1. PM Modi Inaugurates Lower Kopili Hydro Power Project
On March 13, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Lower Kopili Hydroelectric Project (LKHEP) in Assam. This project is a major step toward making the Northeast self-reliant in energy and fulfilling India's renewable energy commitments.
- Exam-Centric Facts:
- Capacity: The project has an installed capacity of 120 MW.
- Location: Situated on the Kopili River (a major south-bank tributary of the Brahmaputra) in the districts of West Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao, Assam.
- Type: It is a run-of-river hydropower project.
- Funding: The project received significant financial support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
- Implementing Agency: Developed by the Assam Power Generation Corporation Limited (APGCL).
2. Chapchar Kut Festival 2026: Mizoram
The traditional spring festival Chapchar Kut was celebrated with great fervor across Mizoram, with the main event held at Lammual, Aizawl, on March 13, 2026.
- Exam-Centric Facts:
- Significance: It is the biggest and most joyful festival of the Mizos, celebrated after the completion of Jhum clearing (cutting of forest for shifting cultivation).
- Theme 2026: "Zo Nun Ze Mawi – Inremna" (The Beauty of Zo Culture: Harmony).
- Kut Pa: Chief Minister Lalduhoma attended as the 'Kut Pa' (Father of the Festival).
- Cultural Highlight: The festival is famous for the Cheraw (Bamboo Dance), along with other traditional dances like Khuallam, Chheihlam, and Sarlamkai.
- Timing: It is observed annually in March, during the period between the clearing of the forest and the burning of the debris.
3. Constitution of the National Dental Commission (NDC)
In a major healthcare reform, the Government of India officially constituted the National Dental Commission (NDC) on March 19, 2026, replacing the 78-year-old Dental Council of India (DCI).
- Exam-Centric Facts:
- Legal Basis: The commission was established under the National Dental Commission Act, 2023, which repealed the Dentists Act, 1948.
- Leadership: Dr. Sanjay Tewari has been appointed as the first Chairperson of the National Dental Commission.
- Structure: The NDC includes three autonomous boards:
- Undergraduate and Postgraduate Dental Education Board.
- Dental Assessment and Rating Board.
- Ethics and Dental Registration Board.
- Key Reforms: The NDC aims to streamline dental education, implement a National Exit Test (Dental) for licensing, and regulate fees for 50% of seats in private dental institutions.
- Headquarters: The NDC Secretariat is headed by Arindam Modak as Secretary.
