VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html Critics Choice Super Award Nominations: Priyanka Chopra lands nomination for Best Actress in an Action Movie; ‘Superman’ and ‘The Boys’ lead nominees China’s economy stumbles with growth below target: Report ‘The Odyssey’ advance box office report: Christopher Nolan’s epic headed for record-breaking debut; to cross Rs 20 crore mark in India ‘Like my lover’: Chinese users bid farewell to AI companions MOTIHARI: At the age of 68, when most people begin slowing down, Habiban Khatoon stepped into a courtroom to fight for what she believed was rightfully hers – possession of 1 katha and 4 dhur of land. She finally received justice 35 years later, at the age of 103.The order led to celebrations in the family of Habiban, a resident of Bihar’s East Champaran district, who fought the decades-long legal battle against all odds. Their only regret is that her husband, Naimullah Ansari, is no longer alive to witness the moment. The dispute dates back to 1993, when Habiban’s eldest son Rahamtullah bought a plot of land from a villager, Afaque Ahmad, in his mother’s name. His cousin, Liaquat Hussain, too bought the same piece of land from Afaque two days after the registration of Habiban’s deed and took possession of it.Habiban filed a title suit against Liaquat in the court of Motihari sadar munsif in March 1994. After years of proceedings, she finally got a favourable order, but Liaquat challenged it before the district judge’s court in 2004. As the district judge also ruled in her favour, Liaquat moved HC in 2014. The HC, too ruled against him, but Habiban’s wait continued. She approached the sadar munsif court in 2014, seeking possession of the land. But the proceedings were delayed because of transfer of sadar munsifs and then Covid. After nearly 12 years, the proceedings finally became active again and she got possession of the land on Tuesday. However, justice came at a heavy cost as she had to sell all her valuables to bear the legal expenses. – Chandra Bhushan PandeyGet the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorChandra Bhushan PandeyAssociated with TOI for the last 25 years. A postgraduate in Political Science from BRA BU Muzaffarpur, I cover India-Nepal border news and activities of cross-border smuggling of arms, fake currency and narcotics, Integrated custom check post, Terrorist activities, college and university news, Civic, cultural affairs, flood and drought, agriculture news, Irrigation system, sports and other spot news.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBageshwar Baba Dhirendra Shastri’s Brother Arrested For Firing At Farmer In Madhya Pradesh’Abhishek Has Done No Wrong’: Mamata Banerjee Defends Nephew Amid TMC Rebellion“Party Is Sinking”: Mamata’s Loyalist Crosses Over To Ritabrata Camp; TMC Crack Deepens’Serious Risk’ To India’s Largest Nuclear Plant Kudankulam After Files Leaked On Dark Web: ReportRahul Gandhi Steps In As Punjab Congress Infighting Threatens 2027 Election PreparationsExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PAC123Photostories5 long-haired dog breeds that win hearts with their looks and personalityLooking for better health? Repeat these 10 powerful affirmations every dayWorld’s 10 most peaceful countries in 2026: Safe, scenic and travel-friendlyEye doctor reveals the 7 everyday habits they never skip to protect their vision, and why these simple daily choices matter9 Vastu Tips to Attract Love into Your LifeWhy the Adhar Pana prasad of Jagannath Rath Yatra is spilled on the floor and humans are forbidden to consume itYoung, slim, and feeling perfectly fine? Why more Indians are being diagnosed with prediabetes without any warning signsThese 5 giant pet cats are so big, people mistake them for wild animals10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adults123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseLeo CarlssonTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war Jul 16, 2026, 06:54 IST Tata Motors pips M&M to regain No 2 ranking ‘I shouldn’t have done it’: Paresh Rawal regrets calling Anupama Chopra ‘Miss Irrelevant’ over her ‘Dhurandhar’ review Numerology Predictions Today, July 16, 2026: Read your personalised forecast for numbers 1 to 9 “His current condition….”: Lionel Messi’s wife Antonela Roccuzzo breaks silence with heartfelt message amid family health update Oil prices extend gain for fourth day, stay beyond $85 amid Middle East chaos Representative image MUMBAI: Home Credit India Finance, a subsidiary of TVS Holdings, signed a share purchase agreement on Wednesday, to acquire Varthana Finance which specialises in lending for education, in an all-cash deal valued at Rs 967 crore.The transaction will result in Varthana becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Home Credit India, and a step-down wholly owned subsidiary of TVS Holdings after completion. Besides Home Credit, TVS group has a presence in financial services through TVS Credit Services, with offerings across consumer, retail, and commercial finance.The acquisition is expected to help diversify the portfolio, improve business mix, and create synergies in distribution, technology, and risk management.The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to conclude within nine months from the execution of the SPA. The transaction is in the non-banking financial services sector and aims to expand the acquirer’s presence in secured and longer-tenure lending.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBageshwar Baba Dhirendra Shastri’s Brother Arrested For Firing At Farmer In Madhya Pradesh’Abhishek Has Done No Wrong’: Mamata Banerjee Defends Nephew Amid TMC Rebellion“Party Is Sinking”: Mamata’s Loyalist Crosses Over To Ritabrata Camp; TMC Crack Deepens’Serious Risk’ To India’s Largest Nuclear Plant Kudankulam After Files Leaked On Dark Web: ReportRahul Gandhi Steps In As Punjab Congress Infighting Threatens 2027 Election PreparationsExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PAC123Photostories5 long-haired dog breeds that win hearts with their looks and personalityLooking for better health? Repeat these 10 powerful affirmations every dayWorld’s 10 most peaceful countries in 2026: Safe, scenic and travel-friendlyEye doctor reveals the 7 everyday habits they never skip to protect their vision, and why these simple daily choices matter9 Vastu Tips to Attract Love into Your LifeWhy the Adhar Pana prasad of Jagannath Rath Yatra is spilled on the floor and humans are forbidden to consume itYoung, slim, and feeling perfectly fine? Why more Indians are being diagnosed with prediabetes without any warning signsThese 5 giant pet cats are so big, people mistake them for wild animals10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adults123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseLeo CarlssonTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war Updated: Jul 16, 2026, 07:05 IST India-UK trade deal: British cars get cheaper but Scotch has to wait Quote of the day by Emilia Clarke: ‘Success isn’t about being perfect; it’s about getting back up every time you fall,’ a life lesson by the star of ‘Ponies’ highlighting why it is important to refuse to stop Government hikes export duty on diesel to Rs 15.5/litre, ATF to Rs 14.5/litre File photo: Ficci president Anant Goenka Ficci president Anant Goenka, who is the vice-chairman of the RPG Group, believes that the economic momentum is sustaining, especially after oil prices moderated. He tells TOI that the trade deals are positive and it is now for industry to take advantage of it. Excerpts:What is your assessment of the first quarter performance of the corporate sector?Overall demand continues to be robust and growth remains good. So, despite inflationary impact, the positive momentum that we saw post GST 2.0 continues to be good: a good 3-4% uplift on the previous baseline levels. Margin impact is going to be there, but it will be fairly mixed. Sectors that have seen generally good momentum would be automotive, banking, telecom. IT remains under pressure. But on margin side, particularly manufacturing sector, there is stress and it will continue, possibly, into Q2, because of inventory.How much uncertainty is there because of what happens to the US tariffs as the 10% tariffs will be removed this month?Section 301 will also bring in around a similar level of tariff, 10-12%. It’s an important relationship for us and we are working closely. What I understand is that we are looking at a competitive advantage and that’s where we are holding on, but it’s really the last leg of discussions. It is our largest export market and Indian exporters are also diversifying into other markets and trade deals are being implemented.The UK FTA kicked in on Wednesday, and there are others in the pipeline. Is industry prepared in terms of capacity addition and other things to meet the additional demand?The potential is very large. A lot of B2B partnership connections have been established and it will get more intense when these agreements get going. Once industry sees around 80% capacity utilisation, it goes for the next level of capacity. I don’t think capacity is going to be going up saying, okay, FTA is coming in.The few areas of focus for us will be making sure, from a business side, we are working on building relationships, quality improvement. It is from the business side that we have to really work on making sure that we convert these agreements into actual action. Once these frameworks are set, we will be able to take advantage of it. We have a very small share of UK imports, and there is tremendous opportunity for us across sectors, be it textiles or footwear or other sectors. The other thing is the comprehensiveness of this agreement really makes it a model agreement for all. It’s just not trade, but movement of people, social security benefits, IP protection, review mechanisms.Overall capacity addition has been a concern for govt. Do you see a pickup or will the war impact it?Last year, private capex was around Rs 6 lakh crore. So, investment continues. The point is, just the uncertainty that happened because of the war and inflation, although GST injected a lot of momentum. In my own company, whatever we anticipated by 2028-29 is already happening. So, we are going ahead with substantially more capex than we had planned as demand is exceeding supply.There are concerns of goods being dumped from China. Is there a need to step up trade defence mechanism, such as anti-dumping duty?There is fair amount of overcapacity, particularly in China, and we are seeing increased dumping. There are industries where DGTR has been able to establish injury because of dumping. A large share of those (recommendations) have not been accepted, or have been rejected. From industry side, it would be good to get some more clarity on the reason for rejection.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBageshwar Baba Dhirendra Shastri’s Brother Arrested For Firing At Farmer In Madhya Pradesh’Abhishek Has Done No Wrong’: Mamata Banerjee Defends Nephew Amid TMC Rebellion“Party Is Sinking”: Mamata’s Loyalist Crosses Over To Ritabrata Camp; TMC Crack Deepens’Serious Risk’ To India’s Largest Nuclear Plant Kudankulam After Files Leaked On Dark Web: ReportRahul Gandhi Steps In As Punjab Congress Infighting Threatens 2027 Election PreparationsExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PAC123Photostories5 long-haired dog breeds that win hearts with their looks and personalityLooking for better health? Repeat these 10 powerful affirmations every dayWorld’s 10 most peaceful countries in 2026: Safe, scenic and travel-friendlyEye doctor reveals the 7 everyday habits they never skip to protect their vision, and why these simple daily choices matter9 Vastu Tips to Attract Love into Your LifeWhy the Adhar Pana prasad of Jagannath Rath Yatra is spilled on the floor and humans are forbidden to consume itYoung, slim, and feeling perfectly fine? Why more Indians are being diagnosed with prediabetes without any warning signsThese 5 giant pet cats are so big, people mistake them for wild animals10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adults123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseLeo CarlssonTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war Jul 16, 2026, 06:41 IST ILO: 100 crore covered under social security Prithviraj Sukumaran to Dhanush: Actors who wore many hats; singers, directors, producers and more Aquarius Horoscope Today, July 16, 2026: Do not borrow money today Leonardo DiCaprio once left a €50,000 tip for a waiter in France, a gesture that brought the server to tears | English Movie News June jobless rate remains at 5.5%, but women find it hard to get work ‘I Play Rocky’ trailer drops: Anthony Ippolito as young Sylvester Stallone fights for his film – Watch Lucky Number and Colour Today, 16 July 2026: Know What Your Zodiac Sign Should Use for Good Luck Argentina risk FIFA punishment after Falkland Islands banner during England win celebrations “Erika harmed herself….”: Candace Owens accused of ‘planting dangerous ideas’ after Erika Kirk comments go viral File photo: Supreme Court of India NEW DELHI: Supreme Court has taken exception to the recent order of Patna high court that removing a woman’s salwar and pressing her breasts do not constitute attempt to rape.Patna high court had held that the acts amounted to the offence of outraging a woman’s modesty and quashed a man’s conviction for attempt to rape.The matter was raised before a CJI Surya Kant-led bench by senior lawyer Shobha Gupta, who said such objectionable orders were being passed regularly.Taking note of the high court order passed on July 9, the bench expressed serious concern and said that judges should conduct research and take note of apex court rulings.”It is directed that all courts shall follow the expression contained in the handbook. States to issue instructions to all police stations to follow handbooks while registering FIR and filing chargesheet. We will upload a reasoned judgement also,” the bench said, while approving a report prepared by National Judicial Academy’s expert committee which contains guidelines on judicial sensitivity in sexual offence cases.Supreme Court has been expressing concerns over observations by judges and taken suo motu cognisance in two cases. Last year, Allahabad high court ruled that grabbing a child’s breasts, breaking the drawstrings of her pajamas and attempting to drag her beneath a culvert do not constitute the offence of rape or attempt to rape. In another case, Allahabad high court, while granting bail to an accused in a rape case, said the complainant had “herself invited trouble” by agreeing to go to the applicant’s house after getting drunk.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBageshwar Baba Dhirendra Shastri’s Brother Arrested For Firing At Farmer In Madhya Pradesh’Abhishek Has Done No Wrong’: Mamata Banerjee Defends Nephew Amid TMC Rebellion“Party Is Sinking”: Mamata’s Loyalist Crosses Over To Ritabrata Camp; TMC Crack Deepens’Serious Risk’ To India’s Largest Nuclear Plant Kudankulam After Files Leaked On Dark Web: ReportRahul Gandhi Steps In As Punjab Congress Infighting Threatens 2027 Election PreparationsExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PAC123Photostories5 long-haired dog breeds that win hearts with their looks and personalityLooking for better health? Repeat these 10 powerful affirmations every dayWorld’s 10 most peaceful countries in 2026: Safe, scenic and travel-friendlyEye doctor reveals the 7 everyday habits they never skip to protect their vision, and why these simple daily choices matter9 Vastu Tips to Attract Love into Your LifeWhy the Adhar Pana prasad of Jagannath Rath Yatra is spilled on the floor and humans are forbidden to consume itYoung, slim, and feeling perfectly fine? Why more Indians are being diagnosed with prediabetes without any warning signsThese 5 giant pet cats are so big, people mistake them for wild animals10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adults123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseLeo CarlssonTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war Jul 16, 2026, 06:18 IST New technology helps EPFO clear claims faster Jaaved Jaaferi speaks up on Pranit More row; says society has grown ‘intolerant’ of comedy Pisces Horoscope Today, July 16, 2026: If you’re in a relationship, small plans bring joy Leonardo DiCaprio once left a €50,000 tip for a waiter in France, a gesture that brought the server to tears Clavicular’s Israel visit ends in controversy as IDF sidelines soldier over livestream with controversial streamer File photo: PM Modi with Union home minister Amit Shah NEW DELHI: PM Narendra Modi Wednesday met home minister Amit Shah and BJP chief Nitin Nabin in what was seen as another round of deliberations by the brass over the party’s list of office-bearers.Though there was no official word on the meeting, speculation over party’s expected list of office-bearers and a likely reshuffle in the Union council of ministers has continued for quite some time now.Sources said the new team under Nabin will soon be announced, and an overhaul of organisational bodies at the national level, including its top decision-making body of parliamentary board, is on the cards.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBageshwar Baba Dhirendra Shastri’s Brother Arrested For Firing At Farmer In Madhya Pradesh’Abhishek Has Done No Wrong’: Mamata Banerjee Defends Nephew Amid TMC Rebellion“Party Is Sinking”: Mamata’s Loyalist Crosses Over To Ritabrata Camp; TMC Crack Deepens’Serious Risk’ To India’s Largest Nuclear Plant Kudankulam After Files Leaked On Dark Web: ReportRahul Gandhi Steps In As Punjab Congress Infighting Threatens 2027 Election PreparationsExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PAC123Photostories5 long-haired dog breeds that win hearts with their looks and personalityLooking for better health? Repeat these 10 powerful affirmations every dayWorld’s 10 most peaceful countries in 2026: Safe, scenic and travel-friendlyEye doctor reveals the 7 everyday habits they never skip to protect their vision, and why these simple daily choices matter9 Vastu Tips to Attract Love into Your LifeWhy the Adhar Pana prasad of Jagannath Rath Yatra is spilled on the floor and humans are forbidden to consume itYoung, slim, and feeling perfectly fine? Why more Indians are being diagnosed with prediabetes without any warning signsThese 5 giant pet cats are so big, people mistake them for wild animals10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adults123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseLeo CarlssonTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war ‘Pallichattambi’ on OTT: When and where to stream Tovino Thomas and Kayadu Lohar’s film Tyler Herro puts his lavish $12 million Florida mansion up for sale after blockbuster Milwaukee Bucks trade Supreme Court of India NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to entertain a writ petition filed by one Mohibulla Mondal challenging the Bengal govt’s decision to cancel ration cards of those whose names were deleted from the voter list on the ground of doubtful citizenship following Special Intensive Revision (SIR).Appearing for the petitioner from Nadia district, senior advocate Shadan Farasat told a bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana that ration cards of persons whose names were deleted from the voter list after SIR are being cancelled despite the top court restricting the SIR to electoral roll revision and clarifying that final determination of citizenship would have to be done by the Union government.The bench said since Mondal has already filed an appeal before the tribunal concerned challenging the deletion of his name from the voter list, a favourable outcome of these proceedings would ensure the inclusion of his name in the electoral roll and automatically, the other welfare benefits would follow. It asked the tribunal to decide Mondal’s appeal in two months.However, the bench said it was aware of its earlier order restricting SIR exercise to revision of the poll roll and said the issue of alleged linking of SIR deletion to cancellation of ration cards would have to be challenged in HC.Mondal said he was issued a digital ration card in Jan 2016 in the National Food Security Authority (NFSA) Priority Household category by the Bengal government.He said his right to food and right to life are in jeopardy because of the denial of subsidised food grains through a PDS outlet in his village. Supreme Court asked him to approach the high court.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBageshwar Baba Dhirendra Shastri’s Brother Arrested For Firing At Farmer In Madhya Pradesh’Abhishek Has Done No Wrong’: Mamata Banerjee Defends Nephew Amid TMC Rebellion“Party Is Sinking”: Mamata’s Loyalist Crosses Over To Ritabrata Camp; TMC Crack Deepens’Serious Risk’ To India’s Largest Nuclear Plant Kudankulam After Files Leaked On Dark Web: ReportRahul Gandhi Steps In As Punjab Congress Infighting Threatens 2027 Election PreparationsExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PAC123Photostories5 long-haired dog breeds that win hearts with their looks and personalityLooking for better health? Repeat these 10 powerful affirmations every dayWorld’s 10 most peaceful countries in 2026: Safe, scenic and travel-friendlyEye doctor reveals the 7 everyday habits they never skip to protect their vision, and why these simple daily choices matter9 Vastu Tips to Attract Love into Your LifeWhy the Adhar Pana prasad of Jagannath Rath Yatra is spilled on the floor and humans are forbidden to consume itYoung, slim, and feeling perfectly fine? Why more Indians are being diagnosed with prediabetes without any warning signsThese 5 giant pet cats are so big, people mistake them for wild animals10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adults123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseLeo CarlssonTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war ‘Don’t pap me ever’: Mouni Roy reacts after clash with paparazzi, deletes statement 2022 in mind, Congress may continue with Amarinder Raja Warring as Punjab party chief Brooms before bouquets: Bengal chief minister Suvendu Adhikari at a ‘Swachhata Se Swagat’ drive in Kolkata NEW DELHI: PM Narendra Modi’s visits to states are increasingly being preceded by organised cleanliness drives under the ‘Swachhata Se Swagat’ banner, giving new vigour to a campaign he has long championed.Across BJP-governed states, administrations and party units are converting the familiar pre-VVIP spruce-up into a public campaign. CMs, ministers, lawmakers, civic workers and residents are being mobilised to sweep roads, clear markets and clean ghats and other public spaces before Modi arrives – giving the political welcome a ‘Swachh Bharat’ imprint.The latest rollout is in Haryana, where CM Nayab Saini has launched a statewide drive ahead of Modi’s July 17 visit to Jind. Saini began the exercise in Panchkula by sweeping a market and planting a sapling. Ministers, MPs, MLAs and local representatives have been asked to lead similar drives across districts until the PM’s arrival.The campaign also dovetails with the purpose of Modi’s visit. He is scheduled to flag off India’s first hydrogen-powered passenger train on the Jind-Sonipat route and launch development projects, allowing the state to link the welcome with cleanliness, citizen participation and green mobility.The template gathered visibility during Modi’s June visits to Odisha and WB. Odisha organised cleanliness activities under the slogan before his June 20 programme. Kolkata followed with a six-day operation across all 144 municipal wards and 16 boroughs, involving residents and civic personnel. CM Suvendu Adhikari and other public representatives also joined the exercise at public spaces.Videos of a passenger train running between Madurai and Rameswaram recently went viral after a traveller showed its coach, washrooms and floor remaining remarkably clean even after a 170 km journey. That episode provides an instructive counterpoint to the political campaign.’Swachhata Se Swagat’ can generate attention, marshal administrative resources and place senior netas behind brooms. Its real success, however, will be measured after the cavalcade leaves – by whether the clean roads, stations and public spaces remain that way.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBageshwar Baba Dhirendra Shastri’s Brother Arrested For Firing At Farmer In Madhya Pradesh’Abhishek Has Done No Wrong’: Mamata Banerjee Defends Nephew Amid TMC Rebellion“Party Is Sinking”: Mamata’s Loyalist Crosses Over To Ritabrata Camp; TMC Crack Deepens’Serious Risk’ To India’s Largest Nuclear Plant Kudankulam After Files Leaked On Dark Web: ReportRahul Gandhi Steps In As Punjab Congress Infighting Threatens 2027 Election PreparationsExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PAC123Photostories5 long-haired dog breeds that win hearts with their looks and personalityLooking for better health? Repeat these 10 powerful affirmations every dayWorld’s 10 most peaceful countries in 2026: Safe, scenic and travel-friendlyEye doctor reveals the 7 everyday habits they never skip to protect their vision, and why these simple daily choices matter9 Vastu Tips to Attract Love into Your LifeWhy the Adhar Pana prasad of Jagannath Rath Yatra is spilled on the floor and humans are forbidden to consume itYoung, slim, and feeling perfectly fine? Why more Indians are being diagnosed with prediabetes without any warning signsThese 5 giant pet cats are so big, people mistake them for wild animals10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adults123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseLeo CarlssonTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war “Doing everything to keep her spirits up”: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s latest move leaves Blake Lively facing a painful reality File photo NEW DELHI: People who fail to report births and deaths to authorities within two years may face a stricter registration process under a proposed amendment to the law governing civil registration.The Centre has proposed that births and deaths reported after two years can be registered only on the order of a first-class judicial magistrate, replacing the existing provision under which such cases can be approved by a district magistrate (DM), sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) or executive magistrate.The proposed amendment to the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, piloted by the home ministry, was placed before the Cabinet Wednesday, TOI has learnt.People familiar with the proposal said the objective is to tighten delayed registration and ensure near real-time recording of births and deaths, crucial for policy planning and governance. It will also check misuse through greater scrutiny.Every birth and death must be registered with the local registrar within 21 days through the digital Civil Registration System (CRS). If reported after 30 days but within one year, registration is allowed only with the written permission of the district registrar or another designated authority, on payment of the prescribed fee and submission of a self-attested document.Under Section 13(3), delays beyond one year can currently be authorised by a district magistrate, SDM or executive magistrate with jurisdiction. The proposed amendment would retain this arrangement for delays of up to two years.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBageshwar Baba Dhirendra Shastri’s Brother Arrested For Firing At Farmer In Madhya Pradesh’Abhishek Has Done No Wrong’: Mamata Banerjee Defends Nephew Amid TMC Rebellion“Party Is Sinking”: Mamata’s Loyalist Crosses Over To Ritabrata Camp; TMC Crack Deepens’Serious Risk’ To India’s Largest Nuclear Plant Kudankulam After Files Leaked On Dark Web: ReportRahul Gandhi Steps In As Punjab Congress Infighting Threatens 2027 Election PreparationsExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PAC123Photostories5 long-haired dog breeds that win hearts with their looks and personalityLooking for better health? 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Why more Indians are being diagnosed with prediabetes without any warning signsThese 5 giant pet cats are so big, people mistake them for wild animals10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adults123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseLeo CarlssonTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war Sagittarius Horoscope Today, July 16, 2026: Don’t try to recover past losses in one go US court says Donald Trump’s ‘censorship’ visa policy likely violates free speech Blake Neff blasts Candace Owens’ ‘Russian spy project’ claim, questions evidence behind TPUSA allegations Capricorn Horoscope Today, July 16, 2026: Read every proposal carefully, and protect your energy between important conversations Patrick Mahomes’ silence on sister Mia’s birthday ignites family feud speculation as Brittany Mahomes steals the spotlight File photo NEW DELHI: National Medical Commission has approved 9,911 additional undergraduate seats, taking the country’s total MBBS capacity to a record 1,36,939 for the 2026-27 academic session.The seat matrix released by the regulator also shows 1,27,028 renewed seats apart from the additional ones, approved through new medical colleges and increased intake in existing institutions. The expansion comes at a time when over 22 lakh candidates appear for NEET-UG every year, with the demand for MBBS seats continuing to far exceed availability.Explaining the sharp rise in the number of MBBS seats, Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) president M K Ramesh said the increase was driven by changes introduced under Graduate Medical Education Regulations, 2023.”Earlier, a medical college could apply for an increase in MBBS seats only after its first batch had completed four-and-a-half to five years. Under the 2023 regulations, that restriction has been removed. Colleges can now seek an increase in intake from the second year itself, provided they meet the prescribed norms,” Ramesh told TOI.The approved seat matrix, which excludes Institutes of National Importance such as AIIMS and JIPMER, covers 823 medical colleges across the country, including 441 govt and 382 private institutions, and will form the basis for this year’s counselling. NMC said the matrix could be revised if required following decisions of the Appeal Committee or any other competent authority.With MBBS seats touching a record high, India is expected to expand its medical workforce. The Centre estimates the country’s doctor-population ratio at 1:811, compared with the widely cited benchmark of one doctor per 1,000 population.But NMC also warned medical colleges against admitting students beyond the sanctioned intake, saying any violation would attract regulatory and penal action under NMC Act, 2019. Colleges have been asked to verify their approved seat matrix before counselling begins and report any discrepancies to MARB.Of the 9,911 additional MBBS seats, 2,400 are in 25 newly established medical colleges (seven govt and 18 private), while the remaining 7,511 have come from enhanced intake in existing colleges. Private institutions accounted for nearly 79% of the additional seats approved this year.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosBageshwar Baba Dhirendra Shastri’s Brother Arrested For Firing At Farmer In Madhya Pradesh’Abhishek Has Done No Wrong’: Mamata Banerjee Defends Nephew Amid TMC Rebellion“Party Is Sinking”: Mamata’s Loyalist Crosses Over To Ritabrata Camp; TMC Crack Deepens’Serious Risk’ To India’s Largest Nuclear Plant Kudankulam After Files Leaked On Dark Web: ReportRahul Gandhi Steps In As Punjab Congress Infighting Threatens 2027 Election PreparationsExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PAC123Photostories5 long-haired dog breeds that win hearts with their looks and personalityLooking for better health? Repeat these 10 powerful affirmations every dayWorld’s 10 most peaceful countries in 2026: Safe, scenic and travel-friendlyEye doctor reveals the 7 everyday habits they never skip to protect their vision, and why these simple daily choices matter9 Vastu Tips to Attract Love into Your LifeWhy the Adhar Pana prasad of Jagannath Rath Yatra is spilled on the floor and humans are forbidden to consume itYoung, slim, and feeling perfectly fine? Why more Indians are being diagnosed with prediabetes without any warning signsThese 5 giant pet cats are so big, people mistake them for wild animals10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adults123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseLeo CarlssonTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war Updated: Jul 16, 2026, 05:12 IST