MoSJE to Organise National Chintan Shivir on the Theme “Antyodaya ka Sankalp, Amrit Kaal ka Pratibimb – Viksit Bharat ke Sankalp ke Saath” in Chandigarh from April 24–26, 2026
Centre and States to Deliberate on Strengthening Social Justice Delivery at 3-Day Shivir
Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar to Preside Over Chintan Shivirin Presence of Ministers of State
Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria, to attend the Chintan Shivir on 24th April, 2026
SAMAVESH Portal, NMBA 2.0, SETU and SMILE Apps Among Key Launches at Shivir
Chandigarh, 23.04.2026:The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment will organise a three-day Chintan Shivir with States and Union Territories on the Theme “Antyodaya ka Sankalp, Amrit Kaal ka Pratibimb – Viksit Bharat @2047” fromApril 24 to 26, 2026 in Chandigarh. The theme embodies the Ministry’s commitment to inclusive empowerment in consonance with the vision of Amrit Kaal and a Viksit Bharat.
The Shivir aims to strengthen the delivery of social justice initiatives, improve last-mile implementation of key schemes, and develop an actionable roadmap for inclusive and sustainable empowerment of marginalised communities.
The inaugural session will be presided over by Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar, in the presence of Ministers of State Shri B. L. Verma and Shri Ramdas Athawale. The event will witness participation from Ministers andofficials of States and UTs, along with Secretaries and senior officers of the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.
The programme will commence with an exhibition showcasing flagship schemes of the Ministry. On the occasion, several key digital and policy initiatives will be launched, including the SAMAVESH portal, NMBA 2.0 App, SETU App, and SMILE App. A book on Minimum Standards for Dementia Care Homes and Model Guidelines for Beggar Homes will also be released. Additionally, Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between the National Institute of Social Defence and various Universities and Institutions will be signed.
Over the three days, the Chintan Shivir will feature structured thematic discussions and breakout sessions. Breakout group sessions will focus on key thematic areas. On April 25, discussions will cover scholarship delivery and educational access, the Nasha Mukt Bharat ecosystem, dignity in sanitation work and Mission Zero sanitation-related deaths, senior citizen care, and early intervention for children with disabilities. On April 26, sessions will address area-based socio-economic development, inclusion and identity of marginalised communities, access to credit and financial empowerment, accessibility, and certification for persons with disabilities.
Each group will assess the current status of implementation, identify gaps, and share best practices and innovative solutions. The groups will present short-, medium-, and long-term recommendations with defined timelines. A standard operating procedure has been designed to ensure that discussions remain structured, evidence-based, and outcome-oriented.
The Chintan Shivir will serve as a collaborative platform for States and UTs to exchange successful models and strengthen coordination. The outcomes are expected to contribute to a practical reform agenda focused on convergence, digital innovation, and improved governance in social justice programmes.
The deliberations will culminate in a clear roadmap for strengthening India’s social justice framework through enhanced coordination, community participation, and technology-enabled delivery. A press briefing will be held on the concluding day to share key outcomes and the way forward.
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Artificial Intelligence Lab Inaugurated at Government Model Senior Secondary School, Sector 32, Chandigarh
Chandigarh, [23/04/2026]: An Artificial Intelligence (AI) Lab was successfully inaugurated at Government Model Senior Secondary School Sector 32 Chandigarh in the presence of distinguished dignitaries, marking a significant step towards advancing digital education among students.
The initiative has been led by Global Youth Federation, affiliated with Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, in collaboration with the State NSS Cell Chandigarh. The project received strong support from SAGE Foundation, which played a pivotal role by providing computers (CPUs) and supporting the necessary infrastructure for the lab.
The AI Lab has been developed to provide a conducive and modern learning environment, enabling students to explore Artificial Intelligence through practical exposure. The initiative aims not only to introduce advanced technology but also to create meaningful learning opportunities that enhance students’ skills and understanding.
The programme was conducted under the guidance of the school Principal, Sangeeta Chhabra. The inauguration ceremony was graced by eminent guests including Vinay Kumar, District Youth Officer, MY Bharat Kendra, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India; Mahesh Garg, Director, Sage Business; and Sudeepti Rastogi, Learning & Development Head, Global Sage Foundation Ambassador.
During the event, the dignitaries appreciated the initiative and emphasized that Artificial Intelligence represents the future of education and innovation. They highlighted that such facilities will enable students to acquire new-age skills, strengthen analytical thinking, and prepare for emerging career opportunities.
The AI Lab is expected to benefit students through hands-on learning experiences, fostering creativity, building confidence, and enhancing their understanding of real-world technological applications.
On the occasion, Rohit Kumar, Director, Global Youth Federation, expressed his gratitude to all partners and stakeholders for their support. He reiterated the organization’s commitment to creating inclusive learning opportunities and ensuring that every student has access to modern technological education.
The programme concluded on a positive note, reinforcing the importance of digital learning, innovation, and youth empowerment. This initiative is expected to have a long-term impact by equipping students with essential skills and preparing them to contribute effectively to society and nation-building.
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Inspection of Observation Home, Chandigarh; Review of Food Quality and Sanitation Arrangements
Chandigarh, April 23, 2026: The Observation Home, Chandigarh was inspected today by Sunil Kumar, Chief Judicial Magistrate-cum-Secretary, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Chandigarh.
During the visit, the kitchen facilities were thoroughly checked to assess whether food for the children is being prepared in a hygienic manner and in accordance with prescribed standards. Emphasis was laid on ensuring that nutritious and safe meals are being provided to the children residing in the Home.
The washrooms and overall sanitation arrangements were also inspected to evaluate cleanliness, maintenance, and availability of essential facilities, with a view to ensuring a healthy and safe environment for the children.
Necessary directions were issued to the concerned officials to further strengthen the arrangements and to ensure the continued welfare and well-being of the children.
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Promoting digital participation in Census 2027
In a significant step towards promoting digital participation in Census 2027, Shri Satyapal Jain, former Member of Parliament and Additional Solicitor General of India, successfully completed his self-enumeration through the online Census portal today. The process was facilitated by Ms. Akriti Pandey, Deputy Director & Head of Office and Shri Sonam Chhering, Assistant Director (T), Directorate of Census Operations, UT Chandigarh.
By undertaking self-enumeration, Shri Jain highlighted the ease, convenience and importance of this citizen-centric digital initiative. His participation sets an encouraging example for citizens to actively engage in the Census process.
The self-enumeration facility enables individuals to submit their details online, ensuring improved accuracy, transparency and efficiency in data collection for better policy planning.