Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 4: CGC University, Mohali emerged as a vibrant hub of intellectual exchange and cultural celebration with the successful hosting of ‘Sahityam 2026’, its official two-day Literature Festival.
The festival was inaugurated by Nayab Singh Saini, Chief Minister of Haryana, whose presence marked a major milestone for the event. Addressing students and delegates, the Chief Minister emphasized that ‘Viksit Bharat’ is a collective national responsibility rooted in education, youth empowerment, innovation and ethical governance. He highlighted the role of universities as incubators of ideas and platforms like Sahityam in fostering informed discourse, cultural confidence and civic responsibility.
The event was further graced by Dr Kiran Bedi, India’s first woman IPS officer and former LG of Puducherry. In her inspiring address on leadership and public service, she underscored discipline, resilience and ethical values as pillars of national progress. A key highlight was the launch of the Kiran Bedi Leadership Learning Program (KBLL), aimed at nurturing principled and future-ready leaders.
Innovation and entrepreneurship also featured prominently, with several CGC University–incubated startups being recognized for securing prestigious funding. EDS Wagon Tech Private Limited received Rs 10 lakh seed grant from IIT Madras, Techealth Apex Private Limited secured Rs 6.5 lakh from Startup Punjab and SISF, Vidyutam Verde NCESOL Private Limited received Rs 3 lakh from Startup Punjab, while Aasyra was supported by AICTE—reflecting the University’s growing innovation ecosystem.
The festival included a mega book launch and engaging literary discussions featuring author Yash Tiwari, Anish Kanjilal and Pankhuri Gidwani, alongside distinguished voices from governance, media, entrepreneurship and sports. Youth Parliament sessions, panel discussions, open mics and cultural performances highlighted student leadership and participative citizenship.
A special Punjabi panel celebrated regional literature and culture, while musical performances by Afsana Khan and Aadi concluded the festival on a high note.
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