International Day for Persons with Disabilities Celebrated at Panjab University

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Koral ‘Purnoor’, Democratic Front, Chandigarh  –  04 December:

Panjab University proudly observed the International Day for Persons with Disabilities to raise awareness and promote inclusivity for people with diverse abilities. The interactive session, organized by the Equal Opportunity Cell for Persons with Disabilities in collaboration with University Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, aimed to celebrate the achievements and contributions of individuals with disabilities while fostering a more inclusive and accessible environment for PwDs.

This year’s theme, “United in action to rescue and achieve the SDGs for, with and by persons with disabilities” underscores the importance of ensuring that the needs and rights of persons with disabilities.

The event commenced with an inaugural session featuring distinguished speakers, Mr. Raj Kumar Makkad, State Commissioner for PwDs, Haryana, Dr. Y. P Verma, Registrar, Panjab University, Mr. Ram Dayal, Inspector Chandigarh Police, Dr. Anil Kumar, Chairperson UIPS PU including Dr. Ramesh Kataria and Dr. Neelima Dhingra, Coordinator & Co-Coordinator of EOC-PwDs, PU and others. The speakers highlighted the significance of creating an inclusive society that values diversity and promotes equal opportunities for PwDs.

Throughout the session, a series of words were shared by the guests, including panel discussions, all designed to promote a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and to explore avenues for creating a more inclusive environment.

In addition to this, the Registrar, Panjab University took this occasion to announce several initiatives geared towards enhancing accessibility on the campus. These include Accessibility Audit of University campus etc.

The International Day for Persons with Disabilities at Panjab University served as a reminder of the importance of embracing diversity and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the academic and social life of the university.

ICAIML 2023 concludes with Insightful Sessions and Distinguished Guests

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The International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (ICAIML 2023) concludes with Insightful Sessions and Distinguished Guests

Koral ‘Purnoor’, Democratic Front, Chandigarh  –  30  November:

The second day of the two-day International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (ICAIML 2023) witnessed a convergence of leading experts and innovators in the field.

The audience was captivated by a series of enlightening keynote addresses from esteemed experts. Among them, Prof G S Lehal, Senior Consultant at IIIT Hyderabad and Former Professor at Punjabi University Patiala, delivered a thought-provoking talk on “Recent Advances in Language Technology.” His insights shed light on the ever-evolving landscape of language technology and its implications.

Mr. Manish Tandon from Microsoft, USA, engaged the audience with his session on “Introduction to Private AI,” providing a comprehensive overview of the emerging trends in the realm of private artificial intelligence.

Multiple parallel sessions on Paper Presentations were conducted, chaired by esteemed faculty members of the Department of Computer Science and Applications (DCSA), Panjab University. Topics spanned a wide array of subjects, including the rise of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, Energy-Optimized Adaptive Routing for Mobile Ad hoc Networks, Automated Defect Detection and Quality Control in Manufacturing Using Computer Vision and Deep Learning, Current Trends and Future Possibilities for AI in Mobile App Development, Sentimental analysis and AI in Education.

The conference concluded with a dignified valedictory function. The coordinators of the conference Prof. Indu Chhabra and Dr. Rohini Sharma, chairperson of the department presented the report of the conference. The chief guest, Prof. Y. P. Verma, Registrar, Panjab University appreciated the conference and shared his insights on the significance of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in the academic and professional realms.

ICAIML 2023 demonstrated a collaborative effort to explore and harness the potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning, setting the stage for continued advancements in these transformative fields. On this note of achievement, the conference coordinators extended heartfelt congratulations to the diligent and dedicated staff. Their meticulous planning and tireless efforts have undeniably played a pivotal role in realizing the success of the conference.

Pharmaceutical Sciences Convocation 2023

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Koral ‘Purnoor’, Democratic Front, Chandigarh  –  29 November:

University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS)organized the Pharmaceutical Sciences Convocationon Wednesday, 29th November 2023. The event began with the Panjab University anthem. Prof. Y P Verma, Registrar, Panjab University declared the convocation ceremony open in the presence of Chief Guest Dr. Pushvinder Jit Singh, MD, Tynor Orthotics, Mohali Punjab, Prof Harsh Nayyar, Director RDC Panjab University Chandigarh, Prof. Anil Kumar, Chairperson, UIPS, Prof. Poonam Piplani, Dean, Faculty Pharmaceutical Sciences and others.

Prof. Anil Kumar delivered the welcome address and welcomed the guests and advised students to inculcate three virtues of courage, kindness and value of time.

Professor Harsh Nayyar sensitized the young graduating students to keep thriving to aspire for achieving high echelons and strive hard to keep this hard-earned legacy of their alma mater alive as they are the future of the nation. He motivated them to march forward in the profession with utmost sincerity and brighter innovative ideas and motivated them to initiate new start-ups.”

The Convocation Address was given by the Chief Guest, Dr Pushvinder Jit Singh.He cheered the audience by sharing his personal, beautifully cherished moments spent at UIPS, sharing his roadmap of professional journey, he highlighted how each milestone taught him life skills. He congratulated and gave blessings to all the upcoming young graduates.

The Dean, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science Prof. Poonam Piplani then administered the “Pharmacist’s Oath for Code of Pharmaceutical Ethics” to the graduands. Around80 students including B.Pharm. and M.Pharm. graduates were conferred their degrees.

The valedictorians, Yuvraj and Hemant from M.Pharm and Miss Sanchita and Miss Rubal from B. Pharm. presented their salutations for the Institute describing how the UIPS nurtured and shaped them and their future both personally and professionally. The event concluded with the National Anthem.

Inaugural Session of ICAIML 2023 Unveils Insights into Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

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Koral ‘Purnoor’, Democratic Front, Chandigarh  –  28 November:

November 28, 2023, marked the beginning of a riveting two-day journey into the cutting-edge realms of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at Panjab University, Chandigarh. The International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (ICAIML 2023) unfolded with a symphony of enthusiasm and intellectual fervor. The event was inaugurated at 9:30 am by the esteemed Vice Chancellor, Prof. Renu Vig, who graced the occasion with the ceremonial lamp lighting alongside distinguished members of the Department of Computer Science and Applications.

In her inaugural address, Prof. Renu Vig highlighted the pivotal role played by Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in reshaping education and industries across the globe. She emphasized their significance as transformative technologies that have the potential to redefine the landscape of various sectors.

The morning session witnessed a series of engaging talks delivered by distinguished personalities in the fields of education and innovation. Among them, Prof. A G Ramakrishnan, an Adjunct Faculty at IIT Hyderabad, Principal Advisor of Bhashini AI Solutions, and Former Professor at IISc Bangalore, delved into the intricacies of brain pattern recognition versus End-to-End Deep Neural Networks, unraveling the distinctiveness of each.

Dr. Vinod Kumar Chauhan, representing the University of Oxford, UK, brought forth the innovative concept of “Hyper Networks: A New Approach for Training and Designing Neural Networks,” shedding light on cutting-edge methodologies in the realm of artificial intelligence.

Prof. Anand Nayyar, the Director of IoT and Intelligent Systems Lab at Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam, captivated the audience with his talk on “Internet of Medical Things: Revolutionizing Healthcare Technology,” showcasing the transformative potential of AI and ML in the healthcare sector.

The morning session of ICAIML 2023, not only provided a platform for insightful discussions but also set the tone for the comprehensive exploration of the latest advancements and trends in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. As the conference progresses, participants can anticipate further enriching sessions and a collaborative exchange of ideas that promise to shape the future of these dynamic technologies.

Vigilance Awareness Week to create awareness among all stake holders

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Koral ‘Purnoor’, Democratic Front, Chandigarh  –  08 November:

Panjab university in collaboration with NSS and Legal Aid Society, UILS along with Vigilance Cell, Panjab University – celebrated VIGILANCE WEEK, from 31st October to 3rdNovember 2023.

The week was started on 31st October on occasion of National Unity Day and National Vigilance Day. Integrity Pledge and Unity Pledge was taken which was supervised by Chief Vigilance Officer cum Dean, Faculty of law- Prof (Dr.) Rajinder Kaur.

The following week witnessed many events and competitions organised by the students of University Institute of Legal Studies. Poster making competition and Pamphlet Making competitions were held on 1st and 3rd November on the theme of ‘Corruption Eradication: A path to Transparency and Integrity’. Panjab University also witnessed the Nukkad Natak on 2nd November 2023 at Student Centre, Panjab University, Chandigarh. The theme of Nukkad Natak was ‘Say no to corruption- commit to the nation.’ The Guest of Honour of this event was the NSS coordinator of Panjab University, Chandigarh, Prof. (Dr.) Praveen Goyal.

More than 300 students of UILS participate in these competitions and events, showing their commitment to the idea of Vigilance week. Additionally, members of the NSS Programme will be actively involved in community outreach, identifying individuals and groups in need of legal aid

The event was concluded with the Prize Distribution ceremony, held on 8th November 2023. The winners of the competitions were provided with certificates. Winners of the Poster making competition: – 1st prize – Rhythm; 2nd  prize – Dishita; 3rd  prize – Simran. Consolation prizes were also given to Tanvi Bansal, Navneet Kaur, Chahat and Taranjot. The winners of the Pamplet making competition: – 1stprize – Tanvi Bansal; 2nd prize – Nabiha; 3rd prize –Rabia Sekhon. Consolation prizes were also given to Rhythm and Navneet Kaur. All the posters and pamphlets were displayed in a designated area within the department for everyone to see throughout Vigilance Week.

The event was graced by Chief Vigilance Officer cum Dean, Faculty of law- Prof (Dr.) Rajinder Kaur and Prof. (Dr.) Sarabjit Kaur, Director, UILS.

This initiative has garnered strong support from Teachers Co-ordinators Dr. Amita Verma, Dr. Karan Jawanda and Dr. Anupam Bahri under the able Patron-in-Chief – Prof. (Dr.) Renu Vig (Vice Chancellor, Panjab University). Their collaboration emphasizes the program’s commitment to ethical practices and integrity while offering legal aid to the community.

At the end of the week, Prof. (Dr.) Sarabjit Kaur and Prof (Dr.) Rajinder Kaur gave an invigorating speech to the students of UILS to be vary of corrupt practices and motivated them to spread more awareness about it within their society, as corruption is nothing but erosion to the economy.

The Legal Aid Society Programme at Panjab University sets a remarkable precedent in legal education, promoting the values of social justice, empathy, and community engagement. By empowering communities through legal assistance, this program not only serves the underprivileged but also nurtures a sense of responsibility among the legal fraternity.

As this program takes flight, Panjab University reiterates its commitment to making a meaningful impact on society, fostering a culture of legal awareness, and contributing to a just and equitable community.

ENACTUS TEAM OF P.U. BRINGS CHEERS TO THE SPECIALLY-ABLED THROUGH A DIYA PAINTING WORKSHOP

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Koral ‘Purnoor’, Democratic Front, Chandigarh  –  07 November:

ENACTUS TEAM OF P.U. BRINGS CHEERS TO THE SPECIALLY-ABLED THROUGH A DIYA PAINTING WORKSHOP

Enactus Panjab University, in collaboration with Samarth Jiyo, Sector 15, Chandigarh, a home dedicated to specially-abled individuals organized “Kalakriti: A Diya Painting Workshop”. This heart-warming event brought together an enthusiastic group of Enactus members, resource person and specially-abled children to create a memorable and inclusive experience, conveyed Prof. Seema Kapoor, Faculty advisor of Enactus.

Ms. Puneet Madan, an eminent artist and educationist with International recognition served as the guiding light for the day, sharing her expertise and inspiring the participants to unlock their artistic potential. This innovative initiative was hosted to foster creativity and spread joy among children with special abilities. Seeing the smiles on these children’s faces as they painted diyas with the help of Enaactus volunteers was incredibly rewarding, said Shubham Dhiman, President of Enactus team.

Amrit Singh, event head of Enactus team averred that Kalakriti is a testament to Enactus’s commitment to creating a positive impact in the society. He said that we believe in empowering every individual, regardless of their abilities and this workshop perfectly embodies that spirit.

Sidharth Mishra, marketing head highlighted the importance of inclusion and shared that “At Enactus, we believe that every individual has a unique talent to offer and Kalakriti is a testament to that belief. It’s inspiring to see the creativity and happiness that our little artists have brought to life”.

Puja, General Secretary of Samarth appreciated the efforts of Enactus team in bringing smiles on the faces of these children and celebrating Diwali with them since last many years. She conveyed that on seeing Enactus team, we can notice the welcome gestures from these specially abled with their eyes sparkling.

The event concluded with snacks and diya lighting as part of Diwali celebrations for the specially-abled children, bringing warmth and joy to everyone who participated, said Aakansha Kumari, marketing head of team.

Panjab University, delivers Distinguished Public Lecture on ‘The Saga of Laterite’

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Koral ‘Purnoor’, Democratic Front, Chandigarh  –  06 November:

 Prof. Gurmeet Kaur, Department of Geology, Panjab University, delivers Distinguished Public Lecture on ‘The Saga of Laterite’ at 89th Annual Meeting of Indian Academy of Sciences

Prof. Gurmeet Kaur, faculty from the Department of Geology at Panjab University, Chandigarh, and the Chair of the Subcommission on Heritage Stones (HSS) of International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS), was invited to deliver a prestigious public lecture at the 89th Annual Meeting of the Indian Academy of Sciences. The annual meeting took place at the BITS Pilani Goa Campus and was jointly co-hosted by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) and the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), Goa.Scholars who have delivered public lectures in earlier meetings of the Academy include T. Jacob John, ShyamBenegal, C. Rangarajan, NandanNilekani, AdoorGopalakrishnan, Sir Mark Tully, U.R. Ananthamurthy, Ramachandra Guha, Gopalkrishna Gandhi, K Srinath Reddy, ShabanaAzmi, SonalMansingh, Justice J. Chelameswar, Jairam Ramesh, C Jagadish, Thomas Pradeu, Arunabha Ghosh and P Sainath.   

Prof. Gurmeet Kaur, who works on heritage stones, presented a lecture on ‘The Saga of Laterite.’ Laterite, a unique geological formation predominantly found in tropical regions, holds significance due to its applications in renowned monuments all along the western Ghat region of India. The event, held on 4th November 2023, gathered prominent scientists, researchers, and academicians and teachers from across the nation. Prof. Kaur’s lecture elaborated on the geological aspects of laterite, its historical importance, and its contemporary relevance.

She and her team have brought international recognition to four Indian stones of eminence (Makrana Marble, Jaisalmer Limestone, Deccan Basalt, and Alwar Quartzite) with designation as IUGS-Heritage Stones:

About Prof. Gurmeet Kaur

Prof. Gurmeet Kaur works with the Department of Geology at Panjab University, Chandigarh. She serves as the Chair of the IUGS Subcommission on Heritage Stones and has made significant contributions to the understanding of stone built architectural heritage. She is also a co-leader of IGCP-UNESCO Project on identifying Heritage Stones from emerging nations.

About the Indian Academy of Sciences

The Indian Academy of Sciences is a prestigious scientific institution that promotes scientific research and knowledge exchange among scientists and researchers in India. The annual meeting is a platform for intellectuals to collaborate and share their findings in various scientific disciplines.

About BITS Pilani Goa Campus

BITS Pilani Goa Campus is one of the premier institutions for higher education in India, known for its contributions to science and technology. It hosts various academic and research activities, providing an ideal environment for scientific gatherings and discussions.

About NCPOR and NIO

The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) and the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) are leading research organizations in India, specializing in polar and ocean research. Their joint involvement in the annual meeting added depth and diversity to the scientific discussions.

Connecting the Dots: Startup Ideas into Business Plans

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Koral ‘Purnoor’, Democratic Front, Chandigarh  –  06 November:

The Centre for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship,in collaboration with the DST-Technology Enabling Centre, Panjab University, Chandigarh, held the Valedictory Function of the Skill Enhancement Course onMastering the Art of Curating a Business Plan on 5th November.The Course enabled the students who had registeredfor the ‘75 Startup Ideas for Students’, where scientists presented 75 technologies, to convert an emerging technology into a Business Plan. The initiative was lauded by the Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker, Mr. Somveer Singh Anand, the CEO and MD of the Innovation Mission Punjab. He specified three mantras for embarking on an entrepreneurial journey̶ staying focused, eliminating the noise and doubts that come with running a business, and working in the direction of the common good. He detailed how the government was committed to rejuvenating entrepreneurship and creating new opportunities for job creation. Mr. Anand assured the students with the best business plans of support to enable them to turnthe fundable idea into a reality.

लिंग्याज विद्यापीठ डीम्डू-टू-बी यूनिवर्सिटी में दो दिवसीय अंतर्राष्ट्रीय कॉन्फ्रेंस का हुआ आयोजन

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इग्नाइटः इम्पावरिंग इनोवेशन एंड लीडरशीप फॉर थराईविंग स्टार्ट-अपस् रहा थीम देश-विदेश से लगभग 500 प्रतिभागियों ने लिया हिस्सा

संदीप सैंडी, डेमोक्रेटिक फ्रंट, चंडीगढ़–04 नवम्बर  :

लिंग्याज विद्यापीठ डीम्ड-टू-बी यूनिवर्सिटी के स्कूल ऑफ कॉमर्स एंड मैनेजमेंट की ओर से आईसीएसएसआर के सहयोग से दो दिवसीय अंतर्राष्ट्रीय कॉन्फ्रेंस का आयोजन किया गया। जिसकी थीम इग्नाइटः इम्पावरिंग इनोवेशन एंड लीडरशीप फॉर थराईविंग स्टार्ट-अपस् रहा। इस कांफ्रेंस के उद्घाटन सत्र में मुख्य अतिथि के रूप में प्रोफेसर डॉ अतुल खोसला, वाइस चांसलर शूलिनी यूनिवर्सिटी, गेस्ट ऑफ ऑनर प्रोफेसर डॉ जस्टिन पॉल, एडिटर इन चीफ इंटरनेशनल जर्नल ऑफ कन्जयूमर स्टडीज, विले पब्लिकेशन और पैनेल स्पीकर प्रोफेसर कोकिल जैन डीन रिसर्च एफआईआईबी, प्रोफेसर डॉ अमित सेठ डायरेक्टर मानव रचना इंटरनेशनल इंस्टियूट ऑफ रिसर्च एंड स्टडीज, प्रोफेसर डॉ संदीप ग्रोवर, संतोष वेंकटेश्वर के रूप में शामिल हुए। कार्यक्रम की अध्यक्षता यूनिवर्सिटी चांसलर डॉ. पिचेश्वर गड्ढे, प्रो. चांसलर प्रोफेसर (डॉ.) एम. के. सोनी तथा रेजिस्ट्रार प्रेम कुमार सालवान और डॉ स्मृति महाजन द्वारा की गई। इस कांफ्रेंस के उद्घाटन सत्र को संबोधित करते हुए विश्वविद्यालय के कुलपति डॉ पिचेश्वर गड्ढे ने कहा कि आज के समय में रिसर्च का महत्त्व हर क्षेत्र में देखने को मिलता है। जरूरत है कि इस दिशा में होने वाले प्रयास समाजोपयोगी व उससे संबंधित समस्याओं के निदान पर केंद्रित हों। इसके पश्चात कांफ्रेंस की स्मारिका का विमोचन किया गया। इस अवसर पर प्रोफेसर डॉ जस्टिन पॉल ने विभिन्न क्षेत्रों में रिसर्च और उसके व्यावहारिक प्रयोग पर विस्तार से चर्चा की। दो दिवसीय सम्मेलन बहुत ही उल्लासपूर्ण रहा और समापन समारोह में प्रोफेसर एम एन हुडा, डायरेक्टर, भारती विद्यापीठ इंस्टीट्यूट ऑफ कम्पयूटर एप्लिकेशन एंड मैनेजमेंट और प्रो डॉ अनिल सरीन पोस्ट डॉक्टरेट डीलिट मैनेजमेंट, पीजीडीबीएम, आईएमआई मुख्य रूप से मौजूद रहे। इस दौरान लगभग 120 शोधार्थी एवं छात्र-छात्राओं द्वारा रिसर्च पेपर प्रजेंटेशन दी गई। इसमें लगभग 500 विषय विशेषज्ञों एवं शोर्धार्थियों ने भाग लिया। समापन सत्र में श्रेष्ठ पेपर प्रस्तुतीकरण के लिए प्रतिभागियों को पुरस्कृत किया गया। पहला पुरस्कार अंकिता गुलाटी रिसर्च स्कोलर और युक्ता को, नीतिशास्त्र, अस्सिटेंट प्रोफेसर और अंकित को दूसरा और विमल को तीसरा पुरस्कार मिला।
अंत में डीन अकेडमिक प्रोफेसर डॉ सीमा बुशरा ने देश विदेश से पधारे अतिथियों का आभार व्यक्त किया गया। कॉन्फ्रेंस के मुख्य समन्वयक एवं विभिन्न समिति समन्वयकों एवं उनके सहयोगियों को कार्यक्रम की सफलता हेतु बधाई दी। 

Panjab University to Host Model United Nations and Youth Parliament 2023

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Koral ‘Purnoor’, Democratic Front, Chandigarh  –  02 November:

Panjab University to Host Model United Nations and Youth Parliament 2023

Panjab University is all set to host the prestigious Model United Nations and Youth Parliament 2023,Experiential Learning Programme from November 7thto 9th November 2023 under, “Igniting India’s Journey to 2047; Vision of a Developed India” on the theme: ‘Future of work; Industry 4.0, Innovation and 21st century’.

The official brochure and poster of the event were released by HonourableVice Chancellor, Panjab university on 2ndNovember, showcasing the event’s commitment to fostering diplomatic discourse and innovative thinking.  Prof. Meena Sharma CoordinatorYouth Parliament 2023, Experiential Learning Programme deliberated that therewill be three distinct committees, each addressing unique global agendas, delegates will have the chance to simulate international diplomacy, engage in thought-provoking debates, and propose creative solutions to the world’s pressing challenges on agendas of “Empowering Global progress: Ethical Governance of Artificial Intelligence for sustainable development and economic growth”, “Tech enabled Empowerment; advancing gender equality through innovation and education in the digital age ” & “ Examining initiatives and policies to enhance the skills of existing work force and promoting lifelong learning”.

The conference is expected to draw participants from various University Departments and affiliated colleges providing an engaging platform for passionate students to tackle critical global issues. The central theme for this event is “Future of work, Industry 4.0, Innovation, and 21st-century skills,” reflecting the evolving landscape of work and the skills needed in this dynamic era, emphasizing the need for innovation. It underscores the importance of 21st-century skills, like critical thinking and digital literacy, to navigate this dynamic environment.