Current Affairs - State

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly passed the Legislative Assembly (Allowances and Pension of Members) Amendment Bill 2024, which prevents MLAs disqualified under the anti-defection law from receiving pensions. This legislation was introduced by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and aims to ensure that MLAs disqualified under the Tenth Schedule no longer benefit from pensions, including provisions for recovering pensions already drawn. This measure reflects a commitment to uphold the integrity of the legislative process.

The government of Rajasthan has taken a significant step towards gender equality and women empowerment by approving a 33% reservation for women in the police force. This decision not only aims to enhance sensitivity in handling women's issues but also boosts employment opportunities for women in the state. Additionally, the government has made other inclusive decisions, such as including specially-abled children, siblings, and dependent parents in pension orders, showcasing its commitment to social welfare and equality.

Himachal Pradesh Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania has announced that Zero Hour will be introduced in the state assembly after establishing standard operating procedures (SOPs). This move aims to allow urgent public interest issues to be raised and discussed, with the Speaker having discretion over the issues addressed and responses provided. This development is expected to enhance the assembly's functioning and promote more effective representation of public interests.

The Punjab Apartment and Property Regulation (Amendment) Act, 2024, was passed to prevent unauthorized developments and ease property registration for small landowners. The law aims to regulate illegal colonies, imposing strict penalties for violations, and is considered crucial for public welfare by the Chief Minister. This legislation demonstrates Punjab's efforts to address the issue of illegal colonies and promote orderly development.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has inaugurated a significant Rs 1,347 crore water supply project aimed at providing drinking water from the Sone River to Aurangabad, Dehri, and Sasaram. This project is expected to be completed in two years. Alongside this, Kumar has also launched several other projects, including a state industrial training institute and tech labs, and has allocated funds to various self-help groups. This initiative highlights the state’s commitment to improving infrastructure and public services.