UK LAUNCHES VISA FRAUD AWARENESS CAMPAIGN ‘VISA FRAUD TON BACHO’

School News Network
Chandigarh, March 01 2025

The UK Government has launched the ‘Visa Fraud Ton Bacho’ campaign to help protect Indian citizens from the physical, financial, and emotional risks of visa fraud and irregular migration.

The campaign includes a new dedicated WhatsApp support line (+91 70652 51380) in English and Punjabi. This will help to identify common visa scam tactics and providing access to official guidance for those seeking legal routes to travel to the UK.

The campaign was launched at the Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Jalandhar in the presence of LPU Chancellor and Member of Parliament from Rajya Sabha, Dr Ashok Kumar Mittal.

Alongside the WhatsApp line, the campaign will highlight the warning signs of visa scams. 

People will be advised to look out for the common spurious claims such as the 

• Promise of jobs in the UK,

• No requirement for English-language tests (IELTS), and 

• Exorbitant fees. 

Visa fraud leads to unacceptable and unnecessary levels of debt and puts people at risk of physical harm and exploitation. A person found committing visa fraud could receive a 10-year ban on travel to the UK. Under the Mobility and Migration Partnership Agreement, the UK and India have a shared commitment to tackling irregular migration. The campaign represents a further element of joint efforts to step up the fight against irregular migration and visa fraud.

Christina Scott, British Deputy High Commissioner to India, said: “The opportunity to visit, study, and work in the UK has never been greater and Indian nationals continue to receive the largest share of UK visit and work visas. However, young peoples’ dreams are being exploited, and too many are becoming victims of visa fraud. That’s why we are launching the Visa Fraud Ton Bacho campaign. The campaign seeks to raise awareness of the risks and help people to check the facts on safe and legal routes to the UK.”  

Caroline Rowett, British Deputy High Commissioner Chandigarh, said: “Punjab is known for its hardworking and ambitious people who have made significant contributions both in the UK and globally. We want to ensure that these dreams are fulfilled safely and legally. We urge people to spread the ‘Visa Fraud Ton Bacho’ message and help protect individuals from falling victim to fraudulent agents.”

Under the Visa Fraud Ton Bacho campaign, outreach activities will be conducted in and around Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Chandigarh to make people aware of potential scams while applying for visas. 

Indian nationals now receive almost a quarter of all UK visas worldwide and the UK is expected to issue approximately 1 million visas this year. 

February has also marked the third year of the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme, which has increased opportunities for internships and cultural exchanges in both the countries. 

Smiling Kiddies have a day Fun with Shapes

School News Network
Zirakpur, February 27, 2025

Smiling Kiddies playway school organised "Fun with Shapes" in which Kids had a blast learning about shapes through a variety of engaging activities.

 Senior Kiddies explored symmetry with game shapes, Junior Kiddies conquered paper plate puzzles and shape-themed hopscotch, Playgroup sorted shapes, and Nursery matched shapes and played roll & hop shape games. 

This activity made learning about shapes fun and accessible for all!

UK PRIME MINISTER HOSTS INDIAN BUSINESS LEADERS AT DOWNING STREET

School News Network 
Mohali, December 18 2024

The Prime Minister has hosted a group of Indian investors and CEOs to harness perspectives on opportunities for investment and economic growth between the UK and India.

The visit follows the Prime Minister’s meeting with Prime Minister Modi at the G20 where they committed to take forward an ambitious UK-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with collaboration opportunities on economic growth, security and defence, technology, climate, health, and education.

The delegation, supported by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), discussed deepening the bilateral partnership with the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves and Foreign Secretary David Lammy. Secretary of State Jonathan Reynolds and Minister of State Douglas Alexander also met with the delegation to discuss opportunities under a UK-India trade deal.

With total trade already worth £42 billion and supporting over 600,000 jobs across both economies, the UK and India are negotiating a trade deal that can further economic growth and deliver on the Prime Minister’s plan for Change.

Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer said: “India is a vital partner for the UK and we have huge ambition to unlock more opportunities together, building on our already strong relationship. I’m delighted to welcome some of India’s most senior business leaders to Downing Street and to outline the UK’s ambitious focus on economic growth and innovation.”

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “As one of the most globally connected economies in the G20, the UK provides unmatched opportunities for Indian businesses to thrive.

“India already accounts for the second highest number of FDI projects into the UK, and this Government is committed to deepening our trade and investment links with India even further. 

“Boosting investment is a mission at the heart of this government. It was great to hear first-hand from Indian business leaders on why so many of them have given us a vote of confidence and chosen to invest here.” 

Sunil Bharti Mittal KBE, Leader of the Delegation, Past President, CII and Founder and Chairman, Bharti Enterprises said: “This business delegation comes at a pivotal moment, as India stands as the fastest-growing large economy and is on track to become a USD 5 trillion economy by 2027. Over time, India-UK relations have developed into a robust, multifaceted partnership built on historical ties, economic synergy, and increasing geopolitical alignment.

“The India-UK Free Trade Agreement negotiations present significant opportunities for mutual growth and cooperation. We are optimistic that this delegation will pave the way for numerous successful business collaborations. We shall seek guidance from Prime Minister Starmer on the sectors that may exhibit better collaboration opportunities.”

The delegation finished the day at an evening reception hosted by the High Commission of India in London.

Veteran Photo-Journalist showcase colours of London

School News Network 
United Kingdom

The Veteran Photo-Journalist, Sumit Malhotra from Chandigarh who served a decade into Newspaper photography shared his vision across the border from United Kingdom by showing us images of Autumn, winter and Colours of London. 

Smiling Kiddies Playway School celebrates Annual Day

School News Network
Zirakpur, December 08 2024

Smiling Kiddies Playway School's Annual Day 2024-25 was a vibrant celebration of joy and creativity. The event began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by a captivating Ganesh Vandana and a warm welcome performance. Students showcased their talents through diverse performances, captivating the audience with their enthusiasm. 

The parents' ramp walk stood out, offering a platform for creativity and style. The vibrant Bhangra performance energized the crowd and celebrated cultural heritage. The day was a heartfelt celebration of talent, togetherness and joy, leaving everyone with unforgettable memories.

Shemrock School Celebrates Grandparents Day with Love and Joy

School News Network
Mohali, October 07 2024

Shemrock School, Sector-69, Mohali, celebrated Grandparents Day with great enthusiasm, creating a heartwarming atmosphere for students and their families. The event was organized to honor and express affection for the students' grandparents, with the children’s maternal and paternal grandparents actively participating in the celebrations.

The highlight of the event was a cultural program dedicated to the grandparents, which commenced with a beautiful welcome song expressing gratitude. Students performed a variety of entertaining songs and dances, including popular tunes such as "Grandpa darling, grandma darling I love you," "Muchh wale dada golmol daadi," and "Dadi amma dadi amma maan jao." Traditional Bhangra and Giddha dances also delighted the audience, showcasing the students' talent and adding a touch of regional flavor to the celebrations.

Fun-filled activities like musical chairs, balloon balancing, and passing the parcel were organized, keeping the grandparents engaged and entertained throughout the day. These games became the centerpiece of the event, bringing smiles and laughter to all.

Principal Parneet Sohal praised the role grandparents play in the lives of children, saying, “What children need most are the essentials that grandparents provide in abundance: unconditional love, patience, comfort, and life lessons. The lucky ones get the chance to stay with their grandparents.” She also commended the efforts of the staff and students for organizing such a memorable event.

CGC Jhanjeri campus signs MoU with Westcliffe University USA

School News Network 
Mohali, September 30 2024

This Agreement Includes academic exchange, joint research projects and sharing of innovative academic initiatives

Chandigarh Group of Colleges Jhanjeri Campus has entered into agreement with Westcliff University, University of California, USA. Under the leadership of MD Arsh Dhaliwal of CGC Jhanjeri, this agreement signed in California will be an important milestone in the expansion of educational directions in the global partnership of Jhanjeri campus. The MoU, signed by Managing Director Arsh Dhaliwal during his official visit to the US, reinforces the institution's mission to provide world-class educational opportunities to its students.

The agreement between Jhanjeri Campus and Westcliffe University will promote academic exchange, joint research projects, and innovative academic initiatives between the two campuses. This partnership unites two academic powerhouses—India and the United States—creating a dynamic environment of innovation, cross-cultural learning, and academic excellence converge. Apart from that ,students will benefit from exposure to cutting-edge research, new technologies, and diverse perspectives, preparing them for the evolving global job market. Along with this, a series of informative workshops, seminars and interactive sessions will be started jointly. These sessions are designed to empower students, faculty and staff with the necessary skills and insights to embark on their entrepreneurial journey.

On this occasion, CGC MD Arsh Dhaliwal shared his views that Jhanjeri Campus's partnership with Westcliffe University is more than just a collaboration, with a commitment to prepare the next generation of entrepreneurs. He further said that both the organizations are keen to bring the best and experienced managers and engineers of the country through shared insights and guidance. He further added that such efforts are made for practical exposure by Jhanjeri Campus to achieve the best learning and placement before obtaining the degree. This will prove to be an important milestone in the life of the students.

Chairman of CGC Jhanjeri Campus Rashpal Singh Dhaliwal while sharing information said that under the leadership MD Arsh Dhaliwal, Jhanjeri Campus has signed contracts with the best universities of the world for the best future of students. MD Arsh Dhaliwal, Jhanjeri campus is preparing the students for international level competitions in the field of technology and education.

Chairman Dhaliwal further added that this alliance between CGC Jhanjeri Campus and Westcliffe University is poised to set new benchmarks in education, research and technological innovation, thereby further enhancing their contribution to academia and society at large.

Fresher’s Party ‘Aagaman-24’ organized at GJIMT

School News Network 
Mohali 30 September 2024

Gian Jyoti Institute of Management and Technology, Phass 2 welcomed its fresher’s under the theme ‘Aagaman-19’ a delight for the fresher’s at its campus. The seniors’ students welcomed their fresh inmates by offering them a grand gala cultural event. J.S.Bedi, Chairman, Gian Jyoti Group presided over the event. The inaugural ceremony started by seeking the blessings of Goddess Saraswati and lighting of the lamp. After the lamp lighting ceremony J.S.Bedi, Chairman gave his blessings to the new students and welcomed them into the GJIMT family.

A series of stunning performances followed, with the Girl Gang delivering a powerful dance performance, followed by the electrifying Fearless Fusion and Aura Blenders, who captivated the audience with their seamless choreography and energy. A Dance Battle between competing teams added an extra layer of excitement to the festivities. One of the most anticipated highlights of the event was the UG/PG Fresher Ramp Walk, where students walked the ramp with confidence and style.

Bhavpreet Kaur from BCA was crowned as Ms. Fresher whereas Gurleen Singh from BCA was selected as Mr. Fresher in under graduation. Vanshika Soni from MBA was selected as Ms. Fresher & Pratham Kumar from MBA was selected as Mr. Fresher in Post-graduation stream. Shivam Kumar BBA from UG and Charles MBA from PG selected as Mr. Handsome. Rupanpreet Kaur B.Com from UG and Daman MCA from PG capture the crown of Ms. Elegant.

The ceremony saw many dazzling performances both by seniors and juniors by way of energetic dances that made the day more charming. Modeling rounds were there, where juniors suppressed their feelings and introduced themselves. Dr. Aneet Bedi, Director, Gian Jyoti Institute of Management and Technology decoded Mr. Gian Jyoti and Ms. Gian Jyoti and encouraged the students to be participated during their journey at GJIMT. To develop their hidden talent this will help them in their professional career in the days ahead.

KHARGA SAPPERS CONDUCT COMBAT ENGINEERING OPERATIONAL TRAINING

School News Network 
Chandigarh, May 13, 2024

Kharga Sappers carried out a month long extensive exercise in various Army training bases in UP for execution of operations in simulated battle conditions. Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, GOC - in - C Western Command witnessed the training exercise and commended the participating troops of Kharga Sappers for their professional excellence and efforts towards incorporating the latest technology.

 

The aim of the exercise was to hone skills and enhance operational efficiency of Composite Task Forces, in order to overcome natural and man made obstacles and thereby facilitate strike corps operations during war. New generation technologies and equipment were integrated and validated during the training to enhance operational effectiveness.

Equipment such as Full Width Mine Plough with multi roller assembly for breeching of mine fields, drones with day and night capability for reconnaissance, modular bridges, anti drone system and command and control systems were validated.

 

This is worth mentioning that the Sappers provide close combat engineering support to offensive operations, which require rigorous training during peace time.

Smiling Kiddies celebrates Mother's Day

School News Network
Zirakpur, May 12, 2024

Smiling Kiddies Playway School celebrated Mother's Day with great enthusiasm, creativity, and love. The air was filled with the sweet aroma of mothers' favorite dishes, along with the delightful sight of children dressed in their mothers' preferred attire. 

The daycare kids put their hearts into crafting beautiful cards decorated with their tiny handprints, while the play group class dedicated themselves to creating crowns as beautiful as their mothers' love. Meanwhile, Nursery, Junior Kiddies, and Senior Kiddies displayed their artistic talents with vibrant paper flowers, intricate paper hangings, and charming bouquets. It was a heartfelt tribute, showcasing the profound love and appreciation these children hold for their mothers.

Smiling Kiddies Playway School celebrated Earth Day

School News Network
Zirakpur, April 23 2024

Smiling Kiddies Playway School marked Earth Day with immense zeal and excitement. The children engaged in a range of activities to commemorate the occasion. The Play Group class creatively adorned trees with pasted leaves, while the Nursery class undertook a water cleaning initiative. 

Junior Kiddies participated in an Earth Day sorting activity, thoroughly enjoying the experience. The Senior Kiddies enthusiastically planted trees, demonstrating a keen interest in environmental conservation. Additionally, the children conveyed messages urging the protection of our planet through vibrant banners, making the day a joyful and impactful celebration of Earth Day.

Smiling Kiddies Playway School created SKPS Bird Park

School News Network
Zirakpur, 03 March 2024

Initiated by Smiling Kiddies Playway School, the creation of SKPS Bird Park aimed to foster a profound connection between children and the natural world.

Kiddies enjoying at newly created SKPS bird park.

Its primary objective was to provide children with an immersive experience, enabling them to observe various bird species, explore their nests, and embrace the enchanting beauty of nature. As children stepped into SKPS Bird Park, they were greeted by a vibrant environment bustling with our feathered companions. With tickets in hand, they eagerly embarked on their journey, accompanied by their teachers who enlightened them about the diverse bird species, their unique features, sounds, and feeding habits. 

Throughout their exploration, the children joyously imitated bird calls and adorned themselves in various bird costumes, fully immersing themselves in the captivating world of birds.

Indus Public School organized the Annual Sports Day

School News Network

Mohali, February 26, 2024

Indus Public School organized its annual sporting event with colourful pomp and show on its lush green campus. Each tiny tot participated in at least one event. Participants exhibited their talents with the sportsmanship spirit to fight to the finish amidst cheers from their parents, teachers, and friends.

The day commenced with a show of color and energy brought on by the Pom-pom dance, Ball drill, and movement exercises with a parachute, all of which were performed by students of the pre-primary wing. The little enthusiasts took part in various track and field races, which included the Ball race, Run pick and place race, Sprint, Bean Bag Balancing, and Tricycle races.

Students also presented Yoga, Gymnastics, Taekwondo, Trampoline, and Zumba along with a music performance. Parents also participated in a game organized for them. The function came to an end with a Tug of War and a prize distribution ceremony. The events concluded with a Prize Distribution ceremony for the winners of all races. In shot put 8th class girls Harshita, Navpreet Kaur & Harshita Thakur Bags are in the first three positions. While in the boy’s category, Aaryan was first, Jobanpreet Singh & Pranav bagged second & third positions. In the long jump, 7th-class boys Ekamdeep Singh, Jony & Sumit captured first, second & third positions. In Girl's long jump, 7th class Sheenu, Kanchan, and Baljinder Kaur bag the first three positions. In a 200-meter race, 6th class girls Taranpreet Kaur, Parneet Kaur & Kanishka captured three positions. In the 7th class boys 100m race Agampreet Singh, Tanpreet Singh & Shaurya Rana were in First, Second & third positions. In the 8th class boys 100 m race Nishya, Pranav & Jaskirat Singh bag the position.

Director Colonel (Ret.) SPS Cheema congratulated the winners and emphasized that sports are an integral part of the curriculum in the school and should be given due importance throughout the session.

School Principal Parampreet Kaur Cheema emphasized the importance of finding one’s element through participation in sporting events and other areas of interest in the school as well as at home

STEM activities organised at Smiling Kiddies Playway School

School News Network
Zirakpur, August 06 2023

Fostering Scientific Exploration through Interactive STEM Activities at Smiling Kiddies Playway School. The kids had a blast engaging in science experiments, immersing themselves in hands-on learning and unravelling the wonders of different scientific concepts. 

From the mesmerizing Rainbow experiment to water absorption, lava, and pepper & soap experiments, they had fun and developed valuable scientific skills applicable to their daily lives. Encouraged to explore and question, they embarked on a thrilling scientific journey, making delightful discoveries every step of the way.

Hawaiian Camp organised by Smiling Kiddies Playway School

School News Network
Zirakpur, June 17 2023

Smiling Kiddies Playway School organized an unforgettable Hawaiian Summer Camp, spanning 12 days. The camp provided a perfect blend of activities to nurture independence, self-confidence, socialization, and skill development. 

Children engaged in art & craft, pottery, cooking without fire and received valuable education on good touch/bad touch through a seminar on I-care. The camp also featured a thrilling Aloha splash pool party and culminated with the distribution of participation certificates. It truly was an incredible experience for all the kids involved.

Smiling Kiddies organiaed Jurassic World Activity

School News Network
Zirakpur, March 21 2023

Smiling Kiddies Playway School recently organized a Jurassic World activity that allowed young students to take a step back in time and explore the prehistoric world of dinosaurs. This unique learning experience was both exciting and informative, allowing children to learn about early times and extinct species in a fun and engaging way.

The kids were thrilled and excited to enter the world of dinosaurs and explore different types of fascinating creatures. Teachers at the school depicted all aspects of early times, providing an informative and educational experience for young students.

One of the highlights of the event was the dinosaur wearables that the kids wore. They looked fascinating and added to the overall experience. The children also played various games related to the theme, such as Tricera toss, Dino footprint hop, Pin the horn on the Triceratops, and Feed the T-Rex dinosaur, which made the event even more enjoyable for them.

INDIA is First Port of call for UK Ship in INDIAN OCEAN

School News Network
United Kingdom, January 07 2023

The Royal Navy’s offshore patrol vessel, HMS Tamar, sails to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands today [6 January] as part of its permanent deployment in the Indo-Pacific. Over the next five days, the ship and her crew will undertake capability demonstrations and maritime exercises with the Indian Navy.

HMS Tamar is one of two Royal Navy vessels on permanent deployment in the Indo-Pacific as set out in the UK’s Integrated Review. The ship’s visit to India is an opportunity to further strengthen the shared maritime domain awareness effort, and underlines the UK’s and India’s intent to collaborate in the Indian Ocean Region and wider Indo-Pacific.

 

First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Ben Key, said: “I am delighted that HMS Tamar is visiting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands this week, during her first time sailing in the Indian Ocean. The opportunity to engage with the local community and conduct training and exercises with the Indian Navy is hugely valuable.

 

“The work HMS Tamar and her crew are doing with allies, partners and friends across the Indo-Pacific is crucial. As threats to global peace and stability mount, the Royal Navy values deeply its relationship with the Indian Navy in a shared endeavour to confront those who challenge the rules-based system and ensure peace and prosperity on and from the sea.”

 

Royal Navy offshore patrol vessel HMS Tamar

Acting British High Commissioner to India, Christina Scott, said: “HMS Tamar’s deployment is the UK’s Indo-Pacific tilt in action; its visit, further evidence of the importance we attach to our defence and security relationship with India.

 

“The Indo-Pacific, and indeed India, will drive future growth and prosperity for the world. It is imperative that it remains free and open to all in support of trade, shared security and values.”

Smiling Kiddies celebrated Christmas

School News Network
Zirakpur, December 25 2022

Smiling Kiddies Playway School celebrated Christmas with great vitality. The school campus was decorated beautifully. Kiddies were in Santa's dress and spread merriment everywhere. Some kiddies were arrayed in red and white dress. 

They  performed different activities like painting, cotton pasting on pine cones. Junior Kiddies & Senior Kiddies kids enjoyed various games like snowman bowling, penguin waddle, balloon by balloon etc. They also vocalised mellifluous carols and danced gloriously on the special occasion.  The boundless joy of celebrating the festival was evident on the faces of little ones.

Smiling Kiddies Playway School celebrated Dussehra

School News Network
Zirakpur, October 06 2022

Smiling kiddies celebrated "Dussehra" with lots of religious zeal and ardour. Kiddies came dressed up as different characters of Ramayana and were very excited. Senior Kiddies & Juni

or Kiddies little stars performed Ramlila with great zeal. 

Playgroup & Nursery Kiddies made little Ravana with paper craft in their files. Everyone around enjoyed the serene atmosphere & the whole campus reverberated with the sound of 'Jai Shri Ram'.