The Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria attended a function “Shaksharta” organised by Bharat Vikas Parishad Charitable Trust, Chandigarh, for the distribution of educational material to needy and meritorious school students. On the occasion, around 450 underprivileged students were provided with school uniforms, bags, stationery and other study material.
Addressing the gathering, the Administrator said that providing educational support to children is not merely an act of charity but a powerful and visionary initiative towards nation building. He emphasized that education is the greatest force for self-confidence, self-respect and self-reliance, and urged students to dream big, remain disciplined and work hard to achieve success in life.
The Administrator appreciated the consistent improvement in the performance of Government Schools in Chandigarh. He informed that Government Schools recorded an overall pass percentage of 87.25 percent in the CBSE Class XII examinations this year, surpassing the national average of 85.2 percent.
He highlighted that 57 students secured above 95 percent marks and 348 students scored above 90 percent, reflecting a significant improvement over last year’s results. He further stated that the Chandigarh Administration is planning structured career counselling initiatives and mobilising support from industrialists and other stakeholders to provide financial assistance and higher education opportunities to deserving students.
The Administrator lauded Bharat Vikas Parishad’s decision to earmark Rs. 25 lakh during 2026-27 for the support of meritorious students. Under the initiative, deserving students of Classes IX, XI and XII securing over 90 percent marks will receive help-books, annual scholarships of Rs. 5,000 and personality development support.
Appreciating the Parishad’s contribution in the fields of education, healthcare and social service since 1987, the Administrator noted that its literacy project has benefited more than 22,000 students over the years. Emphasising inclusive education, he said that true social progress can be achieved only when quality education reaches every section of society. The Administrator further stated that the Chandigarh Administration is fully committed to ensuring quality education for every child and that such collaborative efforts by social organisations significantly strengthen government initiatives.
Among those present on the occasion were Shri Nitish Singla, Director School Education, Chandigarh Administration; Shri Ajay Dutta, President, Bharat Vikas Parishad Charitable Trust; Shri Suresh Jain, National Organisation Secretary, Bharat Vikas Parishad; Shri Ashok Kumar Goyal, Director, Literacy Project; and Shri M.K. Virmani, President, Bharat Vikas Parishad, Chandigarh, along with school students and other dignitaries.