Nayab Singh Saini inaugurates SAHITYAM 2026 at CGC University Mohali
Babushahi Network
Mohali, February 6, 2026: CGC University, Mohali, witnessed an extraordinary celebration of literature, leadership, and national vision with Sahityam 2026, its official Literature Festival, an intellectually vibrant gathering that seamlessly wove together thought, art, policy, and performance under the overarching ethos of Viksit Bharat.
The festival was ceremoniously inaugurated by Nayab Singh Saini Chief Minister of Haryana, whose presence marked a defining moment for Sahityam 2026. In his address, the Chief Minister underscored the vision of Viksit Bharat as a collective national endeavour, one that places education, youth leadership, innovation, and ethical governance at its core. Emphasising the role of academic institutions as crucibles of ideas and nation-building, he highlighted how platforms such as Sahityam nurture informed dialogue, cultural confidence, and civic consciousness, essential pillars in India’s journey towards becoming a developed, inclusive, and globally influential nation. The formal launch of the festival by the Chief Minister symbolised the alignment of intellectual discourse with national progress.
Gracing the occasion with her distinguished presence was Dr. Kiran Bedi, IPS (Retd.), India’s first woman IPS officer and former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, whose address offered profound insights into leadership, discipline, and public service. Her reflections resonated deeply with the values of Viksit Bharat, reinforcing the need for integrity-driven leadership and citizen participation in shaping a resilient democracy. A landmark moment of the day was the launch of the Kiran Bedi Leadership Learning Program (KBLL), a transformative initiative aimed at nurturing principled, future-ready leaders.
Strengthening its innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem, Sahityam 2026 also spotlighted the success of CGC University, Mohali, incubated startups that secured prestigious funding support. EDS Wagon Tech Pvt. Ltd. received a ₹10 lakh seed grant from IIT Madras, Techealth Apex Pvt. Ltd. secured ₹6.5 lakh from Startup Punjab, the Punjab State Council for Science & Technology, and SISF, while Vidyutam Verde NCESOL Pvt. Ltd. and Aasyra received funding support from Startup Punjab and AICTE respectively, reinforcing the University’s role in fostering innovation-driven nation-building under the vision of Viksit Bharat.
Day 1 of Sahityam 2026 also witnessed a mega book launch, celebrating literature as both conscience and catalyst of societal transformation. Renowned author Yash Tiwari, along with eminent literary voices including Anish Kanjilal and Pankhuri Gidwani, contributed to compelling conversations that explored identity, ambition, governance, and the evolving role of narrative in contemporary India.
The festival was further enriched by the presence of distinguished dignitaries such as Ashok Kumar, IPS (Retd.), former DGP of Uttarakhand and Vice Chancellor, Sports University of Haryana; Navjyot Randhawa, Editor and Presenter associated with GNT, Aaj Tak, and India Today; Umang Jindal, CEO, Homeland Group; and Ashish Kumar Chaudhary, Indian International Boxer and Olympian, each offering nuanced perspectives across governance, media, entrepreneurship, and sport.
Complementing its intellectual depth, Sahityam 2026 unfolded as a vibrant cultural tapestry featuring panel discussions, debate competitions, open mic sessions, and dance competitions, offering students dynamic platforms for expression and exchange. The day concluded with an electrifying evening of performances by Punjabi music sensation Afsana Khan, whose powerful vocals and commanding stage presence brought the festival to a stirring and celebratory close.
Speaking on the occasion, Rashpal Singh Dhaliwal, Father of Education, Chancellor, CGC University, Mohali, remarked,
“Viksit Bharat is not merely an economic aspiration; it is an intellectual and ethical mission. Through Sahityam, we strive to nurture minds that think critically, act responsibly, and lead India forward with wisdom and purpose.”
Echoing this vision, Arsh Dhaliwal, Managing Director, CGC University, Mohali, stated, “Sahityam 2026 reflects our belief that education must extend beyond classrooms. By bringing together policymakers, thinkers, artists, and young voices, we are fostering a living dialogue that mirrors India’s aspirations and prepares future leaders for a confident, progressive nation.”
All in all Day 1 of Sahityam 2026 emerged not merely as a literature festival, but as a national conversation, one that celebrated ideas, honoured leadership, amplified youth voices, and reaffirmed CGC University, Mohali’s commitment to shaping an enlightened, inclusive, and forward-looking India.