Overview On December 8, 2025 , farmers under the banner of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) staged protests across Punjab against the Centre's draft for the Electricity Amendment Bill, 2025 , and the draft for the Seed Bill, 2025 . The primary demand of the protesters was the withdrawal of these bills, citing concerns about their potential impact on the agricultural sector and farmer livelihoods. Key Developments State-wide Protests: The call for protests was given by the SKM , indicating a coordinated effort across Punjab. Union Participation: The protests were joined by employees' unions of the State power utility, showcasing broader support beyond just farmer groups. Symbolic Actions: Protesters burned copies of the proposed bills, symbolizing their strong opposition. Geographic Spread: Protests were held in various locations, including Hoshiarpur (Mukerian, Dasuya, Sham Chaurasi, Marnaian Khurd), Garhshankar, and Mohali, demonstrating widespread discontent. Leadership: The demonstrations were led by leaders from organizations such as the Kirti Kisan Union , Kisan Committee Doaba , Jamhoori Kisan Sabha , Kul Hind Kisan Sabha , and Bharti Kisan Union (Rajewal) . Earlier Actions: A few days prior, the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha held a two-hour 'rail roko' demonstration against the Electricity Amendment Bill, 2025 . Concerns Raised Farmer leaders addressing the gatherings voiced several key concerns: Electricity Amendment Bill: Termed as anti-farmer and anti-people, with allegations that it would lead to the privatization of the power sector and increase the burden on consumers. Seed Bill, 2025: Described as harmful to farmers' interests, with allegations that it sought to reintroduce provisions similar to the three farm laws that were repealed earlier after sustained protests. UPSC Relevance This news article is relevant to the UPSC syllabus under GS2 (Government Policies & Interventions) and GS3 (Agriculture, Infrastructure, Economy) . The protests and the issues raised highlight the ongoing challenges in agricultural policy-making and the importance of addressing farmer concerns. The potential impact of the Electricity Amendment Bill and the Seed Bill on the agricultural sector are crucial areas for analysis. Potential Exam Questions Analyze the reasons behind the farmers' protests against the Electricity Amendment Bill, 2025, and the Seed Bill, 2025. (Mains) Evaluate the potential impact of the privatization of the power sector on the agricultural community in India. (Mains) Discuss the role of farmer organizations in influencing agricultural policy in India. (Mains) What are the key provisions of the Seed Bill, 2025, and why are farmers protesting against it? (Prelims/Mains) Important Facts The protests were organized by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) . The main demands were the withdrawal of the Electricity Amendment Bill, 2025 , and the Seed Bill, 2025 . The Kisan Mazdoor Morcha also held a 'rail roko' demonstration.