Times of India

Foreign currency deposits saw a significant increase between June and July. Banks aggressively mobilized these funds, taking advantage of RBI incentives. HSBC, SBI, and ICICI Bank led the collection efforts for these deposits. Foreign banks showed the fastest proportional growth in their deposit holdings. Overall, the mobilization was concentrated among the top ten banking institutions.

The government is selling up to 6.5% of LIC shares through an offer for sale. This divestment aims to meet minimum public shareholding norms ahead of schedule. The offer begins Tuesday and closes Wednesday with a base price of Rs 382. Successful sale will raise approximately Rs 31,400 crore for the government. This move contributes significantly to the government's annual disinvestment target.

A suspect was apprehended in Pulwama carrying a hand grenade and anti-national posters. This arrest occurred during a security operation following recent migrant worker killings. Authorities booked the local man under stringent anti-terror laws, including the UAPA. Security forces are increasing patrols and checkpoints across the valley. This intensified security aims to maintain peace and prevent further unlawful activities.

India performed a record 20,138 organ transplants in 2025, a significant increase over previous years. Delhi-NCR led the nation in transplant procedures, while Tamil Nadu topped deceased organ donors. India now ranks third globally in total organ transplants, after the US and China. Deceased donor transplants continue to fall short of the substantial demand for organs. Government initiatives aim to strengthen organ donation and transplant services across the country.

The Supreme Court permitted governments to withdraw cases against student protesters. This move aims to allow students to pursue their studies without prosecution fears. However, cases against individuals with criminal records will not be dropped. The court will also establish guidelines for the use of graded force by police. Discussions on modalities for dropping cases against genuine students are ongoing.

The Census 2027 population enumeration phase begins August 17 in snow-bound northern areas. This phase will capture caste details for the first time since 1931. Parents' date and birthplace will also be recorded as declared by respondents. Passport and Aadhaar numbers may be collected voluntarily during the exercise. The questionnaire for this significant census phase will be notified soon.

Parliament's monsoon session faces potential washout amid opposition demands. Opposition insists on discussing Ram temple donations and police actions. Union ministers criticize opposition for boycotting legislative proceedings. Bills were passed without debate due to the ongoing parliamentary standoff. The government has not yet assured discussions on the opposition's key demands.

The Unified Pension Scheme for central government employees has seen low adoption rates. Only a small percentage of National Pension Trust subscribers have opted for this new scheme. The government introduced UPS with assured pension benefits and gratuity provisions. However, the response has been tepid, prompting an extension of the migration deadline. No changes are currently being considered to replace the Unified Pension Scheme.

The Supreme Court has sought the government's response regarding the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Act. Concerns were raised that the new law might erase existing benefits for transgender individuals. Senior advocates reported that hormone treatment is being denied due to fear of prosecution. They also alleged the discontinuation of the national portal for transgenders. The court questioned the retrospective invalidation of previously issued transgender identity cards.

Government agencies are considering releasing the ARAI study on E20 fuel's impact. This report, submitted in June 2024, studied E10-compatible vehicles. Fuel consumption increased slightly for two-wheelers and cars in the study. Mass emissions met regulatory requirements for all vehicles tested. The release aims to remove misconceptions among vehicle users about E20 fuel.

The FSSAI has prohibited adding rum or whisky flavour to spirits. This practice misrepresents the true nature of alcoholic beverages and misleads consumers. Manufacturers were found using neutral alcohol and adding identical flavouring substances. Several companies, including United Spirits, faced prohibitions and notices. The regulator stressed that characteristic taste should develop naturally through base ingredients.

The Supreme Court has extended legal protection to live-in relationships. These relationships are now covered under Section 498A of the IPC. The court stated that the law must adapt to changing societal norms. Cruelty within such relationships will now be punishable by law. This decision aims to protect women from domestic violence and harassment.

Fifty years ago, American red crayfish were introduced to Spain's Guadalquivir River basin, and they have since established a permanent presence. These aggressive invaders have wreaked havoc on local wildlife and disrupted aquatic ecosystems. Yet, local communities have successfully built an economy around their harvesting and processing. This dependence has sparked legal disputes, resulting in a compromise that permits regulated harvesting, balancing ecological health with economic viability.

The story of Josh Allen illustrates how unwavering support from family and relentless hard work paved his way to NFL greatness. Despite rejections and early criticism, he learned the value of consistency from his father's example. Overcoming injuries and playoff disappointments, Allen's journey reveals that the heart of success often beats stronger in the shadows, driven by family faith.

LeBron James established a scholarship program for Akron students. This initiative helps approximately eleven hundred students attend college. The program stems from his own childhood struggles with financial instability. He never attended college himself, entering the NBA directly after high school. This mission provides a realistic chance for education beyond high school.