April 29, 2026

. NEW DELHI: In a significant policy shift, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has removed key restrictions on MBBS seat expansion, opening the door for a substantial increase in undergraduate medical seats across the country.In a gazette notification issued on April 27, the NMC amended its 2023 regulations governing new medical colleges and expansion of existing courses.The amendment deletes a clause that capped the total number of MBBS seats at 150 per college for those seeking expansion from the 2024–25 academic year. Colleges seeking to increase intake will no longer be bound by this upper limit.The commission has also removed the requirement that states maintain a ratio of 100 MBBS seats per 10 lakh population, a norm that earlier guided approvals for new seats.Officials indicated that the changes are intended to provide greater flexibility to institutions and support faster expansion of medical education capacity in line with rising demand for doctors.In another operational change, the NMC has revised norms related to the distance between a medical college and its teaching hospital. Instead of a travel-time cap of 30 minutes, the rules now prescribe a maximum distance of 10 km. For northeastern and Himalayan states, the limit has been relaxed to 15 km.The amendments have been notified under the NMC Act, 2019, and apply to both the Undergraduate Medical Education Board’s seat expansion guidelines and the Graduate Medical Education Regulations, 2023.The move is expected to benefit both government and private medical colleges looking to scale up capacity, particularly in states where demand for seats continues to outstrip supply, while placing the onus on regulators to maintain quality standards and infrastructure.About the AuthorAnuja JaiswalAnuja Jaiswal is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, with an impressive 18-year career in narrative journalism. She specializes in health and heritage reporting, expertly simplifying complex health information to make it engaging and understandable for readers. Her deep dives into heritage topics are well-researched, resulting in captivating narratives that resonate with her audience. Over the years, she has worked in Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and West UP, gaining diverse on-ground experience that shapes her storytelling.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In RajasthanISRO-s Big Shift- Civilians To Join Gaganyaan Missions – India-s Space Programme Expands”Online Radicalisation Led To…” Maharashtra CM On ISIS-Inspired AttackIndia’s Defence Spending Hits $92 Bn, Becomes World’s 5th Largest Amid Global Military Surge123PhotostoriesMS Dhoni calls this city his home: “There’s no good reason for me to work, to shift to any other city”10 royal baby boy names inspired by kings and warriorsSuhana Khan returns in liquid gold in an Arpita Mehta saree that refuses to be ignoredMorning affirmation at 5am: Feeling lost? This might helpFrom tasting success and popularity after playing Samar to being ousted overnight from Anupamaa: Paras Kalnawat on his journeyKate Middleton dips into Princess Diana’s 1995 Germany look with sapphire earrings from the royal jewellery archivesAhead of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2,’ buzz around the threequel adds to fans’ anticipation – here’s what we knowWhy BTS K-pop star Jungkook’s basic bodyweight routine may be more effective than your gym plan5 longest train journeys in the world: Did you know India has one?10 things you should walk away from— No regrets, no looking back123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Mamata BanerjeeBengal Women VotersPM Rally GunfireAssembly Election 2026Bengal Oath CeremonyTrinamool CongressTop TrendingSaeed Sheikh AfridiExit Poll results 2026PM modiSalim DolaAssam HS 12th ResultManish SisodiaMumbai Watermelon Poisoning newsBengal PollsJack GrealishIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins
. NEW DELHI: In a significant policy shift, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has removed key restrictions on MBBS seat expansion, opening the door for a substantial increase in undergraduate medical seats across the country.In a gazette notification issued on April 27, the NMC amended its 2023 regulations governing new medical colleges and expansion of existing courses.The amendment deletes a clause that capped the total number of MBBS seats at 150 per college for those seeking expansion from the 2024–25 academic year. Colleges seeking to increase intake will no longer be bound by this upper limit.The commission has also removed the requirement that states maintain a ratio of 100 MBBS seats per 10 lakh population, a norm that earlier guided approvals for new seats.Officials indicated that the changes are intended to provide greater flexibility to institutions and support faster expansion of medical education capacity in line with rising demand for doctors.In another operational change, the NMC has revised norms related to the distance between a medical college and its teaching hospital. Instead of a travel-time cap of 30 minutes, the rules now prescribe a maximum distance of 10 km. For northeastern and Himalayan states, the limit has been relaxed to 15 km.The amendments have been notified under the NMC Act, 2019, and apply to both the Undergraduate Medical Education Board’s seat expansion guidelines and the Graduate Medical Education Regulations, 2023.The move is expected to benefit both government and private medical colleges looking to scale up capacity, particularly in states where demand for seats continues to outstrip supply, while placing the onus on regulators to maintain quality standards and infrastructure.About the AuthorAnuja JaiswalAnuja Jaiswal is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, with an impressive 18-year career in narrative journalism. She specializes in health and heritage reporting, expertly simplifying complex health information to make it engaging and understandable for readers. Her deep dives into heritage topics are well-researched, resulting in captivating narratives that resonate with her audience. Over the years, she has worked in Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and West UP, gaining diverse on-ground experience that shapes her storytelling.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In RajasthanISRO-s Big Shift- Civilians To Join Gaganyaan Missions – India-s Space Programme Expands”Online Radicalisation Led To…” Maharashtra CM On ISIS-Inspired AttackIndia’s Defence Spending Hits Bn, Becomes World’s 5th Largest Amid Global Military Surge123PhotostoriesMS Dhoni calls this city his home: “There’s no good reason for me to work, to shift to any other city”10 royal baby boy names inspired by kings and warriorsSuhana Khan returns in liquid gold in an Arpita Mehta saree that refuses to be ignoredMorning affirmation at 5am: Feeling lost? This might helpFrom tasting success and popularity after playing Samar to being ousted overnight from Anupamaa: Paras Kalnawat on his journeyKate Middleton dips into Princess Diana’s 1995 Germany look with sapphire earrings from the royal jewellery archivesAhead of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2,’ buzz around the threequel adds to fans’ anticipation – here’s what we knowWhy BTS K-pop star Jungkook’s basic bodyweight routine may be more effective than your gym plan5 longest train journeys in the world: Did you know India has one?10 things you should walk away from— No regrets, no looking back123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Mamata BanerjeeBengal Women VotersPM Rally GunfireAssembly Election 2026Bengal Oath CeremonyTrinamool CongressTop TrendingSaeed Sheikh AfridiExit Poll results 2026PM modiSalim DolaAssam HS 12th ResultManish SisodiaMumbai Watermelon Poisoning newsBengal PollsJack GrealishIPL Orange Cap


National medical commission removes cap on MBBS seats, eases population norm

NEW DELHI: In a significant policy shift, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has removed key restrictions on MBBS seat expansion, opening the door for a substantial increase in undergraduate medical seats across the country.In a gazette notification issued on April 27, the NMC amended its 2023 regulations governing new medical colleges and expansion of existing courses.The amendment deletes a clause that capped the total number of MBBS seats at 150 per college for those seeking expansion from the 2024–25 academic year. Colleges seeking to increase intake will no longer be bound by this upper limit.The commission has also removed the requirement that states maintain a ratio of 100 MBBS seats per 10 lakh population, a norm that earlier guided approvals for new seats.Officials indicated that the changes are intended to provide greater flexibility to institutions and support faster expansion of medical education capacity in line with rising demand for doctors.In another operational change, the NMC has revised norms related to the distance between a medical college and its teaching hospital. Instead of a travel-time cap of 30 minutes, the rules now prescribe a maximum distance of 10 km. For northeastern and Himalayan states, the limit has been relaxed to 15 km.The amendments have been notified under the NMC Act, 2019, and apply to both the Undergraduate Medical Education Board’s seat expansion guidelines and the Graduate Medical Education Regulations, 2023.The move is expected to benefit both government and private medical colleges looking to scale up capacity, particularly in states where demand for seats continues to outstrip supply, while placing the onus on regulators to maintain quality standards and infrastructure.



Source link

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related News

An AI generated image used for representation purpose only NEW DELHI: The sixth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6), one of India’s largest and most comprehensive health surveys, is expected to be released in the first fortnight of May by the Union health minister, officials said.Conducted during 2023-24, the survey covered 6,79,238 households across all States and Union Territories, generating a vast dataset on health, nutrition and population indicators that will serve as a key reference for policymakers and programme managers.NFHS is widely used to track long-term trends and benchmark progress in critical areas such as maternal and child health, fertility, nutrition and disease burden. The upcoming round is expected to provide updated insights following the previous survey conducted in 2019-21.For the first time, NFHS-6 was carried out entirely using a digital platform through Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI), with built-in checks for real-time error detection and validation to improve data quality.Officials said the survey involved rigorous field supervision and multi-level scrutiny, including extensive validation and review processes, to ensure accuracy, consistency and reliability of estimates.The release is expected to be closely watched by both the Centre and states, as the findings will shape future health policies, programme design and resource allocation.New Delhi: The sixth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6), one of India’s largest and most comprehensive health surveys, is expected to be released in the first fortnight of May by the Union health minister, officials said.Conducted during 2023-24, the survey covered 6,79,238 households across all States and Union Territories, generating a vast dataset on health, nutrition and population indicators that will serve as a key reference for policymakers and programme managers.NFHS is widely used to track long-term trends and benchmark progress in critical areas such as maternal and child health, fertility, nutrition and disease burden. The upcoming round is expected to provide updated insights following the previous survey conducted in 2019-21.For the first time, NFHS-6 was carried out entirely using a digital platform through Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI), with built-in checks for real-time error detection and validation to improve data quality.Officials said the survey involved rigorous field supervision and multi-level scrutiny, including extensive validation and review processes, to ensure accuracy, consistency and reliability of estimates.The release is expected to be closely watched by both the Centre and states, as the findings will shape future health policies, programme design and resource allocation.About the AuthorAnuja JaiswalAnuja Jaiswal is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, with an impressive 18-year career in narrative journalism. She specializes in health and heritage reporting, expertly simplifying complex health information to make it engaging and understandable for readers. Her deep dives into heritage topics are well-researched, resulting in captivating narratives that resonate with her audience. Over the years, she has worked in Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and West UP, gaining diverse on-ground experience that shapes her storytelling.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In RajasthanISRO-s Big Shift- Civilians To Join Gaganyaan Missions – India-s Space Programme Expands”Online Radicalisation Led To…” Maharashtra CM On ISIS-Inspired Attack123PhotostoriesChef Vikas Khanna reveals the dish he makes when he misses home; recipe insideMS Dhoni calls this city his home: “There’s no good reason for me to work, to shift to any other city”10 royal baby boy names inspired by kings and warriorsSuhana Khan returns in liquid gold in an Arpita Mehta saree that refuses to be ignoredMorning affirmation at 5am: Feeling lost? This might helpFrom tasting success and popularity after playing Samar to being ousted overnight from Anupamaa: Paras Kalnawat on his journeyKate Middleton dips into Princess Diana’s 1995 Germany look with sapphire earrings from the royal jewellery archivesAhead of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2,’ buzz around the threequel adds to fans’ anticipation – here’s what we knowWhy BTS K-pop star Jungkook’s basic bodyweight routine may be more effective than your gym plan5 longest train journeys in the world: Did you know India has one?123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingSaeed Sheikh AfridiExit Poll results 2026PM modiSalim DolaAssam HS 12th ResultManish SisodiaMumbai Watermelon Poisoning newsBengal PollsJack GrealishIPL Orange Cap

An AI generated image used for representation purpose only NEW DELHI: The sixth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6), one of India’s largest and most comprehensive health surveys, is expected to be released in the first fortnight of May by the Union health minister, officials said.Conducted during 2023-24, the survey covered 6,79,238 households across all States and Union Territories, generating a vast dataset on health, nutrition and population indicators that will serve as a key reference for policymakers and programme managers.NFHS is widely used to track long-term trends and benchmark progress in critical areas such as maternal and child health, fertility, nutrition and disease burden. The upcoming round is expected to provide updated insights following the previous survey conducted in 2019-21.For the first time, NFHS-6 was carried out entirely using a digital platform through Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI), with built-in checks for real-time error detection and validation to improve data quality.Officials said the survey involved rigorous field supervision and multi-level scrutiny, including extensive validation and review processes, to ensure accuracy, consistency and reliability of estimates.The release is expected to be closely watched by both the Centre and states, as the findings will shape future health policies, programme design and resource allocation.New Delhi: The sixth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6), one of India’s largest and most comprehensive health surveys, is expected to be released in the first fortnight of May by the Union health minister, officials said.Conducted during 2023-24, the survey covered 6,79,238 households across all States and Union Territories, generating a vast dataset on health, nutrition and population indicators that will serve as a key reference for policymakers and programme managers.NFHS is widely used to track long-term trends and benchmark progress in critical areas such as maternal and child health, fertility, nutrition and disease burden. The upcoming round is expected to provide updated insights following the previous survey conducted in 2019-21.For the first time, NFHS-6 was carried out entirely using a digital platform through Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI), with built-in checks for real-time error detection and validation to improve data quality.Officials said the survey involved rigorous field supervision and multi-level scrutiny, including extensive validation and review processes, to ensure accuracy, consistency and reliability of estimates.The release is expected to be closely watched by both the Centre and states, as the findings will shape future health policies, programme design and resource allocation.About the AuthorAnuja JaiswalAnuja Jaiswal is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, with an impressive 18-year career in narrative journalism. She specializes in health and heritage reporting, expertly simplifying complex health information to make it engaging and understandable for readers. Her deep dives into heritage topics are well-researched, resulting in captivating narratives that resonate with her audience. Over the years, she has worked in Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and West UP, gaining diverse on-ground experience that shapes her storytelling.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In RajasthanISRO-s Big Shift- Civilians To Join Gaganyaan Missions – India-s Space Programme Expands”Online Radicalisation Led To…” Maharashtra CM On ISIS-Inspired Attack123PhotostoriesChef Vikas Khanna reveals the dish he makes when he misses home; recipe insideMS Dhoni calls this city his home: “There’s no good reason for me to work, to shift to any other city”10 royal baby boy names inspired by kings and warriorsSuhana Khan returns in liquid gold in an Arpita Mehta saree that refuses to be ignoredMorning affirmation at 5am: Feeling lost? This might helpFrom tasting success and popularity after playing Samar to being ousted overnight from Anupamaa: Paras Kalnawat on his journeyKate Middleton dips into Princess Diana’s 1995 Germany look with sapphire earrings from the royal jewellery archivesAhead of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2,’ buzz around the threequel adds to fans’ anticipation – here’s what we knowWhy BTS K-pop star Jungkook’s basic bodyweight routine may be more effective than your gym plan5 longest train journeys in the world: Did you know India has one?123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingSaeed Sheikh AfridiExit Poll results 2026PM modiSalim DolaAssam HS 12th ResultManish SisodiaMumbai Watermelon Poisoning newsBengal PollsJack GrealishIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0
. NEW DELHI: In a significant move targeting single-use plastic in tobacco-related products, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed a complete shift to non-plastic packaging for pan masala, gutka and similar items.A draft amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018, released on Tuesday, mandates that these products be packed only in paper, paperboard, cellulose or other naturally derived materials. The draft explicitly bars the use of all plastics — including polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, PVC and multilayer laminates — as well as aluminium foil or metallised layers.Officials said the proposed norms will apply across the board to both tobacco and non-tobacco variants of pan masala and related products.The proposal goes further to prohibit the use of specific copolymers such as vinyl acetate–maleic acid–vinyl chloride in any packaging for gutka, pan masala and tobacco in all forms.The changes have been introduced as an insertion in Schedule IV of the packaging regulations, which lists permissible materials for specific food categories. Pan masala has been added as a separate entry with strict material restrictions.The draft also aligns with existing plastic waste management rules, reinforcing that plastic packaging cannot be used for storage, packing or sale of these products.The move comes against the backdrop of ongoing state-level restrictions on these products. As of 2026, several states — including Maharashtra, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, West Bengal, Kerala, Gujarat and Delhi — have banned the manufacture, sale, storage and distribution of gutka and pan masala containing tobacco or nicotine, with many renewing these prohibitions annually.FSSAI has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders within 30 days of the notification. The authority said all feedback received within this period will be examined before finalising the amendment.If notified, the move is expected to impact a large segment of the chewing tobacco and pan masala industry, which currently relies heavily on multilayer plastic sachets that are difficult to recycle and contribute significantly to litter.The proposal signals a tighter regulatory push on both public health and environmental fronts, especially targeting products that are widely consumed and generate high-volume plastic waste.About the AuthorAnuja JaiswalAnuja Jaiswal is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, with an impressive 18-year career in narrative journalism. She specializes in health and heritage reporting, expertly simplifying complex health information to make it engaging and understandable for readers. Her deep dives into heritage topics are well-researched, resulting in captivating narratives that resonate with her audience. Over the years, she has worked in Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and West UP, gaining diverse on-ground experience that shapes her storytelling.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In RajasthanISRO-s Big Shift- Civilians To Join Gaganyaan Missions – India-s Space Programme Expands”Online Radicalisation Led To…” Maharashtra CM On ISIS-Inspired Attack123PhotostoriesChef Vikas Khanna reveals the dish he makes when he misses home; recipe insideMS Dhoni calls this city his home: “There’s no good reason for me to work, to shift to any other city”10 royal baby boy names inspired by kings and warriorsSuhana Khan returns in liquid gold in an Arpita Mehta saree that refuses to be ignoredMorning affirmation at 5am: Feeling lost? This might helpFrom tasting success and popularity after playing Samar to being ousted overnight from Anupamaa: Paras Kalnawat on his journeyKate Middleton dips into Princess Diana’s 1995 Germany look with sapphire earrings from the royal jewellery archivesAhead of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2,’ buzz around the threequel adds to fans’ anticipation – here’s what we knowWhy BTS K-pop star Jungkook’s basic bodyweight routine may be more effective than your gym plan5 longest train journeys in the world: Did you know India has one?123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingSaeed Sheikh AfridiExit Poll results 2026PM modiSalim DolaAssam HS 12th ResultManish SisodiaMumbai Watermelon Poisoning newsBengal PollsJack GrealishIPL Orange Cap

. NEW DELHI: In a significant move targeting single-use plastic in tobacco-related products, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed a complete shift to non-plastic packaging for pan masala, gutka and similar items.A draft amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018, released on Tuesday, mandates that these products be packed only in paper, paperboard, cellulose or other naturally derived materials. The draft explicitly bars the use of all plastics — including polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, PVC and multilayer laminates — as well as aluminium foil or metallised layers.Officials said the proposed norms will apply across the board to both tobacco and non-tobacco variants of pan masala and related products.The proposal goes further to prohibit the use of specific copolymers such as vinyl acetate–maleic acid–vinyl chloride in any packaging for gutka, pan masala and tobacco in all forms.The changes have been introduced as an insertion in Schedule IV of the packaging regulations, which lists permissible materials for specific food categories. Pan masala has been added as a separate entry with strict material restrictions.The draft also aligns with existing plastic waste management rules, reinforcing that plastic packaging cannot be used for storage, packing or sale of these products.The move comes against the backdrop of ongoing state-level restrictions on these products. As of 2026, several states — including Maharashtra, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, West Bengal, Kerala, Gujarat and Delhi — have banned the manufacture, sale, storage and distribution of gutka and pan masala containing tobacco or nicotine, with many renewing these prohibitions annually.FSSAI has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders within 30 days of the notification. The authority said all feedback received within this period will be examined before finalising the amendment.If notified, the move is expected to impact a large segment of the chewing tobacco and pan masala industry, which currently relies heavily on multilayer plastic sachets that are difficult to recycle and contribute significantly to litter.The proposal signals a tighter regulatory push on both public health and environmental fronts, especially targeting products that are widely consumed and generate high-volume plastic waste.About the AuthorAnuja JaiswalAnuja Jaiswal is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, with an impressive 18-year career in narrative journalism. She specializes in health and heritage reporting, expertly simplifying complex health information to make it engaging and understandable for readers. Her deep dives into heritage topics are well-researched, resulting in captivating narratives that resonate with her audience. Over the years, she has worked in Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and West UP, gaining diverse on-ground experience that shapes her storytelling.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In RajasthanISRO-s Big Shift- Civilians To Join Gaganyaan Missions – India-s Space Programme Expands”Online Radicalisation Led To…” Maharashtra CM On ISIS-Inspired Attack123PhotostoriesChef Vikas Khanna reveals the dish he makes when he misses home; recipe insideMS Dhoni calls this city his home: “There’s no good reason for me to work, to shift to any other city”10 royal baby boy names inspired by kings and warriorsSuhana Khan returns in liquid gold in an Arpita Mehta saree that refuses to be ignoredMorning affirmation at 5am: Feeling lost? This might helpFrom tasting success and popularity after playing Samar to being ousted overnight from Anupamaa: Paras Kalnawat on his journeyKate Middleton dips into Princess Diana’s 1995 Germany look with sapphire earrings from the royal jewellery archivesAhead of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2,’ buzz around the threequel adds to fans’ anticipation – here’s what we knowWhy BTS K-pop star Jungkook’s basic bodyweight routine may be more effective than your gym plan5 longest train journeys in the world: Did you know India has one?123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingSaeed Sheikh AfridiExit Poll results 2026PM modiSalim DolaAssam HS 12th ResultManish SisodiaMumbai Watermelon Poisoning newsBengal PollsJack GrealishIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0
Image: IANS The Supreme Court stated on Wednesday that existing legal provisions are sufficient to address hate speech offences, declining to issue further directions on the matter as it falls within the legislature’s domain.”Prescription of punishment lies squarely within legislative domain. Constitutional scheme founded upon doctrine of separation of powers does not permit judiciary to create new offences,” the supreme court said, adding that no legislative vacuum exists to warrant the intervention sought.”While constitutional courts may interpret law, they cannot legislate or compel legislation,” the supreme court said.The court, however, urged the Centre to examine whether fresh legislation is warranted to tackle hate speech in light of changing social contexts.A Bench of Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta delivered the judgment on a batch of petitions seeking directions and guidelines to address the issue of hate speech, as cited by Live Law.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In RajasthanISRO-s Big Shift- Civilians To Join Gaganyaan Missions – India-s Space Programme Expands”Online Radicalisation Led To…” Maharashtra CM On ISIS-Inspired Attack123PhotostoriesMS Dhoni calls this city his home: “There’s no good reason for me to work, to shift to any other city”10 royal baby boy names inspired by kings and warriorsSuhana Khan returns in liquid gold in an Arpita Mehta saree that refuses to be ignoredMorning affirmation at 5am: Feeling lost? This might helpFrom tasting success and popularity after playing Samar to being ousted overnight from Anupamaa: Paras Kalnawat on his journeyKate Middleton dips into Princess Diana’s 1995 Germany look with sapphire earrings from the royal jewellery archivesAhead of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2,’ buzz around the threequel adds to fans’ anticipation – here’s what we knowWhy BTS K-pop star Jungkook’s basic bodyweight routine may be more effective than your gym plan5 longest train journeys in the world: Did you know India has one?10 things you should walk away from— No regrets, no looking back123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingSaeed Sheikh AfridiExit Poll results 2026PM modiSalim DolaAssam HS 12th ResultManish SisodiaMumbai Watermelon Poisoning newsBengal PollsJack GrealishIPL Orange Cap

Image: IANS The Supreme Court stated on Wednesday that existing legal provisions are sufficient to address hate speech offences, declining to issue further directions on the matter as it falls within the legislature’s domain.”Prescription of punishment lies squarely within legislative domain. Constitutional scheme founded upon doctrine of separation of powers does not permit judiciary to create new offences,” the supreme court said, adding that no legislative vacuum exists to warrant the intervention sought.”While constitutional courts may interpret law, they cannot legislate or compel legislation,” the supreme court said.The court, however, urged the Centre to examine whether fresh legislation is warranted to tackle hate speech in light of changing social contexts.A Bench of Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta delivered the judgment on a batch of petitions seeking directions and guidelines to address the issue of hate speech, as cited by Live Law.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In RajasthanISRO-s Big Shift- Civilians To Join Gaganyaan Missions – India-s Space Programme Expands”Online Radicalisation Led To…” Maharashtra CM On ISIS-Inspired Attack123PhotostoriesMS Dhoni calls this city his home: “There’s no good reason for me to work, to shift to any other city”10 royal baby boy names inspired by kings and warriorsSuhana Khan returns in liquid gold in an Arpita Mehta saree that refuses to be ignoredMorning affirmation at 5am: Feeling lost? This might helpFrom tasting success and popularity after playing Samar to being ousted overnight from Anupamaa: Paras Kalnawat on his journeyKate Middleton dips into Princess Diana’s 1995 Germany look with sapphire earrings from the royal jewellery archivesAhead of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2,’ buzz around the threequel adds to fans’ anticipation – here’s what we knowWhy BTS K-pop star Jungkook’s basic bodyweight routine may be more effective than your gym plan5 longest train journeys in the world: Did you know India has one?10 things you should walk away from— No regrets, no looking back123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingSaeed Sheikh AfridiExit Poll results 2026PM modiSalim DolaAssam HS 12th ResultManish SisodiaMumbai Watermelon Poisoning newsBengal PollsJack GrealishIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0