर्श आज भी प्रत्येक हृदय में सेवा, भक्ति और एकत्व की ज्योति प्रज्वलित करते हैं, और मानव मात्र को यह प्रेरणा देते हैं कि सच्ची साधना केवल शब्दों में नहीं, बल्कि निस्वार्थ सेवा, करुणा और आपसी भाईचारे के भाव में निहित हैं।

दिल्ली के मुख्य आयोजन स्थल पर प्रातः 8 बजे से दोपहर 2 बजे तक रक्तदान शिविर गहन श्रद्धा, समर्पण और सेवा-भाव के साथ आयोजित किया जाएगा। इस पावन सेवा यज्ञ में विभिन्न अस्पतालों के अनुभवी चिकित्सक एवं इंडियन रेड क्रॉस सोसायटी की समर्पित टीम अपनी विशेषज्ञता और करुणा के साथ सेवा प्रदान करेगी, जिससे यह प्रयास मानवता के प्रति संवेदनशीलता का सजीव उदाहरण बनेगा।

संत निरंकारी मण्डल के सचिव आदरणीय जोगिन्दर सुखीजा के अनुसार, संत निरंकारी चैरिटेबल फाउंडेशन के मार्गदर्शन में आयोजित इन शिविरों में हजारों श्रद्धालु निःस्वार्थ भाव से रक्तदान कर मानव जीवन की रक्षा हेतु अपना अमूल्य योगदान अर्पित करेंगे। यह सेवा न केवल जरूरतमंदों के जीवन में नई आशा का संचार करती है, बल्कि दान करने वाले के हृदय में भी आत्मिक संतोष, शांति और कृतार्थता का दिव्य अनुभव उत्पन्न करती है।

उल्लेखनीय है कि संत निरंकारी मिशन रक्तदान के क्षेत्र में सदैव अग्रणी रहा है जहां 4 दशकों से रक्तदान का सफल आयोजन किया जा रहा है। मिशन का स्वयं का ब्लड बैंक मुंबई में निरंतर परोपकार और सेवा-भाव के साथ अपनी अमूल्य सेवाएं प्रदान कर रहा है। विगत् वर्षों में आयोजित हजारों रक्तदान शिविरों के माध्यम से अनगिनत जीवनों को नया संबल और जीवनदान प्राप्त हुआ है।

निःसंदेह, यह पुण्य प्रयास सतगुरु माता सुदीक्षा जी महाराज की दिव्य शिक्षाओं का सजीव एवं प्रेरणादायी प्रतिबिंब है, जो मानव हृदय में प्रेम, एकत्व और सह-अस्तित्व की पावन ज्योति प्रज्वलित करता है। उनकी करुणामयी प्रेरणा प्रत्येक व्यक्ति को यह अनुभूति कराती है कि सच्चा जीवन वही है, जो सेवा, विनम्रता और आपसी सद्भाव के मार्ग पर अग्रसर हो।
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मानव एकता दिवसः सेवा और आध्यात्मिक समरसता का पावन अवसर

By 121 News
Chandigarh, Apr.17, 2026:--जब मानव हृदय में प्रेम की मधुर धारा अविरल प्रवाहित होती है और आत्मा एकत्व के दिव्य स्पंदन से आलोकित होती है, तभी मानवता का वास्तविक और पावन स्वरूप प्रकट होता है। यह वही स्थिति है जहाँ समस्त भेदभाव स्वतः विलीन हो जाते हैं और करुणा, समरसता तथा सार्वभौमिक भाईचारे का भाव जीवन्त हो उठता है। इसी दिव्य आध्यात्मिक चेतना को साकार करने हेतु संत निरंकारी मिशन द्वारा बाबा गुरबचन सिंह जी की पावन स्मृति में *‘मानव एकता दिवस’* 24 अप्रैल 2026 को श्रद्धा, समर्पण और प्रेममय वातावरण में आयोजित किया जाएगा, जो संपूर्ण मानव जाति को एकत्व, सेवा और सद्भाव का अमूल्य संदेश प्रदान करेगा।

चंडीगढ़ के ज़ोनल इन्चार्ज ओ.पी. निरंकारी ने बताया कि निरंकारी मिशन द्वारा संत निरंकारी चैरिटेबल फाउंडेशन के मार्गदर्शन में संत निरंकारी सत्संग भवन सेक्टर 30 ए चंडीगढ़ में दिनांक 24-04-26 को प्रातः 8:00 बजे से दोपहर 2:00 बजे तक विशाल रक्तदान कैम्प लगाया जा रहा है जिसका उद्घाटन चंडीगढ़ के मेयर श्री सौरभ जोशी जी करेंगे ।

इस रक्तदान शिविर में पीजीआई चंडीगढ़ के ब्लड ट्रांसफ्यूजन विभाग तथा जनरल हॉस्पिटल सेक्टर -16 की टीमें सहयोग करेंगी ।

सतगुरु माता सुदीक्षा जी महाराज एवं निरंकारी राजपिता रमित जी के पावन सान्निध्य में दिल्ली के बुराड़ी स्थित सरोवर के सम्मुख ग्राउंड नं. 2 में एक भव्य एवं दिव्य सत्संग का आयोजन किया जाएगा, जहाँ श्रद्धालु भक्त प्रेम, भक्ति और आध्यात्मिकता के अद्वितीय संगम का अनुभव करेंगे। यह पावन अवसर केवल एक आयोजन नहीं, बल्कि आत्मिक जागृति का उत्सव होगा, जो प्रत्येक हृदय को ईश्वरीय एकत्व के अनुभव से जोड़ते हुए आंतरिक शांति और संतोष की अनुभूति कराएगा।

इसके साथ ही देश-विदेश की विभिन्न शाखाओं में भी श्रद्धालु भक्त एकत्रित होकर इस दिव्य सत्संग को गहन आत्मिक भाव से साकार करेंगे। इस पावन संगम के माध्यम से हर हृदय प्रेम, शांति और भाईचारे के प्रकाश से आलोकित होगा तथा मानवता की एकसूत्रता का संदेश विश्वभर में प्रसारित होगा।

यह पावन दिवस बाबा गुरबचन सिंह जी एवं चाचा प्रताप सिंह जी की दिव्य स्मृति को समर्पित है, जिनका सम्पूर्ण जीवन त्याग, समर्पण और निःस्वार्थ सेवा की अद्वितीय मिसाल रहा है। उन्होंने अपने आचरण और विचारों के माध्यम से मानवता को प्रेम, विनम्रता और परोपकार का सच्चा मार्ग दिखाया। उनके दिव्य आदर्श आज भी प्रत्येक हृदय में सेवा, भक्ति और एकत्व की ज्योति प्रज्वलित करते हैं, और मानव मात्र को यह प्रेरणा देते हैं कि सच्ची साधना केवल शब्दों में नहीं, बल्कि निस्वार्थ सेवा, करुणा और आपसी भाईचारे के भाव में निहित हैं।

दिल्ली के मुख्य आयोजन स्थल पर प्रातः 8 बजे से दोपहर 2 बजे तक रक्तदान शिविर गहन श्रद्धा, समर्पण और सेवा-भाव के साथ आयोजित किया जाएगा। इस पावन सेवा यज्ञ में विभिन्न अस्पतालों के अनुभवी चिकित्सक एवं इंडियन रेड क्रॉस सोसायटी की समर्पित टीम अपनी विशेषज्ञता और करुणा के साथ सेवा प्रदान करेगी, जिससे यह प्रयास मानवता के प्रति संवेदनशीलता का सजीव उदाहरण बनेगा।

संत निरंकारी मण्डल के सचिव आदरणीय जोगिन्दर सुखीजा के अनुसार, संत निरंकारी चैरिटेबल फाउंडेशन के मार्गदर्शन में आयोजित इन शिविरों में हजारों श्रद्धालु निःस्वार्थ भाव से रक्तदान कर मानव जीवन की रक्षा हेतु अपना अमूल्य योगदान अर्पित करेंगे। यह सेवा न केवल जरूरतमंदों के जीवन में नई आशा का संचार करती है, बल्कि दान करने वाले के हृदय में भी आत्मिक संतोष, शांति और कृतार्थता का दिव्य अनुभव उत्पन्न करती है।

उल्लेखनीय है कि संत निरंकारी मिशन रक्तदान के क्षेत्र में सदैव अग्रणी रहा है जहां 4 दशकों से रक्तदान का सफल आयोजन किया जा रहा है। मिशन का स्वयं का ब्लड बैंक मुंबई में निरंतर परोपकार और सेवा-भाव के साथ अपनी अमूल्य सेवाएं प्रदान कर रहा है। विगत् वर्षों में आयोजित हजारों रक्तदान शिविरों के माध्यम से अनगिनत जीवनों को नया संबल और जीवनदान प्राप्त हुआ है।

निःसंदेह, यह पुण्य प्रयास सतगुरु माता सुदीक्षा जी महाराज की दिव्य शिक्षाओं का सजीव एवं प्रेरणादायी प्रतिबिंब है, जो मानव हृदय में प्रेम, एकत्व और सह-अस्तित्व की पावन ज्योति प्रज्वलित करता है। उनकी करुणामयी प्रेरणा प्रत्येक व्यक्ति को यह अनुभूति कराती है कि सच्चा जीवन वही है, जो सेवा, विनम्रता और आपसी सद्भाव के मार्ग पर अग्रसर हो।
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Punjab Advances District-led HIV Response as NACO’s Nationwide Strategy Gains Momentum

By 121 News
Zirakpur, Apr.16, 2026:- Bringing the focus firmly to districts where impact is most critical, the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, convened a high-level workshop in Mohali's Zirakpur today, bringing Punjab’s priority districts together to drive focused, data-led action towards achieving the 95-95-99 targets.

Dr. Rakesh Gupta, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt of India & Director General, NACO, chaired the meeting. Kumar Rahul, Principal Secretary, Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Punjab, also participated along with senior State and district-level programme functionaries.

In his address, Dr. Rakesh Gupta highlighted that in states like Punjab, where injecting drug use contributes significantly to HIV transmission, our response must be urgent and accelerated. District-level strategies, supported by data and convergence with other health services, are essential to reversing this trend.

He further added that empowering districts with greater ownership and accountability would be critical in translating national goals into measurable local impact.

The workshop is part of a series of structured engagements being undertaken by NACO across States to strengthen HIV programme delivery in high-burden districts through a decentralised and data-driven approach. Punjab, with an HIV prevalence of 0.42% and an estimated 1,10,715 people living with HIV (PLHIV), remains a priority State under this focused strategy.

A total of 21 priority districts, namely Tarn Taran, Amritsar, Moga, Pathankot, Mansa, Fatehgarh Sahib, Ludhiana, Hoshiarpur, S.A.S. Nagar, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Gurdaspur, Barnala, Faridkot, Sangrur, Patiala, Shahid Bhagat Singh Nagar, Firozpur, Bathinda, Rupnagar, and Sri Muktsar Sahib have been identified for intensified programme action. District teams presented their progress, highlighted operational challenges and developed targeted strategies to strengthen HIV prevention, testing and treatment services.

Highlighting the State’s commitment, Kumar Rahul stated that punjab is committed to strengthening its HIV response through targeted and evidence-based interventions. This workshop has enabled districts to align their strategies with local realities and reinforce accountability for improved service delivery and health outcomes.

The workshop witnessed active participation from senior district officials, including Deputy Commissioners, Additional Deputy Commissioners, Civil Surgeons and District AIDS Control Officers, reinforcing a coordinated and outcome-oriented approach to HIV programme implementation. The day long workshop fostered cross-learning and the districts identified concrete action plans for target oriented results. 

The successful completion of the Mohali workshop marks another important step in India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen district-led action, ensuring that progress towards the 95-95-99 targets is accelerated across priority geographies. By fostering collaboration across national, state and district levels, NACO continues to drive a unified and impactful response towards ending AIDS by 2030.
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Joint Action Committee of Teachers to hold Protest Demonstration on 23 April 2026 

By 121 News
Chandigarh, Apr.17, 2026:-The Joint Action Committee of Teachers, UT Chandigarh, a registered teachers’ union affiliated with Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, has announced a peaceful protest demonstration on 23 April 2026 at 03:00 PM onwards at UT Secretariat Parking, Sector-9, Chandigarh, against the continued delay in resolving the long-pending demands of teachers by the Chandigarh Administration, particularly due to repeated objections from the office of the Secretary Finance.
The union stated that despite several representations and repeated assurances from the authorities, important service-related issues of teachers remain unresolved, causing serious financial hardship, professional uncertainty, and resentment among the teaching community.
The major demands raised by the teachers include:
Immediate joining of vocational teachers under Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan,
Release of pending Dearness Allowance at 58% for guest and contract teachers from July 2025,
Grant of half-pay leave due to UT cadre teachers as on 01.04.2022,Regularization of guest and contract, SSA teachers as per court directions,Promotion of all teacher cadres on priority,
Enhancement of casual leave for regular teachers,
Issuance of CGHS cards to Chandigarh teachers and employees as per Central Government norms, renewal of contract and release pending salary SSA teachers/Employees 

The Teacher Union alleged that genuine files concerning teachers are being unnecessarily delayed by unwarranted objections, adversely affecting the functioning of schools and the morale of employees.

The teachers’ union clarified that the protest will be completely peaceful and democratic and urged the Chandigarh Administration to resolve the pending issues immediately to avoid further escalation.

Thursday, 16 April 2026

Roblox Introduces New Age-Based Accounts and Expanded Parental Controls for Users Under 16

By 121 News
Chandigarh, April 16, 2026:- Roblox Corporation (NYSE: RBLX) today announced two new age-based accounts for younger users on Roblox: Roblox Kids for users ages 5 to 8 and Roblox Select for users ages 9 to 15*. When they roll out in early June, these accounts will more closely align content access, communication settings, and parental controls with a user’s age. They’re also establishing an ongoing selection process for games available to users under 16.

This is a continuation of the work Roblox began earlier this year, becoming the first online gaming platform to require facial age checks to access chat. Since then, over 50% of global and 65% of U.S. daily active users have completed an age check.

This update will bring age-checks, account-level defaults, content ratings, ongoing moderation, and expanded parental controls together into a unified framework for younger users. Based on Roblox’s selection criteria, the company believes age-checked users under 16 will have access to the vast majority of their favorite games at launch. Age-checked users 16 and older will not see any change to their Roblox experience.

The age-based account system will automatically assign users ages 5 to 8 (as determined through Roblox’s global age-check technology or by a verified parent) to a Roblox Kids account. These accounts will be matched to a dynamically updated catalog containing thousands of select games.

For Roblox Kids accounts:

     Access will be limited to games with a Minimal or Mild content maturity label that have passed their three-step selection process (detailed below).

     All communication is disabled by default.

     The design will include a distinct background color across the app experience to indicate account type.

Roblox Select accounts are for users ages 9 to 15, as determined through Roblox’s universal age-check system or by a verified parent. These accounts will be matched to a dynamically updated catalog containing thousands of select games.

For Roblox Select accounts:

     Access will be limited to games with content maturity labels up to and including

     Moderate that have passed their three-step selection process (detailed below).

      Default communications settings remain unchanged for ages 9-15.

     The design will include a distinct visual treatment to indicate account type.

Roblox’s global age-based account system will automatically progress users as they age.

     Users will automatically transition from Roblox Kids to Roblox Select accounts when they reach age 9.

     Users will automatically transition from Roblox Select to standard Roblox accounts when they reach age 16.

Users who haven’t yet completed an age-check will be limited to games rated Minimal or Mild, and all communication will be unavailable. After completing an age-check, users will automatically move into the appropriate age-based account.

As always, all content uploaded to Roblox goes through their existing moderation systems, including AI asset scanning, ongoing user report review, and multimodal moderation that evaluates scenes in real time for potential policy violations.

For content made available to users under 16, they will apply an additional continuous process that dynamically selects games. This process will include developer verification, extended content evaluation and rating, and additional limits on content more suited to older audiences.

Content will be automatically included in Roblox Kids and Roblox Select accounts once games are evaluated using additional criteria that include:

 

  1. Developer Verification: Creators must complete ID verification, enable two-step verification, and maintain an active Roblox Plus subscription.
  2. Real-Time Evaluation: Roblox will analyze how users age 16 and older interact with new games and monitor user reports to assess suitability for younger users.
  3. Content Maturity Rating and Default Exclusions: Roblox will assign an appropriate content maturity label (Minimal, Mild, or Moderate) for each game. By default, Roblox Kids and Roblox Select accounts will not include games that feature sensitive issues, social hangouts, or free-form drawing games.

Later this year, Roblox will start transitioning to the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC) framework, the globally recognized standard method for assigning content ratings for digital games and apps. These clear, region-specific ratings, such as ESRB in the U.S. and PEGI in much of Europe and the U.K., reflect local cultural norms and will help families identify age-appropriate content.

Roblox is also extending their parental controls, which allow parents to manage content ratings, communications settings, and screen-time and spending limits. These tools also transparently show parents which games their child is spending their time in and who their friends are. Under this update, parents will gain one new control and retain access to certain controls until a child turns 16.

     Extending Granular Game Blocking: Parents can block specific individual games through age 15.

     Extending Chat Management: Parents can manage direct chat settings through age 15.

     New Granular Game Approval: Parents can now approve access to specific games that are not otherwise available under the child’s default account type.

This structure is designed to give parents more precise control over the games and friends their child interacts with. Together, these updates are part of the company’s ongoing work to build age-appropriate experiences for all users, apply safety-by-default protections for younger users, and give parents more visibility and control over how their children use Roblox.

Larry Magid, ConnectSafely CEO, complimented Roblox’s updates by sharing that by combining age assurance, stronger creator accountability, and parental controls, Roblox is helping set a higher standard for how platforms can better protect younger users while preserving positive online experiences.

Matt Kaufman, Chief Safety Officer at Roblox said that with launch of Roblox Kids and Roblox Select, we are fundamentally shifting how games are discovered on our platform. Safety isn't a static feature – it’s a journey that evolves as a child  grows. He added that while no system is perfect, these age-adaptive accounts are designed to help remove the guesswork for parents and help align users' experiences with their age.

As part of Roblox’s work to become the world’s healthiest platform for users of all ages, they continually invest in safety by design and empower creativity through technology innovation.

The products are thoughtfully designed to cultivate creation, connection, and collaborative play, rather than passive consumption.

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Shemrock Sr. Sec. School Mohali Achieves 100% Success in CBSE Class X Results

Brookfield International School Records Outstanding CBSE Class 10th Results

By 121 News

Mohali, April 16, 2026:-Brookfield International School, Siswan Road, has once again proved its mettle with stellar performance in the recently announced CBSE Class 10th results for the 2025-26 session. The students have brought laurels to the institution through their hard work and academic excellence.

Leading the results, Gopika secured the top position with 97% marks, followed by Karanveer Singh (95.6%), Ananya (95.2%), Ekamjit Kaur (95%), Tanvi Goswami (94.8%), and Ojas Sharma (94.4%). These impressive scores reflect the students' consistent dedication and the robust academic support provided by the school.

Subject-wise achievements were equally commendable. Karanveer Singh scored 99 in Mathematics, while Gopika secured 98 marks in both Social Science and Science. In English, Harleen Kaur and Triptjot Kaur scored 97 marks each. Ananya topped Punjabi with 98 marks. In Hindi, Tanvi Goswami and Devanshi Sharma both secured 92 marks. Demonstrating proficiency in emerging subjects, Gopika and Ananya scored 97 marks each in Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The School Management, Honorable Patron Mrs. Neelam Singla, and President Manav Singla extended their heartfelt congratulations to the students for their exceptional achievements. They stated that this success is a symbol of the students' discipline and commitment to excellence. They further added that Brookfield International School wishes a bright future for all its students.

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शिवालिक पब्लिक स्कूल दसवीं कक्षा की छात्रा सराह अलिया नाहर ने 94.8% अंक प्राप्त कर स्कूल और परिवार का नाम किया रोशन 

By 121 News
Chandigarh, Apr.16, 2026:--शैक्षणिक उत्कृष्टता की अपनी परंपरा को कायम रखते हुए मोहाली स्थित शिवालिक पब्लिक स्कूल दसवीं कक्षा की छात्रा सराह अलिया नाहर ने शानदार परिणाम से अपने स्कूल और परिवार का नाम रोशन किया है। जिसने 94.8% स्कोर प्राप्त किए हैं। उनकी यह उपलब्धि न केवल उनकी कड़ी मेहनत और समर्पण को दर्शाती है बल्कि स्कूल द्वारा प्रदान किए गए मजबूत शैक्षणिक माहौल और मार्गदर्शन को भी प्रतिबीबित करती है।
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CCA Punjab Circle Office Organizes Life Certificate Camp

By 121 News
Ludhiana, April 16, 2026:-The Office of Controller of Communication Accounts (CCA), Punjab Circle, successfully organised a Life Certificate (LC) Camp at BSNL GMTD Office, Bharat Nagar Chowk, Ludhiana to facilitate pensioners and address their pension-related concerns. Around 60 pensioners participated in the camp.

The camp was organised with the objective of facilitating submission of Life Certificates and providing prompt resolution of pension-related issues faced by pensioners, senior citizens and retired employees. During the camp, officials provided on-the-spot assistance to pensioners and extended guidance on pension-related matters, documentation requirements, and pension procedures.

Awareness was also created about digital services such as Jeevan Pramaan, online pension services and other citizen-centric initiatives under Digital India, enabling pensioners to access services from the comfort of their homes. Information regarding various government schemes and available facilities was also shared with the participants.

Further, the pensioners were sensitised about cyber fraud and digital safety, including precautions against fraudulent calls/messages, phishing attempts, and the importance of safeguarding personal and banking information. 

The pensioner associations praised the work and leadership of Vijendra N. Tandon, CCA Punjab as they always received prompt solution of their problems. The participating pensioners also appreciated the initiative and stated that such camps reduce the need for repeated visits to offices and make services more accessible, transparent and convenient.

The team of CCA Punjab remains committed to organising similar outreach camps in different districts in future to ensure timely, efficient and secure services for pensioners.
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