Recently, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister highlighted the anti-defection law’s key role in protecting democracy during a 2024 political crisis.
Anti-defection Law
The Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, commonly known as the anti-defection law introduced in India in 1985 through the 52nd Constitutional Amendment.
It was aimed at curbing rampant party-switching by legislators that often destabilised elected governments and undermined democratic mandates.
The infamous “Aaya Ram, Gaya Ram” phenomenon epitomised the unethical political culture, where legislators frequently switched allegiances for personal gain undermining voter trust and destabilising governments.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued revised guidelines for the Biomass Programme under Phase-I of the National Bioenergy Programme, applicable for the period FY 2021–22 to 2025–26.
What is Biomass?
Biomass refers to organic material derived from plants and animals, and it includes: forestry waste, residue from agricultural operation, processed waste from industry, municipal/urban solid waste.
Annual Biomass production in the Country is around 750 MMT, out of which 228 MMT is surplus Biomass.
June 30 is observed as Hul Diwas, marking the anniversary of the 1855 Santhal rebellion/ Santhal Hul, one of the earliest peasant uprisings against the British.
Santhal Hul
Santhal Hul of 1855 was a revolt against imperialism led by four brothers, Sidho, Kanho, Chand, and Bhairav Murmu, along with sisters Phulo and Jhano.
The Santhals also fought against the upper castes, zamindars, darogas, and moneylenders, described by the umbrella term ‘diku’.
Significance: The rebellion led to the enactment of the Santhal Parganas Tenancy Act of 1876 and the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act of 1908, which aimed to safeguard tribal land rights and cultural autonomy.
