Current Affairs 24 March 2026

Agri-Photovoltaics (AgriPV)

• Agri-Photovoltaics (AgriPV) is an innovative system that combines solar power generation with farming on the same land.
• It helps India achieve its renewable energy targets (300 GW solar by 2030) while preserving agricultural land.
• Under schemes like PM-KUSUM, the government is promoting solarisation of agriculture.
• The PM-KUSUM Budget allocation in the 2026-27 budget is nearly ₹5,000 crore.
• AgriPV allows farmers to earn additional income by selling electricity while continuing crop cultivation.
• A proposed National Agri-Photovoltaics Mission (10 GW) may boost large-scale adoption.

15 New Moons Discovered Around Jupiter and Saturn

• The Minor Planet Center (MPC) announced the discovery of 15 new moons.
• Jupiter gained 4 new moons, discovered by Scott Sheppard and David Tholen.
• Saturn gained 11 new moons, discovered by a team led by Edward Ashton.
• The MPC, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, operates under the International Astronomical Union.
• It is responsible for:
  • Tracking asteroids, comets, and moons
  • Assigning official designations to celestial objects
  • Monitoring Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) for planetary safety
• The discovery highlights ongoing advancements in space observation and planetary science.

How Are Moons Formed?

Moons can form in different ways depending on how a planet evolves:

1. Co-formation (Formation with Planet)
   • Moons form from the same gas and dust cloud as the planet.
   • Example: Many moons of Jupiter and Saturn.
2. Capture Theory
   • A planet’s gravity captures a passing asteroid or object, turning it into a moon.
3. Giant Impact Theory
   • A large collision throws debris into space, which later forms a moon.
   • Example: Earth’s Moon.
4. Fragmentation
   • A larger moon or object breaks apart, forming smaller moons.

In outer planets like Jupiter and Saturn, many newly discovered moons are captured objects or fragments.

Debate on Compulsory Voting in India

• The issue of compulsory voting has resurfaced after observations by the Supreme Court during election-related hearings.
• In India, the right to vote is provided under Article 326 and the Representation of the People Act, and is considered a statutory right, not a fundamental right.
• Voting is not compulsory and is neither a fundamental duty nor a legal obligation.
• Committees like the Dinesh Goswami Committee (1990) and the Law Commission (255th Report, 2015) have opposed compulsory voting due to practical and constitutional concerns.
• Countries like Australia, Brazil, and Argentina follow compulsory voting with penalties for non-voters.
• In India, compulsory voting may violate Article 19(1)(a) – Freedom of Expression.
• Experts suggest improving turnout through:
  • Awareness campaigns
  • Better transport facilities
  • Support for migrant voters
  • Exploring remote voting technologies

Shaheed Diwas – 23 March

Shaheed Diwas Observed on March 23 to Honor Freedom Fighters

• Shaheed Diwas (Martyrs’ Day) is observed every year on 23 March in India.
• It commemorates the sacrifice of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev, who were executed by the British in 1931.
• The day honors their contribution to the Indian freedom struggle and their fight against colonial rule.
• It serves as a reminder of the values of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice.
• Various programs, tributes, and awareness activities are conducted across the country.

World Tuberculosis Day – 24 March

• World Tuberculosis Day is observed every year on 24 March to raise awareness about TB and efforts to eliminate it.
• It is one of the official global health campaigns of the World Health Organization.
• The theme for 2026 is “Yes! We can end TB”.
• TB remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
• The day emphasizes early detection, treatment, and global cooperation to eliminate TB.

Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia

• Union Government commemorates the birth anniversary of Ram Manohar Lohia, a prominent freedom fighter and socialist thinker.
• Born on 23 March 1910, Lohia played a key role in the Indian freedom movement, especially during the Quit India Movement (1942).
• He was a strong advocate of social justice, equality, and anti-caste reforms.
• Lohia promoted the idea of “Sapta Kranti” (Seven Revolutions) to bring social and economic transformation.
• He also emphasized the use of Indian languages and decentralization of power.
• His ideas continue to influence Indian politics and social reform movements.