Chandigarh, February 3, 2026: Punjab Governor and Administrator of Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria, on Tuesday described self-defense as an essential life skill that enhances confidence, alertness, and courage. Governor Kataria expressed his views at the valedictory function of a self-defense training workshop held at the Law Auditorium of Punjab University. The workshop, which included 60 BDS students and five faculty members, was organized by the Dr. Harvansh Singh Judge Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Punjab University, in collaboration with the Chandigarh Police's Swayam Self-Defense Training Team.
Speaking at the event, Governor Kataria emphasized that self-defense is not merely a physical skill but a crucial life skill, especially for students and young women.
He said that such training enhances confidence, mental alertness, courage, and the ability to make timely decisions in challenging situations. He stressed the importance of continuous practice through regular physical fitness and workout routines, and the need to make the best use of every minute of one's time. He added that disciplined time management, physical strength, and mental resilience play a vital role in overall personality development.
The Punjab Governor commended the efforts of PU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig, Chandigarh Police Inspector General Pushpendra Kumar, Dental College Principal Dr. Deepak Gupta, and the University administration for promoting holistic education by integrating life skills, self-protection, and discipline with academics.
The Governor expressed confidence that the skills learned during the workshop would help the students lead safer, more confident, disciplined, and self-reliant lives.
On this occasion, Vice-Chancellor Renu Vig said that the university is committed to the holistic development of its students. He mentioned the excellent academic performance of the female students and their parallel focus on sports, yoga, community outreach, and school engagement programs.
Principal Deepak Kumar Gupta said that the aim of this workshop was to prepare the students for life after exams. He said that the workshop had clearly improved the participants' confidence and discipline. He added that personal safety and mental resilience are essential parts of professional education.
Inspector General Pushpendra Kumar and the members of the Swayam team were appreciated for providing practical training, which included safety techniques and response in emergency situations.
The program was attended by the Director, Research and Development Cell, Prof. Meenakshi Goyal, faculty members, representatives from the Chandigarh Police Swayam team, and dental students. Dr. Suruchi delivered the vote of thanks and described the workshop as a step towards lifelong confidence and self-reliance for the students.