Divorce and Alimony in India: Does a High-Earning Wife Still Qualify for Maintenance? A Complete Legal Guide New Delhi: Divorce and alimony disputes have become increasingly common in India as changing social and economic dynamics reshape family relationships. With more women joining the workforce and earning substantial incomes, a common legal question has emerged: If a wife earns significantly more than her husband, is the husband still legally required to pay maintenance or permanent alimony? Legal experts emphasize that there is no universal answer. Indian courts decide maintenance and alimony based on the unique facts and circumstances of each case. The financial status of both spouses, their earning capacity, age, health, duration of marriage, lifestyle, and other relevant factors are carefully evaluated before any order is passed. What is Maintenance and Alimony? Maintenance is financial support awarded by a court to ensure that a financially dependent spouse can meet basic living expenses during or after divorce proceedings. Indian law recognizes different forms of maintenance: Interim Maintenance: Temporary financial assistance granted while the divorce case is pending. Permanent Alimony: A one-time lump sum or regular monthly payment ordered after the divorce is finalized. Child Maintenance: Financial support for the upbringing, education, healthcare, and welfare of children. The objective is not to punish either spouse but to ensure fairness and prevent financial hardship. Does the Person Filing for Divorce Matter? One of the biggest misconceptions is that the spouse who files for divorce automatically becomes liable to pay maintenance. In reality, who files for divorce is generally not the deciding factor. Whether the husband or wife initiates divorce proceedings, the court primarily examines: Financial position of both spouses Ability to earn Existing income Assets and liabilities Standard of living during marriage Dependents Evidence presented before the court Each case is decided on its own facts. If the Wife Earns a High Salary, Can She Still Claim Maintenance? This question frequently arises in modern divorce disputes. Indian courts have repeatedly observed that a wife earning a respectable salary does not automatically lose her right to claim maintenance. However, if she is financially independent and capable of maintaining the same standard of living without assistance, the court may reduce or even deny maintenance depending on the circumstances. A high salary is therefore an important factorâbut not the only factor. Courts may also examine: Cost of living Existing financial obligations Medical expenses Childcare responsibilities Lifestyle maintained during marriage What if the Husband Has Lost His Business or Job? Business losses, unemployment, or financial setbacks are also considered by courts. If a husband demonstrates through credible evidence that he: suffered genuine business losses, has no current source of income, is unable to secure employment due to age or health, the court may take those circumstances into account while deciding maintenance. However, courts generally distinguish between genuine financial hardship and intentional unemployment. If it appears that a spouse is deliberately avoiding employment simply to escape maintenance obligations, the court may draw adverse conclusions. Factors Courts Commonly Consider Family courts generally evaluate multiple aspects before awarding maintenance or alimony, including: Monthly income of both spouses Salary and employment status Business income or losses Bank statements Income Tax Returns Investments and assets Existing loans and liabilities Age of both spouses Physical and mental health Duration of marriage Educational qualifications Future earning capacity Standard of living enjoyed during marriage Custody of children Educational and medical expenses of children Any exceptional financial circumstances No single factor determines the outcome. Can an Unemployed Husband Receive Maintenance? Although maintenance claims are traditionally associated with wives, certain personal laws and legal provisions may permit financially dependent husbands to seek relief under specific circumstances. Such cases are relatively uncommon and depend on: Applicable personal law Nature of the matrimonial proceedings Financial condition of both spouses Relevant statutory provisions Legal experts advise that every case should be evaluated individually. Does the Duration of Marriage Matter? Yes. Courts often consider the length of the marriage while deciding permanent alimony. Generally: Very short marriages may result in little or no permanent alimony. Long-term marriages often receive greater consideration, particularly where one spouse sacrificed career opportunities to support the family. However, there is no fixed formula under Indian law. What Documents Are Usually Required? To determine the financial condition of both spouses, courts commonly require: Salary slips Income Tax Returns Bank statements Property documents Business records Loan statements Investment details Medical reports (if applicable) Children's educational expenses Monthly expenditure statements Providing accurate financial disclosure is essential for a fair determination. Important Indian Laws Governing Maintenance Several statutes govern maintenance and alimony in India, depending on the religion of the parties and the nature of the marriage, including: Section 24 and Section 25 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 (interim maintenance and permanent alimony) Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) for maintenance (now substantially incorporated under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023) Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 Relevant provisions under personal laws applicable to different religious communities The applicable law varies according to the facts of each case. Recent Judicial Approach Indian courts have consistently held that maintenance is not intended to enrich one spouse or punish the other. Instead, courts aim to strike a balance by considering: Financial independence Genuine need Fairness Equality Ability to maintain a dignified standard of living Each decision depends upon the evidence produced before the court. Expert Opinion Family law practitioners note that social and economic realities have changed considerably over the past two decades. Increasing female workforce participation and dual-income households have influenced how courts evaluate maintenance claims. Legal experts advise spouses to maintain complete financial transparency and rely on documentary evidence rather than assumptions. Attempting to conceal income or assets can adversely affect the outcome of the case. Conclusion Maintenance and alimony in India are determined on the basis of fairness rather than gender alone. A spouse's income, financial responsibilities, health, age, earning capacity, and the overall circumstances of the marriage all play significant roles in the court's decision-making process. Neither a high-earning wife nor an unemployed husband automatically determines the outcome. Every matrimonial dispute is unique, and courts assess each case independently after considering all available evidence. Individuals involved in divorce or maintenance proceedings should seek professional legal advice tailored to their specific circumstances. Legal Disclaimer This article is intended solely for informational and educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. The information provided is based on the general principles of Indian family law as of the date of publication. Court decisions depend on the specific facts, evidence, and applicable laws in each individual case. Readers should consult a qualified legal practitioner for advice regarding their particular legal situation. Neither the publisher nor the author shall be responsible for any decisions taken based on this article alone.
Hyderabad: The Forest College and Research Institute (FCRI), Mulugu, Siddipet district, has started the application process for admissions into the B.Sc (Hons) Forestry programme for the 2026â27 academic year. College Dean Praveen announced that applications will be accepted from July 1 to July 25. Students who have qualified in TG EAPCET 2026 and passed Intermediate or its equivalent with BiPC, MBiPC, or MPC streams are eligible to apply for the four-year undergraduate programme. The B.Sc (Hons) Forestry course offers comprehensive academic and practical training in areas such as forest conservation, biodiversity, wildlife management, environmental protection, agroforestry, and natural resource conservation. Students will also receive extensive field training and hands-on practical exposure as part of the curriculum. The Dean stated that graduates of the programme will have promising career opportunities in forest departments, environmental organizations, research institutions, government agencies, and private sector companies. Eligible candidates are advised to submit their applications on or before July 25. For detailed admission guidelines and the application process, students can visit the official FCRI website. They may also contact the institute at 63038 271100, 08454-211939, or 08454-211930 for further information. Also Read:Â AP EAPCET 2026 Results to Be Released on July 2 Instead of Scheduled Date Â
Tollywood has received one of its biggest announcements of the year as  NTR and acclaimed filmmaker Trivikram Srinivas officially reunite for a grand mythological action epic. The prestigious project will be produced under the Haarika & Hassine Creations banner by S. Radha Krishna (Chinababu) and Suryadevara Naga Vamsi. The makers unveiled the project's official announcement along with a striking concept poster carrying the powerful tagline, "The Son of Shiva. The Pride of Parvathi. The Eternal Commander." The poster has gone viral across social media, fueling speculation about the film's storyline and NTR's character. According to industry reports, NTR is expected to portray a powerful divine warrior inspired by Lord Kumaraswamy (Kartikeya/Skanda), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi, and the commander of the celestial army. The film is said to blend mythology with high-octane action, rich storytelling, and modern commercial elements, making it one of the most ambitious projects in Trivikram's career. Reports also suggest that the makers are considering the title "God of War" for the film, although an official confirmation is still awaited. At present, NTR is busy shooting for his upcoming film Dragon, directed by Prashanth Neel. Once that project is completed, this mythological spectacle is expected to go on floors. The production house is likely to reveal more details, including the first glimpse, cast, and technical crew, in the coming weeks. Â
Low Water, High Profits: Top Crops Farmers Can Grow in Water-Scarce Areas Across India Water Shortage No Longer Means Low Income: Experts Recommend Climate-Resilient Crops for Better Returns New Delhi: Water scarcity has emerged as one of the biggest challenges facing Indian agriculture. With irregular monsoons, declining groundwater levels, rising temperatures, and increasing climate variability, farmers across several states are being encouraged to shift from water-intensive crops to drought-tolerant and climate-resilient alternatives. Agricultural experts believe that choosing the right crop based on water availability and soil type can help farmers reduce production costs while maintaining stable yields. Traditionally, crops such as paddy and sugarcane require significant amounts of irrigation. However, in areas where water availability is limited, these crops often become economically risky. Experts recommend adopting crops that require less water, mature quickly, and are capable of withstanding dry weather conditions. Why Water-Efficient Crops Are Becoming Essential Climate experts warn that rainfall patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable. Delayed monsoons and prolonged dry spells have affected sowing in many parts of the country, prompting governments and agricultural departments to encourage farmers to diversify toward water-efficient farming systems. Low-water crops offer several advantages: Lower irrigation costs Reduced dependence on groundwater Better drought tolerance Lower cultivation expenses Stable yields during erratic rainfall Improved soil sustainability Best Crops for Low-Water Farming 1. Millets Millets are among the most drought-resistant crops and are gaining popularity due to increasing consumer demand for healthy foods. Popular varieties include: Pearl Millet (Bajra) Sorghum (Jowar) Finger Millet (Ragi) Foxtail Millet Little Millet Barnyard Millet These crops require substantially less water than rice and perform well under rain-fed conditions. 2. Pulses Pulse crops consume relatively less water while improving soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. Recommended pulses include: Red Gram (Pigeon Pea) Green Gram (Moong) Black Gram (Urad) Chickpea Cowpea Horse Gram Apart from offering good market prices, pulses also enhance soil health for future crops. 3. Oilseed Crops Oilseeds remain a profitable option in dryland farming. Suitable crops include: Groundnut Sesame Sunflower Castor Safflower Many of these crops require moderate irrigation only during critical growth stages. 4. Horticulture Crops With drip irrigation, several fruit crops can provide long-term income. Popular choices include: Pomegranate Guava Custard Apple Indian Gooseberry (Amla) Drumstick (Moringa) Several state governments have also promoted drumstick cultivation in drought-prone regions because of its low water requirement and export potential. 5. Medicinal and Aromatic Crops Farmers seeking diversification may consider: Aloe Vera Ashwagandha Lemongrass Vetiver Senna These crops generally require less irrigation and have growing demand from pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Crop Selection Based on Soil Type Sandy Soil Suitable crops include: Groundnut Sesame Watermelon Muskmelon Guava Cashew Black Cotton Soil Recommended crops: Cotton Pigeon Pea Sorghum Chickpea Sunflower Red Soil Suitable options include: Groundnut Millets Pulses Mango Guava Drumstick Choosing crops according to soil characteristics significantly improves productivity and reduces cultivation risks. Modern Water-Saving Techniques Agricultural scientists recommend integrating crop selection with efficient water management. Key practices include: Drip irrigation Mulching Rainwater harvesting Soil moisture conservation Organic matter incorporation Micro-irrigation systems Scientific nutrient management These techniques can substantially reduce water consumption while maintaining crop productivity. Climate Change Driving New Farming Practices Experts note that climate change is making traditional farming methods increasingly difficult. Several states have already started promoting drought-resistant crops, natural farming, and water-efficient cultivation practices to improve farmers' resilience against uncertain rainfall. Experts' Advice Agricultural experts recommend that farmers should not choose crops solely based on market prices. Instead, they should consider: Annual rainfall Groundwater availability Soil type Local climate Market demand Production cost Water availability throughout the season A scientific crop selection strategy can significantly improve profitability while reducing cultivation risks. Conclusion Water scarcity is expected to remain one of the biggest agricultural challenges in the coming years. However, adopting climate-resilient crops, efficient irrigation methods, and scientific farming practices can help farmers sustain productivity and increase profitability. As climate conditions continue to evolve, experts believe that water-efficient agriculture will play a crucial role in ensuring food security and long-term farm sustainability across India. Disclaimer This article is intended for informational purposes only. Crop suitability may vary depending on local climate, soil characteristics, water availability, and market conditions. Farmers are advised to consult their nearest agricultural extension office or qualified agriculture experts before making cultivation decisions.
Iranâs Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei said âthe face-to-face negotiations that will be held in the future will not mean accepting the enemyâs point of view.â WASHINGTON : The US on Thursday (Jun 18) lifted its blockade of Iran, and oil tankers began freely moving through the Strait of Hormuz after months of being unable to use the critical channel, as the tentative agreement to end the war took effect. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance announced that he may postpone a trip to Switzerland that had been planned for Friday and included a ceremonial signing of the deal. The visit might have helped start talks on the next, potentially even more critical, round of negotiations between the two sides.
Hyderabad: With the aim of strengthening its presence in Telangana, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has intensified its organizational efforts under the guidance of the central leadership. The party is treating the upcoming Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) elections as a crucial political battle, believing that establishing a strong base in Hyderabad will pave the way for success in the next Telangana Assembly elections. As part of this strategy, BJP National President Nitin Nabin is scheduled to visit Telangana for a three-day tour. During his visit, Nitin Nabin will hold a special meeting with GHMC booth-level committee leaders this evening. He is expected to provide guidance on key aspects of election management, booth-level organization, campaign strategy, and candidate selection. Party leaders will also review the shortcomings observed in recent local elections and discuss measures to strengthen the BJP's grassroots network ahead of the upcoming polls. The BJP's immediate objective is to secure victories in the three municipal corporations. The party has already decided to contest the elections independently, without entering into any alliance. Nitin Nabin is expected to advise state leaders to establish a dedicated selection committee to identify strong candidates and ensure that the party fields capable contenders in every division. In addition, the BJP leadership is likely to emphasize the importance of voter list verification, new voter enrollment, booth-level management, and continuous engagement with voters. The party believes that a strong performance in the GHMC elections will significantly enhance its political influence in Telangana and strengthen its prospects of achieving success in the forthcoming Assembly elections.
