Punjab Governor and UT Chandigarh Administrator Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria today described self-defence as an essential life skill that builds confidence, alertness and courage.

Sh. Kataria was addressing the valedictory ceremony of a self-defence training workshop at Panjab University Law Auditorium. As many as 60 BDS students and five faculty members attended the workshop, which was organised by Dr Harvansh Singh Judge Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Panjab University, in collaboration with the Swayam Self-Defence Training Team of Chandigarh Police.

Addressing the function, the Governor Sh. Kataria emphasised that self-defense is not merely a physical skill but an essential life skill, particularly for students and young women. He stated that such training enhances self-confidence, mental alertness, courage, and the ability to take timely decisions in challenging situations. He further highlighted the importance of continuous practice through regular physical fitness and workout routines, and stressed the need for the better use of every minute of one’s time, noting that disciplined time management plays a crucial role in building physical strength, mental resilience, and overall personality development.

The Punjab Governor appreciated the efforts of PU Vice Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig, Inspector General, Chandigarh Police, Shri Pushpendra Kumar, Principal Dr. Deepak Gupta, and the university administration for promoting holistic education by integrating life skills, personal safety, and discipline with academics. The Governor expressed confidence that the skills acquired during the workshop would empower students to lead safer, more confident, disciplined, and self-reliant lives.

PU Vice Chancellor Renu Vig said the university remained committed to holistic development of students. She referred to the strong academic performance of women students and the parallel focus on sports, yoga, community outreach and school engagement programmes.

Principal of the Dental Institute Deepak Kumar Gupta said the aim was to prepare students for life beyond examinations. He said the workshop had led to visible improvement in confidence and discipline among participants and that personal safety and mental resilience were integral to professional education..

Inspector General Pushpendra Kumar and members of the Swayam team were acknowledged for imparting practical training, including defensive techniques and responses to emergency situations.

The event was attended by PU Director, Research and Development Cell, Prof. Meenakshi Goyal, faculty members, representatives of the Chandigarh Police Swayam team; and dental students.

Dr Suruchi proposed the vote of thanks and described the workshop as a step towards lifelong confidence and self-reliance among students.