People often consume non-cereal or millet based light food and also refrain from eating onion, garlic, non-vegetarian food and alcohol. They usually search for food prepared with ingredients used in fasting. Accordingly, there are several places which offers pure Navratri Thali in Chandigarh to feast you well while you are fasting.

6 Eateries offering special Navratri Thali in Chandigarh

If you are fasting, then do not miss the Navratri Thali in Chandigarh at these restaurants. These places will give you finger-licking experience and one would not be able to resist the Navratri delight menu even if you are fasting or not.

1. Sagar Ratna– It is a pure vegetarian restaurant and known for its finest South-Indian food. During the festive season, it offers special Navratri Thali in Chandigarh along with other wide range of festive menu. It includes Sabudana Kheer, Kuttu Pooris, Samak Chawal Khichdi, Raita, Paneer, Aalo and much more filled with flavours.

Location– Sector-35C, Chandigarh

Sector-17E, Chandigarh

Elante Mall, Chandigarh

2. Sindhi Sweets– This is one of the oldest food joints and is famous for its premium sweets. They offer multiple options on their Navratri delight menu along with delicious flavours and taste. Their Chilla, Royal Pineapple Raita, aalo Raita, Sabudana Kheer and Fruit ki Chatpati Chat is something not to miss and must try.

Location– Sector-17C, Chandigarh

Sector-32D, Chandigarh

Sector-8C, Chandigarh

Sector-26, Chandigarh

Elante Mall, Chandigarh

3. Bikanerwala– Want to try authentic vrat dishes this Navratri? Then do not miss to visit Bikanerwala near you. They offer 2 types of Navratri Thali- a normal thali and a deluxe thali. A deluxe thali has a bit more stuff to eat and is superior than normal one. Their menu comprises of special appetizers like falahari namkeen, falahari kebab platter, falahari paneer pakoda, aaloo masala chat, aaloo bonda and badaam cutlet that will make your mouth salivate to an unlimited extent.

Location– Sector-22C, Chandigarh

Sector-40D, Chandigarh

Sector-26, Chandigarh

4. Shree Rathnam– It is majorly a South-Indian food joint which offers a perfect sattvik feast for all those who are fasting. They offer Navratri Thali in Chandigarh, prepared with both hygiene and taste. Their vrat thali includes dishes like aloo ki sabzi, kuttu puri, malai paneer, kaddoo (pumpkin) ki sabzi, curd, sabudana kheer, and sabudana papad. Each dish has a unique flavor and will surely satisfy your hunger even while you fast.

Location– Sector-17, Chandigarh

Sector-35C, Chandigarh

5. Gopal’s– This can be a next favourite choice for special Navratri Thali in Chandigarh, for having simple and sattvik food. They offer a decent festive menu along with the top-notch quality of food. Their Navratri menu includes kaddu ke pakode, cucumber raita, aloo raita, aloo bhaji, paneer ki sabzi, kuttu ki poori, Vrat rice and Kheer. All the meals are prepared in a clean and hygienic kitchen and the Navratri dishes don’t include any garlic or onion.

Location– Sector-8C, Chandigarh

Sectoe-15D, Chandigarh

Sector-35C, Chandigarh

Sector- 19C, Chandigarh

6. Baba Dairy– This restaurant is famous for its top-quality sweets, bakery and food including a newly renovated sitting area for the people. They prepare a full-fledged Navratri special menu with a wide range of lip-smacking dishes. They offer  aloo ki sabzi, paneer ki sabzi, vrat ke pakode, raita, sabudana kheer and Kuttu Puri. Each dish made with desi ghee and is free from onions and garlic.

Location– Sector-21C, Chandigarh

Last Words

These places offer the best Navratri Thali in Chandigarh, that too with quality food and affordable prices. So, next time you want to plan a get-together during Navratri, do not hesitate due to your fast. These restaurants are all prepared to serve you with their festive delights, keeping in view your fasting and ingredients of your feasting.

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There are about 47 Chowks in Chandigarh as of now, built to slow down, prevent crashes and traffic congestion. But keeping in view the present road mishaps, fatalities and traffic, the Municipal Corporation (MC) has decided to start the work of re-shaping and re-designing of Chowks in Chandigarh. This aims at lessen the impact of accidents and provide safety to people.

Need of Redesigning the Chowks in Chandigarh

Earlier the MC has initiated the work of re-designing 6 roundabouts in the city under a pilot project at a cost of Rs 1.40 crore. According to the officials, the initiate was carried out on the recommendation of Road Safety Council. The project was aimed to improve the road safety at Chowks in Chandigarh. After the success of the pilot project, now the MC is all prepared to re-shape other 14 roundabouts in the city.

Several major roundabouts under UT Administration will be re-designed and equipped with surveillance cameras and pavers around. The re-shaping aims at decreasing the impact in case of road accidents, easing traffic and providing safety.

According to the framework decided by the MC, the height of 6 Chowks in Chandigarh has been reduced from nearly 2 feet to 9 inches. This will avoid direct crashing with the roundabout during the mishap. Instead of using any hard or rough material, Paver blocks have been put around the chowks with 6-foot width. These pavers will ensure the safety of the commuters or pedestrians while crossing the road. Besides this, the CCTV cameras will also be installed on all these junctions and will be connected to the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) in Sector 17 for live surveillance.

Despite the new design, the geometry of the Chowks in Chandigarh will remain unchanged. The drivers have to pay to the officials for any damaged caused to the chowks. According to the officials, “Often, there are cases where the drunk car drivers damage chowks and speed away. We will identify their registration numbers through these cameras and recover losses from them.”

This concept of roundabout is already used in Panchkula and now will be implemented in Chandigarh. The decision to redesign the roundabouts was first taken during the state-level road safety council meeting, chaired by UT advisor Dharam Pal in 2021 and subsequently in 2022.

Experts point out that while roundabouts help commuters to self-regulate on speed, the traffic lights have an exact opposite effect. “The common tendency is to jump traffic lights, especially during non-peak hours. Roundabouts, on the contrary, are self-regulatory structures that act as traffic-calming devices,” says Navdeep Asija, a technical member of the state-level Road Safety Council and Punjab traffic adviser.

In a Nutshell

The UT Administration is taking a positive step towards the safety of the commuters. The re-designing and re-shaping of the Chowks in Chandigarh will help in lowering the road accidents and related fatalities. Alongside this will also provide easy to pedestrians will crossing the road. Furthermore, no change in the geometrical structure will not lead to spoil the ancient designing of rotary intersections in the city.

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After the huge success of 3^rd edition, 4^th Chandigarh Music and Film Festival is organized to explore the film industry in India. This festival lays out a platform for university students and young talents to dive into a world of cinematic wonders. Here, the young artists and masterminds can showcase their masterpieces and meet the popular & successful personalities of the film & music industry.

All about the 4^th Chandigarh Music and Film Festival

The 4^th edition of Chandigarh Music and Film Festival (CMFF) will begin from 7^th April and run till 9^th April 2024. The CMFF will take place at Municipal Bhawan, sector-35 Chd on 7^th April and Chandigarh University on 8^th & 9^th April. This event is open for all the cinema enthusiasts and the entry is absolutely free. This festival invites all those talents who are creative and direct short films, documentaries, feature films, non-fictions, animated films and music albums but don’t have a platform to showcase their hard work.

The Chandigarh Music and Film Festival will be attended by Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Jayprakash Shaw, Chandan Prabhakar, Pankaj Berry, Madhur Bhandarkar, Rupinder Kaur Rupi, Kiran Juneja, Malkit Rauni, Govind Namdev, Raj Dhaliwal, Nirmal Rishi, Pradeep Singh Rawat, Vijay Patkar, Akarsh Alagh, Balwinder Bicky and Sharhaan Singh as Guest of Honour.

The CMFF will have Short Film Screening from 10am to 2pm, Talk Show about Classic Music in Indian Cinema at 4pm and Opening Ceremony & Award Function from 6pm onwards.

Why you should attend Chandigarh Music and Film Festival?

However, breaking into the film industry can be a challenging journey as it requires dedication, hard work, and a platform to showcase your talent. Thus, Chandigarh Music and Film Festival is aspiring young film makers by providing creative possibilities, the opportunity to share stories, and the chance to impact audiences with their talents.

The 4^th CMFF will include:

• Diverse Film Screenings
• Engaging Panel Discussions
• Virtual Parts for Worldwide Openness
• Cultural Exchange and Community Building
• Learn from well-known directors and industry experts
• Support and shape local talents and young university students
• Informative, Fascinating and Entertaining Event

Overall, the 4^th Chandigarh Music and Film Festival will be a celebration of creativity, inspiration, and cultural unity. The festival aims at bringing the world to Chandigarh and showcasing the film talent under one roof.

You can grab your Free E- Passes through the official link of CMFF –https://forms.gle/i1eAK2LwkJZXLYV26

Or can collect free Entry passes from Municipal Bhawan Punjab Sec- 35A, Chandigarh, Goldline Electronic – SCO-477 Sec-35C, Chandigarh, MYFM – Dainik Bhaskar Building- Sec25, Chandigarh, Punjabi Hits Industrial Area PH-1 Chandigarh, Boogle Bollywood- H.No 2481 Sec-125, Sunny Enclave Mohali.

Last Words

After the previous success of CMFF in Chandigarh, now the 4^th Music and Film Festival is organized in Chandigarh. This festival will be seen as a supporting hand to all the young people and students who are struggling to enter the film industry. This festival will provide a platform to all those who are interested in the world of cinema. It will showcase their work, provide valuable insights and encourage the winners with the prizes as well. So do not miss the opportunity to visit CMFF and gather valuable knowledge.

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Although schools are directed to prescribe NCERT books for all classes by UT Education Department in 2018, still they issued a list of extra books and stationery. This adds as an extra burden on the parents as the prices of books are already high.

Store owners and Private Schools in Chandigarh on alert

As the new academic session starts, most parents have one common complaint i.e.- schools are forcing them to buy books and uniforms from selected shops at inflated prices. Whether there is a change in syllabus or not, every student is asked to buy a new and complete set of books and stationery. This adds to extra study material to students as well as extra financial load on parents.

According to the parents, the several Private Schools in Chandigarh have tie-ups with the stores. Only the selected stores sell the books and uniforms of the schools, rest stores do not stock them. This leads to huge chaos and rush at the stores resulting in long ques and increased waiting time.

According to UT Education Department, they had issued directions for all schools to not to ask parents to buy books or uniforms from a particular shop. Rather the parents should have freedom to purchase the stuff from anywhere. In 2018, the UT Education Department had directed schools to prescribe only NCERT books for all subjects, except language and mathematics for classes 1 and 2 and language, EVS and mathematics for classes 3 to 5. However, parents claimed that private schools continue to prescribe extra books.

UT Director School Education (DSC) Harsuhinderpal Singh Brar said, “strict action will be taken against the schools violating the directions.” The UT Education Department had directed the schools to only recommend books that are widely available at bookstores. Additionally, the schools were instructed to recommend books that are available with at least four bookstores in the city to avoid the over crowding at a single store. Furthermore, the Private Schools in Chandigarh were asked to publish the complete book list, so that books that will be required later during the academic session don’t have to be purchased at the beginning.

The high cost of books is the major concern of the parents. They have to pay more in the name of additional stationery. Parents are compelled to buy the entire package or set of books, which is already kept prepared by the store vendors. The prices of these sets are fixed and the vendors refuse to give loose books. The UT Education Department and UT Excise and Taxation Department have already partnered and are keeping a check on the bookstores and Private Schools in Chandigarh to avoid any malpractice.

Summarizing Thoughts

Education industry today has become a business and source of earning profit. Private Schools in Chandigarh are in tie-ups with the designated stores to sell the books and uniforms with inflated and fixed prices. This will ultimately lead to the financial burden on the common man. Government must investigate the matter and should fix a subsidized price as education is a basic right. Nobody must be deprived of education because of high fees or books costs.

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Swimming is one of the best exercises that can help you to stay in good shape and keep your mind calm at the same time. Also, with the rising temperature, nothing can be as joyful as taking a dip into the pool and beating the heat. Therefore, swimming pools in Chandigarh are ready to offer you a refreshing dip to beat the heat waves of these hot summers as Sports Department has finally opened the pools for the public.

Overview of swimming pools in Chandigarh

There are more than 10 swimming pools in Chandigarh which runs under the Sports Department. These swimming pools have opened for the general public from 1st April 2024. Some of these are outdoor, open-air pools, and the rest are indoor ones providing all weather swimming facilities to people. Now people can enrol themselves for these pools through filling a simple form containing all the details about the pool, the fee structure, timings and rules & regulations.

List of swimming pools in Chandigarh under Sports Department

Presently, the mentioned list of pools are in use and have opened for the public.

• Sector-23 (Nursery Pool)
• Sector-23 (All Weather Pool)
• Lake Sports Complex
• Sector-38 (west)
• Sector-39
• Sector-34
• Sector-27
• Sector-43
• Sector-8
• Sector-56
• Sector-50

All about the Timings & Fees of swimming pools

The Sports Department has issued the timings to the public for the use of swimming pools. Some pools have distinctive timings for professionals, children, women and family, while the other pools carry some timings for all. Talking about the fee structure, a one time Membership fees for 6 months have to be paid for these swimming pools in Chandigarh. The fee structure for swimming pools is mentioned below:

• For Sector-23 (nursery pool)- Rs 1500 for students and Rs 3000 for non-students
• Timings- 6am- 8pm

• For Sector- 23 (all weather pool)- Rs 1800 for students and Rs 3500 for non-students
• Timings– 6am– 7am & 4pm- 5pm (National and state swimmers), 7am– 8am & 5pm– 6pm (Non-Students), 8am– 10am & 6pm– 8pm (Family Time)

• For Sector-43 – Rs 1500 for students and Rs 3000 for non-students. For Recreational player Rs 3300
• Timings- 6am-7am & 4pm-5pm (National & State Swimmers), 7am-8am & 5pm-6pm (Non-students), 8am-10am & 6pm-8pm (Family time)

• For Lake Sports Complex– Rs 1500 for 1 month
• Timings– 6 am to 9 am

• For Sector-38 (west)– -Rs 1800 for students and Rs 3500 for non-students
• Timings- 6am-7am & 4pm-5pm (National & State Swimmers), 7am-8am & 5pm-6pm (Non-students), 8am-10am & 6pm-8pm (Family time)

• For Sector-39– Rs 1800 for students and Rs 3500 for non-students
• Timings- 6am-7am & 4pm-5pm (National & State Swimmers), 7am-8am & 5pm-6pm (Non-students), 8am-10am & 6pm-8pm (Family time)

• For Sector-34– Rs 1800 for students and Rs 3500 for non-students
• Timings- 6am-7am & 4pm-5pm (National & State Swimmers), 7am-8am & 5pm-6pm (Non-students), 8am-10am & 6pm-8pm (Family time)

• For Sector-27– Rs 1800 for students and Rs 3500 for non-students
• Timings- 6am- 10pm

• For Sector-8– Rs 1800 for students and Rs 3500 for non-students
• Timings- 6am-7am & 4pm-5pm (National & State Swimmers), 7am-8am & 5pm-6pm (Non-students), 8am-10am & 6pm-8pm (Family time)

• For Sector-56– Rs 1800 for students and Rs 3500 for non-students
• Timings- 6am-7am & 4pm-5pm (National & State Swimmers), 7am-8am & 5pm-6pm (Non-students), 8am-10am & 6pm-8pm (Family time)

• For Sector-50– Rs 1800 for students and Rs 3500 for non-students
• Timings- 6am-7am & 4pm-5pm (National & State Swimmers), 7am-8am & 5pm-6pm (Non-students), 8am-10am & 6pm-8pm (Family time)

Rules of swimming pools in Chandigarh

The Sports Department of Chandigarh has issued several rules for the swimmers. These Rules and Regulations for the safety and precautions at the swimming pools in Chandigarh.

1. Entry into the Swimming Pool with Identity Card only. Identity Cards to be issued by the office of the Directorate of Sports by making an application on the prescribed form duly signed by the applicant and endorsed by the parents, countersigned by the Head of the Institution or Employer upon the recommendations of the coach.

2. Different levels of the depts. of the Swimming Pool are being painted with red colour on the inner wall above the water level of the Swimming Pool. Shallow and deep areas of each pool shall be segregated/cordoned off by putting a rope.

3. Swimming Coach and Life Guard are bound to be present during Swimming hours so as to keep a vigilant eye on the Swimmers. An attendant at Swimming Pool would be present. Swimming Coach must be in the pool for training purposes also.

4. Swimmers would deposit their Identity Cards with the attendant before entering into the Swimming Pool as per the timings indicated on the card and Identity Card to be collected before leaving the Swimming Pool. In case any Identity Card remains with the attendant he would immediately report to the coach.

5. There would be a gap of five minutes in between the timings for various groups. It would be the duty of the Coach and Life Guard to have a look inside the swimming pool and the changing rooms before and after of each session.

6. Indiscipline on the part of swimmers would tantamount to cancellation of their membership.

7. The member/trainee shall be responsible for the damage caused wilfully or otherwise to any of the property of the centre and shall be required to make good to the loss or damage thereof.

8. Swimmers are required to be in their proper kit/costume and they have to get shower before entering the Swimming Pool.

9. Any type of intoxicants and liquor is strictly prohibited in the premises.

Things you should know before diving into a swimming pool

• Use stairs for entering the pool.
• Shower before using pool.
• Wear proper swimming costume and cap.
• No food or drinks are allowed.
• Do not smoke or litter in and around the pool premises.
• Do not run or play rough.
• Look before you dive.
• Keep a watch on children.
• Immediately call for a lifeguard or coach in case of any trouble.

Below is the Registration Form for swimming pools in Chandigarh

Click here to – Download form

Last Words

Sports Department is all geared up with the swimming pools in Chandigarh. These pools can be used by general public as well as the professionals. Swimming pools are the best way to stay refreshed and fit in summers. People just have to pay one time fee and can enjoy swimming for rest 6 months. So Chandigarhians, forget about the sizzling heat waves of summers and get ready to jump into the reviving pools.

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Today, golf courses are struggling to cope with the rush of walk-in (pay-and-play) golfers, and demands for new memberships. Even the Chandigarh Golf Club has seen a large numbers spike in past few years. Keeping in view the developing interest of people in golf, Chandigarh Open has been organized by Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) at Chandigarh Golf Club. The tournament will feature professionals from India as well as globally.

Overview of Chandigarh Open at Chandigarh Golf Club

Chandigarh Golf Club is all set to host Chandigarh Open from 3^rd April to 6^th April 2024. The tournament will witness top professional golfers from India as well as internationally. Also, 3 amateurs will be competing and playing along the professionals. Chandigarh Open is been organized by Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) and the tournament carries a prize money of Rs 1 crore.

The Chandigarh Golf Club will feature top leading Indian golf professionals like Jeev Milkha Singh, Gaganjeet Bhullar, SSP Chawrasia, Om Prakash Chouhan, Manu Gandas, Rahil Gangjee, Rashid Khan, Veer Ahlawat, Abhinav Lohan, Yuvraj Singh Sandhu, Chikkarangappa, Karandeep Kochhar and others to compete in the inaugural Chandigarh Open 2024.

The top global professionals include, Sri Lankan’s- N Thangaraja and K Prabagaran, Bangladesh’s- Jamal Hossain and Badal Hossain, Andorra’s- Kevin Esteve Rigaill, America’s- Varun Chopra as well as rookies, alongside PGTI qualifying school winner- Matias Dominguez of Chile, Nepal’s- Subash Tamang, Italy’s- Michele Ortolani and Czechia’s- Stepan Danek.

Besides national and international players, Chandigarh based professionals- Ajeetesh Sandhu, Jairaj Singh Sandhu, Angad Cheema, Harendra Gupta, Abhijit Singh Chadha, Gurbaaz Mann, Amritinder Singh and Ravi Kumar will also feature in Chandigarh Open.

Furthermore, 3 amateurs are also participating in the tournament. They include- 14yr old Harjai Milkha Singh, the son of Indian professional golfer- Jeev Milkha Singh. The other 2 are- Ayaan Gupta and Ram Singh Maan from Chandigarh.

The major attraction of the tournament will be watching the father-son duo i.e.- Jeev Milkha Singh and Harjai Milkha Singh playing against and competing each other. Earlier the Harjai has won some tournaments at local level including US Kids Golf European Championship (U-13) event in June last year. The Chandigarh Open tournament will mark as his debut in the world of golf.

Upon this moment Jeev Milkha Singh told, “He (Harjai) was never forced to play golf; there was no pressure. Maybe he has watched me play since his childhood, and he got attracted to the sport. I had played the role of a caddie for him in age group events, but this (Chandigarh Open) stage will be different. I am emotional and excited,” Although for the first time, the Chandigarh Golf Club course would witness a father-son duo featuring in the same PGTI event. “This will be amazing. I hope he plays well and gives me tough competition,” added Jeev.

PGTI CEO Uttam Singh Mundi said, “We are pleased to announce the inaugural edition of the Nissan presents Chandigarh Open 2024 hosted by Chandigarh Golf Club. The golf-loving Chandigarh crowds can expect a visual spectacle.” “It promises to be a thrilling week with some of India’s golfing greats highlighting a strong field” he added.

Wrapping Thoughts

Tournaments like Chandigarh Open will encourage more people to build interest in golf sport. The people who are on the fence of whether to join a golf club or not, do not think any further and just go for it. Chandigarh people must visit the Golf Club and enjoy the beauty of lush greenery, peace and spend some quality time with their dear ones.

“Golf is a compromise between what your ego wants you to do, what experience tells you to do, and what your nerves let you do.” – Bruce Crampton

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The new financial year (FY) 2024-25 has already begun, and It’s the time for every business, corporate sectors, government institutes, offices to update their rules, regulations and policies. This annual updating of policies is necessary to keep a check on revenues, liabilities, budgets, investments etc. Thus, the Government also came up with the new Excise Policy in Chandigarh for 2024-25. Not only this, the government also revised the policies and set up new budgets for Income Tax, Insurance, Banking, Water & Electricity, Transportation etc. To generate maximum revenue, overcome the losses and meet the required targets, change in policies is must.

Rundown to new Excise Policy in Chandigarh

The government has laid new Excise Policy in Chandigarh which came in effect from 1^st April 2024. The Excise and Taxation Department of Chandigarh has conducted a meeting under the chairmanship of Excise-Taxation Commissioner- Vinay Pratap Singh and Excise Collector cum Additional Excise and Taxation Commissioner- Harshuhinder Pal Singh. The instructions regarding the implementation of new Excise Policy in Chandigarh and sell the unsold liquor vends were discussed in the meeting.

With regards to the new Excise Policy in Chandigarh, there is no change in the rates of liquor in the shops and drinks will remain the same this year also. No increase in prices will be seen in Chandigarh under new financial year. The rates of hard drinks and beer will remain same this year also, which were previously there in the last financial year 2023-2024. A total of 97 contracts were to be opened for this financial year. But under new Excise Policy in Chandigarh only 60 liquor contracts will be opened, for the rest the auction process is yet to be done and financial bids will open after the clarification by the Election Commission.

For Restaurants, Clubs, Hotels and Bars

However, there may be an increase in prices at hotels, clubs and bars. A slight increase in the rates of liquor served to consumers in the city’s restaurants, clubs, and hotels instead of liquor vends can be seen. This is because the administration had increased some bar fees in this excise policy.

• The fee for A category i.e. with 100 rooms in the hotel was increased from Rs 18 lakh to Rs 20 lakh.
• The fee for B category, the bar license fee was increased from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 17 lakh.
• The fee for C category is increased from Rs 12 to 15 lakh.
• The fee for D category which includes restaurants, clubs and hotels and having 25 rooms, is increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 12 lakh.

Therefore, due to an increase in the fees, there will be a slight difference in the price of liquor in restaurants and bars in this new financial year.

Online Registration Portal

The Excise and Taxation Department has included a provision of registration through online portal in new Excise Policy in Chandigarh. Through online system, licensees can renew the liquor brands/labels that were already approved last year in a simpler process. The licensees can submit the documents and fees along with an undertaking that there is no change in bottle brand, label, colour, size, FSSAI licence number etc. The approval will be issued immediately through an auto-mode after the required payment of fees is done.

This will promote an ease in doing business by reducing paperwork and physical visits. This will make the process faster and more convenient.

Liquor Vends find No Takers

Chandigarh Administration is unable to find buyers for the liquor vends. Despite 2 rounds of auction in March, Excise and Taxation Department has been able to allot only 60 vends out of total 97 under new Excise Policy in Chandigarh. (51 vends sold in first auction and 9 vends sold in second auction). In the third auction, bids had come for 6 contracts but due to lack of clarification from the Election Department, their financial bids could not be opened, and allotment could not be done.

The reason behind the unsold vends is high VAT and Excise Duty. Chandigarh levies a 12.5% VAT on ex-distillery price (EDP) and pays ₹450 to ₹3,500 per liquor case as excise duty. Whereas in Punjab, only 1% of Excise Duty and VAT is imposed.

Under the new Excise Policy in Chandigarh 2024-25, Excise Act, 1914 & the rules framed by department and MCC guidelines of ECI, the stakeholders are given a clear and strict directions to adhere to these guidelines. In case of any violation, stakeholder must face consequences of the actions taken.

Wrapping Thoughts

As per the new Excise Policy in Chandigarh, it is a positive news for the city people that there is no increase in prices of liquor. Additionally, the process of registration has also became easy through online portal. But due to high VAT and Duty, the vends remain unsold till yet. The Administration is looking forward to sell the vends and achieve the target of 97 of financial year 2024-25.

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Now the people can enjoy a diverse range of award-winning films from around the world.  This esteemed event will bring the successful and popular actors, filmmakers, industry professionals and cinephiles together to celebrate the art and culture of cinema. This International Film Festival in Chandigarh will showcase various films spanning different genres and themes

Everything to know about International Film Festival in Chandigarh

The Cinevesture International Film Festival (CIFF) will take place from 27 March to 31 March 2024 in Chandigarh. The Film screenings will be held at Cinepolis, Jagat Mall, Sector 17, while other events will be held at hotel Taj Chandigarh. Also, an exhibition will be organized at the Sector-17 Underpass to celebrate Raj Kapoor and Dev Anand’s hundredth anniversary.

The International Film Festival in Chandigarh is lined up with more than 67 titles including world cinema, Indian feature films, classics as well as shorts films. CIFF will not only screen Indian and international titles but also connect filmmakers and industry specialists with investors, exhibitors, and distributors.

The International Film Festival in Chandigarh is organized by Nina Lath, the former National Film Development Corporation Managing Director and Film Bazaar founder. The CIFF director is former Films Division Director-General- VS Kundu and its Artistic Director is Bina Paul, who previously directed the International Film Festival of Kerala.

The CIFF is inaugurated by actor Boman Irani along with Rasika Duggal and Rajshri Deshpande. The event kicked off with the screening of award-winning French film,” The Taste of Things” starring Juliette Binoche.

The International Film Festival in Chandigarh will showcase 24 International features in the World Cinema section. It includes the Jonathan Glazer’s Oscar-winning- The Zone Of Interest, Hirokazu Kore-eda’s- Monster, the animated film- Sultana’s Dream, the Iranian documentary- Seven Winters in Tehran and Sri Lankan master Prasanna Vithanage’s- Paradise, starring Darshana Rajendran and Roshan Mathew.

Among the Indian titles, Gurvinder Singh’s- Adh Chanani Raat, Rima Das’s- Tora’s Husband, Jayant Somalkar’s- Sthal and Lijo Jose Pellissery’s- Malaikottai Vaaliban will be presented. The Indian documentaries include Harjit Singh’s film- Imroz and Varun Grover’s short film- Kiss. The Indian classics that will be screened at open-air screenings are Satyajit’s Ray’s Jalsaghar and Guru Dutt’s Kaagaz Ke Phool. The event also includes a children’s section compiled by Harinder Sandhu.

The festival will host 20 masterclasses and panel discussions featuring an impressive lineup of sessions with film personalities such as Karan Johar, Tahira Kashyap, Abhay Deol, Richa Chadha, Ali Fazal, Varun Grover, Rashmeet Kaur, Roshan Mathew, Suvinder Vicky, Boman Irani, Rasika Duggal, Rajshri Deshpande, Hansal Mehta, Gulshan Devaiah, Randeep Jha, Shekhar Kapur, Sudhir Mishra, Saugata Mukherjee, and others.

The International Film Festival in Chandigarh will come to an end with South Korea’s highest grossing film of 2024, a horror drama- Exhuma.

Wrapping Thoughts

Attending such events where one can watch several popular films that too at national and international level, is something that only few can experience. So, Chandigarhians do not miss out this opportunity and do visit the CIFF. Express your love for cinema and get to know more about the diverse cultural films. The information regarding passes and registration for the event can be accessed through www.ciff.in.

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But, a day after the General House gave its approval to the agenda of providing 20,000 liters of free water to every family of Chandigarh, Administrator Banwarilal Purohit turned it down stating that free water is not possible. The Administration informs the residents about the annual hike of water tariff in Chandigarh as per the bylaws approved in 2022.

Overview of hike in water tariff in Chandigarh

In between then going debate for free water among UT Administration and Mayor, the Municipal Corporation has issued an order to increase the water tariff in Chandigarh by 5%. The change in rates will be observed from upcoming financial year i.e. 1^st April 2024 to 2025. According to the MC’s view, the hike had been carried out keeping in view the losses. “To ensure that there is not a big gap in spending and income in future, a small annual increase has been mandated”, they said.

From April 1, residents will have to shell out more for water with 5 percent. As per bylaws approved in 2022, annual recurring increase in water charges are coming into effect.

Aam Aadmi Party and Congress alliance Mayor Kuldeep Kumar Tita had approved free water of 20,000 litres to every family. Meanwhile the Punjab Governor, Banwarilal Purohit informed that these “freebies” are not possible. Purohit stated, “I won’t approve the proposal for free water. How can we give free water in Chandigarh when we have already signed loan agreement for 15 years for the 24×7 water project?”

The Governor referred to the agreement signed between the MC and French government’s Agence Francaise de Developpement (AFD). The total cost of 24×7 water project is estimated as Rs 510 crore. Out of which Rs 412 crore is been provided by AFD in the form of loan, which is to be paid in 15 years. The city will have to pay Rs 40 crore annually to AFD and the repayment of loan will begin after the completion of the project.

Purohit declared the demand of Mayor as financially unviable and not backed by any detailed plan or scheme. The administration stated that the hikes in water tariff in Chandigarh were done after a detailed discussion with all stakeholders and keeping in view the financial interest of the Municipal Corporation of the UT. The Chandigarh Administration told, “rates would be hiked as per the bylaws approved in 2022. The water tariff in Chandigarh in each slab, be it residential, commercial or industrial, will be enhanced by 5 percent. The new rates will be notified soon.”

The new rates will vary from Rs 3.15 per kilolitre (kl) to Rs 20 per kl depending on the consumption. Currently, these range between Rs 3 per kl and Rs 8 per kl. The residents falling in the 0-15 kl slab will have to pay Rs 3.15 per kl instead of the current Rs 3 per kl.

Chandigarh Congress has expressed their displeasure on the decision made by Banwarilal Purohit, for contemptuously rejecting the public welfare scheme of providing free water to the city residents. They stated that residents were already fed up with the high-water rates. The 5% hike, coupled with the existing 30% sewerage cess on the total water bill is going to add to their woes.

Wrapping Thoughts

The people must forget about free water, instead prepare themselves to shell out more due to increase in water tariff in Chandigarh. Generally, it is the responsibility of the Government itself to provide basic amenities to people for free or at subsidized rates. But Chandigarh government has planned big for the future of the city and its residents. Let’s hope that today’s hike in water rates for residential, commercial or industrial sector should bring some fruitful results in future.

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For every IPL lover and Punjab Kings’ fan in Tricity, here’s a great news for you all! A newly built Mullanpur Stadium in Chandigarh is all set to host its first ever IPL Match. The match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals on 23^rd March 2024 is to be played in this newly constructed stadium. Not only this, the Punjab Kings have announced Mullanpur Stadium in Chandigarh as their new home venue.

Insights of first IPL Match at Mullanpur Stadium in Chandigarh

The Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Stadium in Mullanpur, will host the home matches of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the upcoming T20 tournament. The Punjab Kings will play their first match at Mullanpur Stadium in Chandigarh against Delhi Capitals on Saturday, 23^rd March at 3:30pm. Earlier the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali has hosted home matches of PBKS for over the years.

The new Mullanpur Stadium in Chandigarh has newly constructed top-class infrastructure along with all modern facilities. It can host a capacity of nearly about 35000 people and has well equipped parking for about 7000 cars. The stadium also has a well-managed drainage system, which helps in removal of water within 25-30 minutes after the rainfall. Instead of using traditional soil, the ground is made of sand which provides good stability. It has modern Flood lights, two international-standard dressing rooms having facilities for steam, sauna and ice bath. Also, a world-class gym has also been set up at this complex.

The Mullanpur Stadium in Chandigarh established in 2021. Since then, it was hosting few domestic matches. After the new construction it will now host the IPL Match of 2024. Furthermore, the international matches will also take place in this stadium soon. The PCA secretary Dilsher Khanna said, “The BCCI has approved the PCA Mullanpur Stadium for the upcoming IPL game on March 23. We are grateful to the BCCI secretary for showing faith in us. We want the fans to enjoy watching the game at the new stadium.”

Briefings of IPL 2024

Indian Premier League or Tata IPL 2024, is a twenty-twenty cricket league in India. The tournament consists of 10 teams, and the IPL Match will be played from 22^nd March to 26^th May 2024. IPL is organized and control by Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The schedule of this season was announced previously.

IPL Chairman Arun Singh Dhumal said, “this season’s schedule will be announced in multiple phases due to the 2024 Lok Sabha Election. The first announcement includes the schedule for the first 17 days, consisting of 21 matches. The opening match of the tournament will be played on 22 March 2024 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai between the defending champions Chennai Super Kings and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The final match will be played on 26 May 2024.” Star Sports Network is the official TV broadcaster of the IPL Match and the official digital broadcaster is JioCinema app and website. The matches will begin at 7:30pm and during the afternoon matches, the timings will be 3:30pm.

Wrapping Thoughts

The IPL has become a global phenomenon, and its future looks amazing. With its constant innovation, focus on technology, and commitment to fair play, the IPL will continue to entertain and inspire millions of fans worldwide. As IPL continues to evolve and grow, it is likely to remain one of the most popular and successful sports leagues in the world. Now let’s wait and watch which team grabs the IPL trophy of 2024.

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