The Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, conducted surprise visits to three institutions in Chandigarh to review facilities and services. The visits reflect the Administration’s commitment to better healthcare, inclusive care for vulnerable persons, and improved animal welfare in Chandigarh.
He first visited the Government Medical College and Hospital Sector-32 (GMCH-32) and inspected the Emergency and Trauma Block. He went to triage, surgical, medicine and paediatrics emergency wards and interacted with patients, most of whom expressed satisfaction with the treatment.
He also checked the blood collection centre, ultrasound room, and was briefed about the emergency operation theatres. The Administrator then visited the Group Home Sector 31 and reviewed its functioning. The Group Home provides care and rehabilitation support to persons with mental illness, intellectual disability, and autism spectrum disorder.
He inspected the facility, interacted with residents and staff, and reviewed the admissions process. He appreciated the efforts to maintain a safe and supportive environment and directed that awareness and outreach be increased so more eligible beneficiaries can use the facility.
Later, he visited the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Sector-38 (SPCA-38). He reviewed cleanliness and upkeep, inspected areas for dogs, cats, and birds, and enquired about the treatment of injured and sick animals. He also sought details regarding the management of aggressive dogs and stressed the need for proper Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). He directed regular inspections and strengthened monitoring to improve animal care.
The visits were accompanied by senior officers Shri V. P. Singh, Principal Secretary to the Governor of Punjab, Shri Mandip Singh Brar, Secretary, Medical Education & Research at GMCH-32; Amit Kumar, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation at SPCA-38; Ms. Anuradha Chagti, Secretary Social Welfare and Ms. Palika Arora, Director, Department of Social Welfare, Women & Child Development at Group Home Sector-31.