Chandigarh is hosting the 118th All India Mayors' Conference on October 5 and 6, bringing together mayors from cities across the country. The two-day event was inaugurated on Sunday by Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria.

The conference carries the theme "Sashakt Nagar, Viksit Bharat" — empowered cities, developed India. Sessions will focus on planned urban development, cleanliness, green spaces, water management, digital governance and citizen-centric civic services. Special attention is being given to Jan Bhagidari, environmental sustainability, waste-to-resource initiatives and women's participation through Self-Help Groups.

Announcing the event, Chandigarh Mayor Saurabh Joshi said it gives elected representatives of urban local bodies a national platform to share successful initiatives and discuss new approaches to strengthen city governance. Chandigarh will also showcase its own best practices in planned development and digital services.

Home Secretary Mandip Singh Brar reviewed the preparations last week, with the closing session scheduled for October 6. The conference is expected to pass resolutions on strengthening urban local bodies and improving coordination between elected representatives and officials.

Sources: indianewscalling.com.