Chandigarh, March 24:The Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria attended as Chief Guest the programme titled“75 Years of Chandigarh: Honouring Indian Modernists of Chandigarh” held at the Government Museum and Art Gallery, Chandigarh. The event was organised by the Chandigarh Administration and Chandigarh Citizens Foundation to mark 75 years of the city’s creation.

Addressing the gathering, the Administrator congratulated the organisers and said that Chandigarh stands as a symbol of modern India’s vision and planned development. He appreciated the role of the Administration in maintaining the city’s unique character through planned growth, cleanliness, green spaces and improved civic infrastructure. Referring to the city’s journey since its development began in 1951, he said Chandigarh has emerged as a global model of balanced urban living and highlighted the need to preserve its heritage while moving towards sustainable and future-ready development.

The Administrator emphasised that Indian architects, engineers and administrators played a crucial role in translating the city’s vision into reality. He said the programme aimed to acknowledge their invaluable contribution and to pass on their legacy to future generations. Stressing public participation, he added that residents of Chandigarh have also contributed significantly to shaping the city and called upon institutions, youth and citizens to actively participate in programmes planned between 2026 and 2028 to celebrate 75 years of Chandigarh.

On the occasion, the first group of 12 Indian modernists who contributed to the city’s planning and development were honoured. As most of them are no longer alive, their family members received the recognition, while senior architect S. D. Sharma accepted the honour in person. The ceremony highlighted the importance of preserving Chandigarh’s architecture, green cover and planned infrastructure while strengthening smart initiatives, sustainable development and citizen participation.

The Administrator also noted the role of the Chandigarh Citizens Foundation, established in 2025 under the leadership of V. P. Malik, in promoting heritage conservation, inclusivity and sustainable living through various initiatives.

The event concluded with a call to enhance awareness and collective efforts to preserve Chandigarh’s legacy and strengthen its identity as a model planned city.