Demonstrating exceptional prowess in urban and regional planning, Guru Nanak Dev University’s Guru Ramdas School of Planning (GRDSP) has secured a remarkable triumph in the latest recruitment drive by the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC). Out of 20 candidates, an impressive 18 graduates from GRDSP were shortlisted for the coveted positions of Assistant Town Planners within the Government of Punjab’s Town and Country Planning Department.
Professor Ashwani Luthra, Head of GRDSP, lauded the outstanding achievement, emphasizing the school’s commitment to producing top-tier professionals dedicated to the structured development of Punjab’s urban and rural landscapes. “Our graduates consistently excel, reflecting the high-quality education and comprehensive training they receive at GRDSP,” he stated.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Jaspal Singh Sandhu extended his heartfelt congratulations to the successful candidates, urging them to channel their skills and dedication towards societal advancement. “As our world rapidly urbanizes, the demand for skilled Urban, Regional, Infrastructure, and Transport Planners will surge. I am confident that our graduates are well-prepared to meet these challenges and contribute significantly to Punjab’s growth,” he remarked.
GRDSP, with over five decades of legacy, stands as North India’s premier institute for urban and regional planning education. Its alumni network spans across public and private sectors, with many holding senior positions such as Chief Town Planners and Senior Town Planners in various states’ planning departments, municipal corporations, and improvement trusts. Additionally, GRDSP graduates have made their mark internationally, occupying influential roles in environmental, transport, tourism, and real estate development sectors worldwide.
Professor Luthra highlighted the university’s sustained efforts to enhance academic and research excellence over the past eight years. “We have invested in state-of-the-art infrastructure and fostered an environment that promotes high-quality teaching, research, and extracurricular activities. Our research impact is evident from our H-index improvement from 64 to 150, with numerous top 10 percent highly cited papers in Scopus,” he explained.
Guru Nanak Dev University has also achieved significant recognition on the global stage. It ranks among the top 23% of universities worldwide for Best Value for International Students, according to Study Abroad Aide, and is placed within the top 9.3% of global universities by the Centre for World University Rankings in 2024. The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) has awarded GNDU an “A++” grade with a CGPA of 3.85 out of 4, and the University Grants Commission (UGC) has designated it as a “University with Potential for Excellence.”
Beyond academics, GNDU’s vibrant presence in national and international sports and cultural events has bolstered its reputation, making it a sought-after institution across diverse geographies.
The faculty of GRDSP extended their warm congratulations to the newly selected Assistant Town Planners, expressing confidence in their ability to excel in their roles and contribute to Punjab’s comprehensive development. As GNDU continues to set benchmarks in education and professional excellence, its graduates are poised to drive meaningful change in the region’s urban and rural planning landscape.
