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Raipur, June 26: Chhattisgarh has taken the first formal step towards exploring the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state, officials said on Thursday.

The move is aimed at examining legal, social, and administrative aspects related to the possible introduction of a common civil law framework governing personal laws.

Officials said the process will involve consultations with legal experts, stakeholders, and civil society representatives to assess the feasibility and implications of such a reform.

The initiative marks the beginning of a structured review process, with the state government seeking to understand how a Uniform Civil Code could be framed and implemented in accordance with constitutional provisions.

Further details regarding the composition of committees or timelines for the exercise are expected to be announced in due course.

The development is seen as an initial step in evaluating policy options related to civil law uniformity in the state.

Gandhinagar, June 26: Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to launch the ‘Bharat Taxi’ initiative and the ‘PM Family Care Tracker’ pilot project during his upcoming visit to Gujarat, officials said on Thursday.

The initiatives are aimed at strengthening citizen-centric services through technology-driven platforms and improving accessibility of essential services for the public.

The ‘Bharat Taxi’ initiative is expected to focus on enhancing organised transport services, while the ‘PM Family Care Tracker’ pilot project will aim to improve coordination and monitoring of family welfare-related services through a digital framework.

Officials said both projects reflect the government’s continued emphasis on digital governance, efficiency, and improved service delivery mechanisms for citizens.

The pilot rollout will be closely monitored before being expanded further based on feedback and performance assessment.

Further details regarding the launch programme and operational framework of the initiatives are expected to be announced during the Gujarat visit.

New Delhi, June 26: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has revised passport application fees, with new charges set to come into effect from July 1.

Under the revised structure, applicants for a 36-page passport will now pay ₹2,500, while the Tatkal service fee has been increased to ₹5,000.

For a 60-page passport, the fee has been revised to ₹3,500, with the Tatkal charge set at ₹6,000.

In cases of lost or damaged passports, the replacement fee for a 36-page passport has been fixed at ₹5,000, while Tatkal processing will cost ₹7,500. For a 60-page passport, the replacement fee will be ₹6,000, and the Tatkal fee will be ₹8,500.

Officials said the revised fee structure is part of periodic updates aimed at streamlining passport services and aligning charges with administrative requirements. The new rates will apply to all applications submitted on or after July 1.

Applicants have been advised to check the updated fee schedule before applying to avoid any inconvenience.

London/Paris, June 26: Several European countries are grappling with an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures soaring to record levels and forcing authorities to shut schools, issue health alerts and implement emergency measures to protect vulnerable populations.

 Representational Imgage

The severe heatwave, driven by a persistent high-pressure system over southern and western Europe, has pushed temperatures well above seasonal averages in countries including Spain, France, Italy, Portugal and Greece. Meteorological agencies have warned that the scorching conditions are likely to persist over the coming days.

Authorities in several regions have ordered the closure of schools or shortened class hours to safeguard students and staff from extreme heat exposure. Outdoor activities have also been restricted in many areas, while hospitals and emergency services remain on high alert amid concerns over heat-related illnesses.

In some parts of southern Europe, temperatures have crossed the 40-degree Celsius mark, breaking previous records for June. The prolonged heat has also heightened the risk of wildfires, prompting governments to deploy firefighting resources and issue warnings to residents in vulnerable areas.

Health officials have urged people, particularly children, the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions, to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, remain hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor activities.

Climate experts have linked the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves to global climate change, warning that extreme weather events are becoming more common across the continent.

The ongoing heatwave has disrupted daily life, affected transportation services and increased electricity demand as millions rely on cooling systems to cope with the soaring temperatures.

New Delhi, June 26: The Centre has notified key changes in the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulations aimed at simplifying compliance requirements for food business operators and improving ease of doing business in the sector.

Officials said the revised framework is designed to reduce procedural burdens while ensuring that food safety and quality standards remain uncompromised. The reforms are expected to streamline approval processes, simplify documentation requirements, and make regulatory compliance faster and more efficient.

The changes are part of a broader effort to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the food sector by reducing regulatory complexity and encouraging greater formalisation of businesses. Authorities noted that the updated norms will also promote a more transparent and predictable regulatory environment.

FSSAI has also strengthened its risk-based regulatory approach, enabling more targeted inspections and monitoring based on the size, nature, and risk profile of food business operators. This is expected to improve enforcement efficiency while reducing unnecessary compliance pressure on low-risk entities.

Industry stakeholders are expected to benefit from clearer guidelines, faster approvals, and improved operational ease across the food supply chain. Officials added that the reforms reflect the government’s continued focus on balancing consumer safety with industry facilitation and promoting a more business-friendly regulatory ecosystem.