During the 1960 s, African American voting rights received increased protection. The Civil Rights Act of 1960 provided for the appointment of referees to help African Americans register to vote. The 24th Amendment, adopted in 1964, barred poll taxes in federal elections.
Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was the first and longest-serving Prime Minister of India, from 1947 until 1964.
President of India. The President of India is the head of state of the Republic of India. The current president is Pranab Mukherjee, who was sworn in on 25 July 2012. He succeeded Pratibha Patil, the first woman to serve in the office, who was sworn in on 25 July 2007. 'His Excellency' to Go: Prez Approves New Protocol.