Current Affairs 21 March 2026
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National Dental Commission
Government Constitutes National Dental Commission (NDC)
- The Government of India has established the National Dental Commission (NDC) on March 19, 2026.
- It replaces the Dental Council of India (DCI), marking a major reform in dental education and healthcare.
- The reform aims to ensure transparency, accountability, and global standards in dental education.
- Three autonomous boards have been created:
- Undergraduate & Postgraduate Dental Education Board
- Dental Assessment and Rating Board
- Ethics and Dental Registration Board
- The Dentists Act, 1948 has been repealed with the introduction of the NDC.
- The Commission will regulate education standards, assess institutions, regulate fees, and establish professional ethics.
- The National Dental Commission Chairperson: Dr. Sanjay Tewari
History
Mahad Satyagraha Centenary (1927–2027)
- The Mahad Satyagraha was led by B. R. Ambedkar on March 20, 1927 at Mahad (Maharashtra).
- It was a historic movement asserting the right of Dalits to access public water sources, especially the Chavdar Tank.
- The protest challenged untouchability and caste-based discrimination, making it a key milestone in India’s social justice movement.
- The event later influenced constitutional provisions like Article 15 (non-discrimination) and Article 17 (abolition of untouchability).
- The centenary (100 years) will be observed on March 20, 2027, with calls for nationwide reflection on equality and dignity.
- Unlike the Salt Satyagraha, it addressed internal social injustice within Indian society.
History
Tributes Paid to Veerangana Rani Avantibai Lodhi on Martyrdom Day
- Rani Avantibai Lodhi was a brave queen of Ramgarh (present-day Madhya Pradesh).
- She played a key role in the Revolt of 1857, leading resistance against the British.
- After her husband’s death, she took charge and opposed British annexation under the Doctrine of Lapse.
- She attained martyrdom on March 20, 1858, choosing sacrifice over surrender.
- Minister of Home Affairs, paid tribute, highlighting her as a symbol of patriotism and women empowerment.
Ranks and Reports
Andhra Pradesh Tops Consumer Justice Ranking 2026
- Andhra Pradesh ranked 1st among large and mid-sized states in the Consumer Justice Report 2026.
- The report was part of the India Justice Report, assessing consumer redressal systems.
- AP showed minimal staff shortage in District Consumer Commissions.
- AP recorded the lowest long-pending cases (4.75%) and achieved 93% case disposal (2020–2024).
- Around 19,000 cases were filed, with insurance complaints being the highest.
- The performance highlights efficient consumer grievance redressal in the state.
Awards and Honours
Union Minister Jitendra Singh Receives Lifetime Achievement Award in Medicine & Diabetes
- Dr Jitendra Singh was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award in Medicine & Diabetes at MVCON 2026 in Chennai.
- The award recognises his contribution as a medical professional, author, and advocate for diabetes care and public health.
- This is his second Lifetime Achievement Award, after receiving a similar honour in July 2024.
Person in News
Vikram K. Doraiswami Appointed as India’s Ambassador to China
- Vikram K. Doraiswami has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to China.
- He is currently serving as the High Commissioner of India to United Kingdom.
- He will succeed Pradeep Kumar Rawat, the current Ambassador to China.
- The appointment was announced by the Ministry of External Affairs.
Person in News
Anutin Charnvirakul Becomes Prime Minister of Thailand
- Anutin Charnvirakul has been re-elected as the Prime Minister of Thailand.
- He assumed office again on March 19–20, 2026 after winning a parliamentary vote.
- He is the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party.
- Thailand capital: Bangkok
- Thailand currency: Thai Baht
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