Interactive Workshop-cum-Lecture on "Lifestyle Diseases: Understanding the Need of the Hour" Organised by Department of Gandhian and Peace Studies

Chandigarh, February 23, 2026: The Department of Gandhian and Peace Studies organised an insightful and interactive workshop-cum-lecture titled "Lifestyle Diseases: Understanding the Need of the Hour." The session was delivered by Dr Rupinder Kaur, Chief Medical Officer at Bhai Ghanaiya Ji Institute of Health.
The event aimed to raise awareness about the growing prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases and to emphasise the urgent need for preventive healthcare practices in today's fast-paced world. Faculty members, research scholars, and students actively participated, making it a highly engaging and informative session.
Dr Rupinder Kaur highlighted the major causes of lifestyle diseases, including stress, sedentary habits, unhealthy dietary patterns, lack of physical activity, and substance abuse. She elaborated on common conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and cardiovascular disorders, stressing the importance of early diagnosis and regular health check-ups.
In the session, Dr Rupinder also focused on mental health, emphasising the importance of social interaction, environmental awareness, and the development of intellectual, spiritual, and emotional well-being. She further added that the best way to manage various diseases includes reducing salt, limiting addictions, increasing intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, reducing sugar intake, engaging in regular exercise, managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking.
Drawing connections to Gandhian philosophy, the lecture highlighted the relevance of simple living, balanced diet, mental well-being, and self-discipline as essential pillars of a healthy lifestyle. The speaker encouraged participants to adopt preventive measures such as regular exercise, mindful eating, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques including meditation and yoga.
The interactive segment allowed attendees to raise questions and share concerns regarding daily health management. Dr Kaur addressed these queries with practical suggestions and evidence-based guidance, enhancing participants' understanding of the subject.
Professor Manish Sharma, Head of the Department, expressed gratitude to Dr Rupinder Kaur for her valuable insights and for enlightening the audience on this pertinent issue. The session concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the efforts of the organising team and the enthusiastic participation of attendees.
Participants described the session as enlightening and transformative, noting the actionable techniques and relatable examples shared throughout. The workshop reaffirmed the Department's commitment to promoting holistic education and social awareness by addressing contemporary challenges through the lens of Gandhian thought.