Department of Biosciences at Chandigarh University receives a grant of ₹11-Lakh from Punjab Biodiversity Board; 100 Heritage Trees in Kharar already Mapped

CHANDIGARH, India, Aug. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As rapid urbanization and infrastructure expansion continue to threaten centuries-old trees of ecological, cultural and religious significance, the need for a systematic scientific approach for their identification and conservation has become essential. Taking a significant step towards the scientific conservation of heritage trees, Chandigarh University has launched an initiative to identify, document and conserve ecologically, religiously and culturally significant tree species across SAS Nagar (Mohali) district.

The project will establish the district’s first comprehensive GIS-based database of heritage trees, providing a scientific foundation for evidence-based management and long-term conservation planning while protecting invaluable natural assets for future generations.

The ₹11-lakh project, funded and sanctioned by the Punjab Biodiversity Board (PBB) under the National Biodiversity Authority is being implemented by the Department of Biosciences at the University Institute of Biotechnology (UIBT), Chandigarh University.

Led by Prof (Dr) LK Attri, Head of the Department of Biosciences, along with Dr Shailika Sharma, Assistant Professor, the initiative combines field surveys with advanced Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies to scientifically map and assess heritage trees across the district.

Sharing details about the project, Prof (Dr) LK Attri, Head of the Department of Biosciences, Chandigarh University said, “The project is primarily aimed at documenting the present status of heritage trees, including their ecological, cultural and religious significance, through GIS-based digital tagging, geospatial mapping and assessment of key characteristics such as height, trunk diameter, health, biomass and carbon sequestration potential. By integrating field observations with geospatial technologies, the initiative will generate reliable scientific data to support long-term conservation and environmental planning. The project idea was conceived and executed in collaboration and support of Dr Gurharminder Singh, Principal Scientific Officer, Punjab Biodiversity Board.”

Prof Attri further added, “Beyond the documentation part, this project is aimed at establishing a heritage trees list for Mohali highlighting mature trees of exceptional ecological, historical, religious and cultural importance. The database will help government agencies and local authorities prioritize conservation measures including protecting root zones from excavation and soil compaction, monitor tree health and implement preventive interventions such as lightning protection for vulnerable heritage trees.”

Notably, the project has already documented more than 100 heritage trees across Kharar Tehsil, the largest tehsil in SAS Nagar (43.5 per cent) of the district’s geographical area. Using advanced Remote Sensing and GIS technologies, the identified trees are being scientifically classified, geotagged and assessed for their height, trunk diameter, biomass and carbon sequestration potential to build a reliable geo-spatial database for long-term conservation. A dedicated team of research fellows is carrying out extensive field surveys, documentation, geotagging, GIS mapping and spatial analysis of heritage trees.

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Dr Attri, who is the Principal Investigator, said, “Heritage trees are living symbols of our environmental, cultural and spiritual legacy. Many of these trees have survived for decades and in some cases centuries providing ecological services while remaining deeply connected with local traditions and communities. Through scientific mapping and documentation, we aim to create a strong knowledge base that will support evidence-based conservation and encourage society to recognize and protect these invaluable natural assets.”

The project is expected to deliver multiple public benefits extending well beyond biodiversity conservation. The geo-spatial database can be instrumental in assisting government agencies in environmental resource management, sustainable urban and rural development planning and climate resilience initiatives. By estimating the biomass and carbon sequestration potential of heritage trees, the study will also provide valuable insights into the role of mature trees in mitigating climate change and maintaining healthy ecological balance.

Moreover, the initiative further highlights the importance of preserving trees that hold religious and cultural significance for local communities, ensuring that conservation efforts protect not only biodiversity but also Punjab’s rich social and cultural heritage.

Emphasizing the role of technology in conservation, Dr. Shailika Sharma, Co-Principal Investigator, said, “Modern geospatial technologies allow us to understand our natural resources with far greater accuracy and efficiency. By combining field-based scientific surveys with GIS mapping, we are creating a digital resource that can support informed policy decisions, conservation planning and community awareness. We hope this initiative inspires greater public participation in protecting heritage trees and the ecosystems they sustain.”

By combining scientific research with advanced geospatial technologies, Chandigarh University’s heritage tree mapping initiative is creating an important foundation for biodiversity conservation, climate action and sustainable development. The project demonstrates how technology-driven environmental research can help protect Punjab’s natural heritage while supporting evidence-based planning and encouraging greater public awareness about the need to protect the state’s irreplaceable ecological treasures.

“Many of the documented heritage trees, including Peepal, Banyan and Neem are valued not only for their ecological services such as improving air quality, supporting biodiversity and storing carbon, but also for their deep cultural, religious and medicinal significance. For generations, these trees have served as community gathering spaces while continuing to play an important role in traditional healthcare, local livelihoods and environmental sustainability. We also intend to prepare a comprehensive Heritage Tree List for Mohali, a coffee table book highlighting the ecological, cultural and religious significance of these trees, and a web-based GIS platform to make this valuable information accessible to researchers, policymakers and the public,” added Dr. Shailika.

About Chandigarh University

Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC.

Website address: https://www.cuchd.in/

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TAIPEI, Aug. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd. (TAIEX: 2412, NYSE: CHT) (“Chunghwa” or “the Company”) today reported its un-audited operating results for the second quarter of 2026. All figures were prepared in accordance with Taiwan-International Financial Reporting Standards (“T-IFRSs”) on a consolidated basis.

(Comparisons throughout the press release, unless otherwise stated, are made with regard to the prior year period.)

Second Quarter 2026 Financial Highlights

Total revenue increased by 8.2% to NT$ 61.36 billion.Consumer Business Group revenue increased by 4.8% to NT$ 35.73 billion.Enterprise Business Group revenue increased by 3.7% to NT$ 19.68 billion.International Business Group revenue increased by 78.9% to NT$ 3.93 billion.Total operating costs and expenses increased by 8.9% to NT$ 48.10 billion.Operating income increased by 5.7% to NT$ 13.26 billion.EBITDA increased by 4.1% to NT$ 23.52 billion.Net income attributable to stockholders of the parent increased by 4.7% to NT$ 10.64 billion.Basic earnings per share (EPS) was NT$1.38.Total revenue, operating income, net income attributable to stockholders of the parent, and EPS all exceeded the high-end target of quarterly guidance.

“We delivered a solid second quarter and first half, with revenue, operating income, net income attributable to stockholders of the parent, and EPS all exceeding the high ends of our guidance for both periods. Total revenue reached a second-quarter record since 2010, and EPS reached its highest second-quarter level in a decade. These results are clear testaments to the durability of our growth strategy and the discipline behind our execution, and we remain confident in achieving our full-year targets,” said Mr. Chih-Cheng Chien, Chairman and CEO of Chunghwa Telecom.

“Our core telecom business remained the cornerstone of our performance, generating the largest share of both revenue and profit in the quarter. Mobile revenue market share reached a new high to 41.2%, and our 5G penetration among smartphone users increased to 48.8%. As a result, mobile service revenue increased by 3.2%, above industry average, supported by continued 5G adoption and stronger roaming contributions. Fixed broadband continued to benefit from rising demand for higher-speed services, with 1 Gbps-and-above subscribers growing 61% year over year and driving further ARPU improvement. Our consumer digital services also continued to grow, with the FIFA World Cup providing a meaningful boost to this segment. As a result, video subscriptions reached an annual peak and OTT revenue grew 20% year over year,” said Mr. Rong-Shy Lin, President of Chunghwa Telecom.

“Our Enterprise Business Group was another major growth driver, with ICT revenue up 32% year over year on solid revenue contribution from big data, cybersecurity, and IDC services. Encouragingly, our first-half ICT order intake already matched the full-year total achieved in 2025, reflecting a robust project pipeline. Our International Business Group likewise delivered an excellent quarter, with revenue up 79% year over year, led by large-scale ICT project deliveries in the United States and Southeast Asia, alongside continued expansion of our satellite and submarine cable networks,” Mr. Lin continued.

“Looking ahead, we are advancing our long-term AI strategy, including the launch announcement of our Lunping campus AIDC earlier today and the signing of an MOU with the Taiwan Stock Exchange in July to provide dedicated AIDC capacity in Taichung. We will also continue to advance our position as a regional hub for connectivity, computing, and AI, with disciplined execution of our IOWN investments. We remain committed to our ESG goals and to delivering sustainable shareholder returns,” Mr. Lin added. 

Revenue

Chunghwa Telecom’s total revenues for the second quarter of 2026 increased by 8.2% to NT$ 61.36 billion.

Consumer Business Group’s revenue for the second quarter of 2026 increased by 4.8% year-over-year to NT$ 35.73 billion and income before tax increased by 3.6% year-over-year, supported by steady increases in core telecom business and strong iPhone demands.

Enterprise Business Group’s revenue increased by 3.7% year-over-year to NT$19.68 billion in the second quarter, while income before tax grew by 2.1%, driven by strong ICT demand as well as growth in enterprise mobile projects.

International Business Group’s revenue for the second quarter of 2026 increased by 78.9% to NT$ 3.93 billion and income before tax increased by 30.8% year-over-year, primarily due to the large-scale ICT project deliveries across the U.S. and Southeast Asia

Operating Costs and Expenses

Total operating costs and expenses for the second quarter of 2026 increased by 8.9% to NT$ 48.10 billion, mainly due to higher costs associated with growth in ICT project revenue and sales, as well as an increase in personnel expenses.

 Operating Income and Net Income

Operating income for the second quarter of 2026 increased by 5.7% to NT$ 13.26 billion. The operating margin was 21.51%, as compared to 22.11% in the same period of 2025. Net income attributable to stockholders of the parent increased by 4.7% to NT$ 10.64 billion. Basic earnings per share was NT$1.38.

Cash Flow and EBITDA

Cash flow from operating activities, as of June 30th, 2026, increased by 8.4% year over year to NT$ 31.74 billion.

Cash and cash equivalents, as of June 30th, 2026, increased by 20.0% to NT$ 42.03 billion as compared to that as of June 30th, 2025.

EBITDA for the second quarter of 2026 was NT$ 23.52 billion, increased by 4.1% year over year. EBITDA margin was 38.32%, as compared to 39.80% in the same period of 2025.

Business Highlights

Mobile

As of June 30th, 2026, Chunghwa Telecom had 13.43 million mobile subscribers, representing a 2.3% year-over-year increase. In the second quarter, total mobile service revenue increased by 3.2% to NT$ 17.60 billion, while mobile post-paid ARPU excluding IoT SIMs grew 2.4% year over year to NT$ 569.

Fixed Broadband/HiNet

As of June 30th, 2026, the number of broadband subscribers slightly increased by 0.6% to 4.47 million. The number of HiNet broadband subscribers increased by 1.5% to 3.82 million. In the second quarter, total fixed broadband revenue grew 3.3% year over year to NT$ 11.97 billion, while ARPU increased 2.4% to NT$ 824.

Fixed line                                             

As of June 30th, 2026, the number of fixed-line subscribers was 8.50 million.

Financial Statements

Financial statements and additional operational data can be found on the Company’s website at http://www.cht.com.tw/en/home/cht/investors/financials/quarterly-earnings 

NOTE CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements constitute “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about Chunghwa’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. A number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Investors are cautioned that actual events and results could differ materially from those statements as a result of a number of factors including, but not limited to the risks outlined in Chunghwa’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Forms F-1, F-3, 6-K and 20-F, in each case as amended. The forward-looking statements in this press release reflect the current belief of Chunghwa as of the date of this press release and Chunghwa undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements for events or circumstances that occur subsequent to such date, except as required under applicable law.

This press release is not an offer of securities for sale in the United States. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. Any public offering of securities to be made in the United States will be made by means of a prospectus that may be obtained from the issuer or selling security holder and that will contain detailed information about the company and management, as well as financial statements.

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

To supplement the Company’s consolidated financial statements presented in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards pursuant to the requirements of the Financial Supervisory Commission, or T-IFRSs, Chunghwa Telecom also provides EBITDA, which is a “non-GAAP financial measure”.  EBITDA is defined as consolidated net income (loss) excluding (i) depreciation and amortization, (ii) total net comprehensive financing cost (which is comprised of net interest expense, exchange gain or loss, monetary position gain or loss and other financing costs and derivative transactions), (iii) other income, net, (iv) income tax, (v) (income) loss from discontinued operations.

In managing the Company’s business, Chunghwa Telecom relies on EBITDA as a means of assessing its operating performance because it excludes the effect of (i) depreciation and amortization, which represents a non-cash charge to earnings, (ii) certain financing costs, which are significantly affected by external factors, including interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and inflation rates, which have little or no bearing on our operating performance, (iii) income tax (iv) other expenses or income not related to the operation of the business. 

CAUTIONS ON USE OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

In addition to the consolidated financial results prepared under T-IFRSs, Chunghwa Telecom also provide non-GAAP financial measures, including “EBITDA”. The Company believes that the non-GAAP financial measures provide investors with another method for assessing its operating results in a manner that is focused on the performance of its ongoing operations.

Chunghwa Telecom’s management believes investors will benefit from greater transparency in referring to these non-GAAP financial measures when assessing the Company’s operating results, as well as when forecasting and analyzing future periods. However, the Company recognizes that:

these non-GAAP financial measures are limited in their usefulness and should be considered only as a supplement to the Company’s T-IFRSs financial measures;these non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation from, or as a substitute for, the Company’s T-IFRSs financial measures;these non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered to be superior to the Company’s T-IFRSs financial measures; andthese non-GAAP financial measures were not prepared in accordance with T-IFRSs and investors should not assume that the non-GAAP financial measures presented in this earnings release were prepared under a comprehensive set of rules or principle.             

Further, these non-GAAP financial measures may be unique to Chunghwa Telecom, as they may be different from non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies. As such, this presentation of non-GAAP financial measures may not enhance the comparability of the Company’s results to the results of other companies. Readers are cautioned not to view non-GAAP results as a substitute for results under T-IFRSs, or as being comparable to results reported or forecasted by other companies.

About Chunghwa Telecom

Chunghwa Telecom (TAIEX 2412, NYSE: CHT) (“Chunghwa” or “the Company”) is Taiwan’s largest integrated telecommunications services company that provides fixed-line, mobile, broadband, and internet services. The Company also provides information and communication technology services to corporate customers with its big data, information security, cloud computing and IDC capabilities, and is expanding its business into innovative technology services such as IoT, AI, etc. Chunghwa has been actively and continuously implemented environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives with the goal to achieve sustainability and has won numerous international and domestic awards and recognitions for its ESG commitments and best practices. For more information, please visit our website at www.cht.com.tw 

Contact:         Angela Tsai

Phone:           +886 2 2344 5488

Email:            chtir@cht.com.tw

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SOURCE Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd.

Six new premieres and four curated archive selections showcase how young filmmakers and global innovators are tackling the defining challenges of our time.

NEW YORK, Aug. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Planet Classroom Network, produced by CMRubinWorld, today announced its August 2026 programming lineup, featuring six new premieres and four curated archive selections exploring artificial intelligence, climate action, healthcare innovation, social inclusion, creativity, and human connection.

Streaming throughout August on the Planet Classroom YouTube channel, the films bring together emerging filmmakers, youth leaders, scientists, artists, educators, and innovators from around the world. Together, they explore critical questions shaping society today:

How can AI enhance our lives while preserving authentic human connection? How can communities accelerate practical climate solutions? What does true economic inclusion look like? And how can society prepare young people to thrive in a rapidly changing world?

The August lineup reflects Planet Classroom’s ongoing mission to elevate youth voices, foster cross-cultural dialogue, promote ethical innovation, and spotlight practical solutions through powerful short-form storytelling.

“Young people are not waiting for the future to arrive—they are actively helping shape it,” said C. M. (Cathy) Rubin, Founder and CEO of the Planet Classroom Network. “This month’s films explore some of the most important issues facing our world while highlighting the creativity, resilience, and innovation emerging from the next generation of storytellers and changemakers.”

AUGUST 2026 PREMIERES

Net Zero Speaks to Andrew Blakers

Can the world run on 100 percent renewable energy without sacrificing grid reliability or affordability? Host Ivan Ransom speaks with Australian National University Professor Andrew Blakers, co-inventor of the PERC solar cell, about how ultra-low-cost solar power and off-river pumped hydro storage can accelerate the global transition to clean energy.

The Happiness Shop

Directed by Brianna Avnell, this uplifting documentary follows women with disabilities in Vietnam who transform recycled materials into handmade products—building confidence, economic independence, and community through inclusive employment.

Your Necklace

Award-winning young filmmaker Kayla Ling delivers a poignant narrative exploring childhood isolation, belonging, and empathy. Inspired by her own experiences, the film illustrates how small acts of inclusion can shape a young person’s future.

Can Los Angeles Pull Off the 2028 Olympics?

Filmmaker Olivia Lugo investigates whether Los Angeles can deliver its ambitious “no-build” Olympic strategy while navigating complex transit, housing, security, and infrastructure demands ahead of the 2028 Summer Games.

Late-Night Lifeline: When AI Becomes Someone to Talk To

Gabriela Zavala examines how young people across East Asia are turning to AI companion chatbots during moments of stress, loneliness, and anxiety—raising important questions about the future of digital mental health support.

What If Healing at Home Is Better Than the Hospital?

Sam Sullivan examines how AI-driven home healthcare technologies enable patients to recover safely in their own homes while reducing strain on hospital systems, promoting patient independence, and enabling earlier medical intervention.

FEATURED FROM THE PLANET CLASSROOM ARCHIVES

Alongside its August premieres, Planet Classroom is presenting four acclaimed films whose themes remain especially relevant today.

Who Owns Intelligence?

Inspired by Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences, Juan P. Voorduin’s thought-provoking short challenges audiences to redefine human intelligence in an age increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence.

The Island

Director Mahmut Taş tells a moving story of drought and environmental loss through the eyes of a young girl confronting climate change in her village.

Delay

Sofia Macias’s suspenseful psychological thriller explores fate, time, and unintended consequences in a story that leaves audiences questioning reality.

Peabody Dance – Valse Brillante

Lori Belilove celebrates the enduring legacy of dance pioneer Isadora Duncan in a visually stunning performance honoring movement, artistic expression, and cultural heritage.

WHY THESE STORIES MATTER

While the subjects range from renewable energy and artificial intelligence to home healthcare, disability inclusion, climate resilience, and the performing arts, every film shares a common message: individuals and communities are finding creative, practical ways to address the defining challenges of the twenty-first century.

Created by emerging filmmakers and international partners, these stories reflect Planet Classroom’s belief that meaningful progress begins when young people are empowered to ask difficult questions, challenge assumptions, and imagine better futures.

Together, the August collection demonstrates the power of storytelling to inspire learning, spark dialogue, and encourage action across generations and cultures.

About Planet Classroom

The Planet Classroom Network, produced by CMRubinWorld, is a global media ecosystem and YouTube channel connecting creators, youth leaders, educators, policymakers, scientists, artists, and international cultural partners around today’s most urgent global challenges.

Featuring nearly 1,000 films created by more than 400 filmmakers and curators, Planet Classroom showcases documentaries, narrative films, dance, music, visual arts, and breakthrough technologies transforming education, climate action, artificial intelligence, sustainability, healthcare, and global innovation.

Through acclaimed series including AI for a Better World, Net Zero Speaks, and Problem Solvers, Planet Classroom elevates youth voices, ethical innovation, cross-cultural understanding, and practical solutions created for—and with—young people worldwide.

Planet Classroom Network YouTube Channel  

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SOURCE Planet Classroom Network