Important Days

 

Important National and International Day, Latest Update for Competitive Exams.

Global Tourism Resilience Day – February 17

Global Tourism Resilience Day is observed annually on February 17. It was established to highlight the importance of building a tourism sector that can withstand crises such as pandemics, natural disasters, economic shocks, and climate change. The day serves as a global call to action for governments, businesses, and travelers to prioritize sustainable and adaptable tourism practices.

📖 Background & Significance

  • Origins: The initiative was spearheaded by the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC), with strong support from the United Nations and international tourism bodies.
  • Purpose: To strengthen tourism’s ability to recover quickly from disruptions while continuing to foster economic growth, cultural exchange, and environmental sustainability.
  • Global Impact: Tourism is a major source of income, employment, and foreign exchange for many countries, especially developing nations and small island states. Resilient tourism ensures these economies remain stable even during crises.

World Wetlands Day is observed every year on 2 February

World Wetlands Day is observed every year on 2 February to commemorate the signing of the Ramsar Convention in 1971. In 2026, the theme is “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage”, highlighting the deep connections between wetlands, communities, and cultural practices. Wetlands are lifelines for biodiversity, climate resilience, and human livelihoods.

🌍 What is World Wetlands Day?

  • Date: Celebrated annually on 2 February.
  • Origin: Marks the adoption of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (1971, Ramsar, Iran).
  • Purpose: Raise awareness about the ecological, cultural, and economic importance of wetlands.

🌱 Theme for 2026

  • “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage”
  • Focuses on how wetlands have historically supported human settlement, spirituality, craftsmanship, and food production.
  • Recognizes indigenous and local knowledge systems that have safeguarded wetlands for generations.

🌊 Why Wetlands Matter

  • Biodiversity: Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems, home to countless species.
  • Climate Regulation: They store vast amounts of carbon, helping mitigate climate change.
  • Water Security: Wetlands filter water, recharge aquifers, and prevent floods.
  • Livelihoods: Millions depend on wetlands for fishing, farming, and cultural practices.
  • Cultural Heritage: Wetlands are living landscapes shaped by traditions and sustainable practices.

📌 Highlights from World Wetlands Day 2026

  • India: Union Minister Bhupender Yadav emphasized wetlands as “lifelines of the planet,” placing communities and cultural heritage at the center of conservation.
  • Manipur: Launch of a Wetlands Virtual Museum and recognition of climate-resilient villages.
  • Youth Engagement: Hackathons, symposiums, and student-led initiatives in Navi Mumbai showcased innovation in urban ecology.

Parakram Diwas: Honoring Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose

Parakram Diwas is celebrated every year on 23rd January to honor Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s unmatched courage, leadership, and contribution to India’s freedom struggle. Instituted by the Government of India in 2021, the day is observed as a tribute to his indomitable spirit and patriotism.

🌟 Meaning and Significance

  • Parakram Diwas (Day of Valour) commemorates the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, one of India’s most revered freedom fighters.
  • The word Parakram translates to valor or courage, symbolizing Bose’s fearless pursuit of independence.
  • It is not just a remembrance but a national call to inspire citizens, especially the youth, to emulate his bravery and dedication.

📜 Historical Context

  • Netaji was born on 23 January 1897 in Cuttack, Odisha.
  • He founded the Indian National Army (INA), also known as Azad Hind Fauj, and established the Azad Hind Government in exile.
  • His leadership challenged colonial rule and gave Indians a sense of empowerment and unity against British domination.

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Raising Day : 19 January

NDRF Raising Day is celebrated every year on 19 January to honor the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), India’s premier disaster management unit formed in 2006 under the Disaster Management Act. It is a day of gratitude, pride, and reflection on the force’s lifesaving contributions.

🌐 Background and Significance

  • Formation: The NDRF was established in 2006 as a specialized force to respond to natural and man-made disasters.
  • Purpose: It was created to provide a dedicated, professional, and swift response to emergencies like floods, earthquakes, cyclones, landslides, and industrial accidents.
  • Raising Day: Observed annually on 19 January, it commemorates the inception of the force and highlights its achievements.

🚨 Structure and Deployment

  • Battalions: The NDRF currently has 16 battalions, drawn from paramilitary forces such as BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB.
  • Locations: These battalions are strategically based at 68 locations across India, chosen according to vulnerability and disaster-prone zones.
  • Specialization: Personnel are trained in search and rescue, medical aid, chemical and nuclear disaster response, and community awareness programs.

Army Day 2026 Celebrated in Jaipur

The 78th Army Day was celebrated on 15 January 2026 in Jaipur, commemorating the 1949 appointment of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief. The 2026 theme, “Year of Networking and Data Centricity,” highlighted the Army’s focus on modernization, digital integration, and network-centric warfare.

For the first time, the parade was held outside a cantonment, at Mahal Road, Jagatpura, featuring combat demonstrations, modern equipment, and the debut of the Bhairav Battalion, along with a “Know Your Army” exhibition.

Army Day honors soldiers’ sacrifices, strengthens national pride, and showcases the Army’s roles in defense, disaster relief, peacekeeping, and nation-building. The celebration blends tradition with modernization, reflecting India’s journey toward self-reliance in defense.

Armed Forces Veterans’ Day (14 January)

Armed Forces Veterans’ Day is observed every year on 14 January to honour the service, sacrifice, and contributions of India’s military veterans. The day marks the retirement anniversary of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa in 1953, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army after Independence, making it a symbolic tribute to the armed forces.

The observance aims to recognize veterans of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, support Veer Naris (war widows) and families of ex-servicemen, and strengthen the bond between serving personnel and retired soldiers. Events are held nationwide through Rajya and Zila Sainik Boards, featuring rallies, welfare help desks, grievance counters, and wreath-laying ceremonies. Major gatherings often take place in Delhi Cantonment (Manekshaw Centre), Pune, and other military stations.

National Youth Day 2026: Celebrating Swami Vivekananda’s Legacy

National Youth Day is observed every year on 12 January in India to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, one of the country’s greatest spiritual leaders, philosophers, and youth icons. The day aims to inspire young people to follow his ideals of character-building, knowledge, discipline, and nation-building.

📅 Historical Background

  • In 1984, the Government of India declared 12 January as National Youth Day.
  • The first official celebration took place on 12 January 1985.
  • The decision was based on Swami Vivekananda’s lasting influence on youth empowerment and his contribution to Indian thought and culture.

👤 About Swami Vivekananda

  • Born: 12 January 1863, Kolkata
  • Original Name: Narendranath Datta
  • Key Contribution: Introduced Indian philosophy and Vedanta to the Western world through his iconic speech at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago (1893).
  • Mission: Awakening spiritual and social consciousness; service to humanity.
  • Legacy Organizations: Ramakrishna Mission and Ramakrishna Math

Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas 2026 Observed Globally as a Non-Convention Year

Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (PBD) is celebrated every year on January 9 to honour the contributions of the global Indian diaspora. The day commemorates the return of Mahatma Gandhi to India on 9 January 1915, marking a major historical milestone.

Since 2015, PBD conventions have been held biennially, with the 18th edition hosted in Bhubaneswar in January 2025, and the next scheduled for 2027.

In 2026, PBD was observed as a non-convention year, with Indian embassies and missions worldwide organizing local events instead of a central gathering in India. The celebrations highlighted diaspora contributions to culture, economy, global partnerships, and nation-building.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings and described overseas Indians as “Rashtradoots” (ambassadors of the nation). Discussions emphasized the diaspora’s role in international networking, cultural diplomacy, innovation, and economic collaboration.

World Braille Day: Awareness for Inclusive Education and Accessibility

World Braille Day is observed every year on 4 January to raise awareness about the importance of Braille as a means of communication for people who are blind or visually impaired. The day marks the birth anniversary of Louis Braille, the French educator who developed the Braille system in the 19th century.

Braille is a tactile writing system that uses raised dots to represent letters, numbers, and symbols, enabling visually impaired individuals to read, write, and access education independently. It plays a crucial role in inclusive education, equal opportunities, and social empowerment.

The United Nations officially recognized World Braille Day to highlight that access to information is a fundamental human right. On this day, governments, educational institutions, and social organizations emphasize the need for accessible learning materials, assistive technologies, and inclusive policies.

Veer Baal Diwas: Honouring the Martyrdom of Sahibzadas (26 December)

Veer Baal Diwas is observed every year on 26 December to honour the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s younger sons, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji, who refused to abandon their faith and chose sacrifice over submission at a very tender age. The day commemorates their unparalleled courage, devotion, and commitment to righteousness.

The younger Sahibzadas—Zorawar Singh (9) and Fateh Singh (7)—were captured by Mughal forces and pressured to renounce Sikhism. They stood firm and were bricked alive at Sirhind Fort, a defining moment of bravery in Sikh history. Veer Baal Diwas serves as a tribute to their sacrifice and inspires the nation with values of truth, resilience, and moral strength.

Observed nationwide, the day includes prayers, educational programmes, exhibitions, and cultural events, keeping their legacy alive among youth. The day also sees discussions around renaming it as Sahibzade Shahadat Diwas, emphasizing martyrdom. Veer Baal Diwas stands as a reminder that even children can become eternal symbols of courage and faith.

Good Governance Day 2025: Honouring Atal Bihari Vajpayee

Good Governance Day is observed every year on 25 December to commemorate the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, one of India’s most respected statesmen, poets, and visionary leaders. Declared by the Government of India in 2014, the day underscores the principles of accountability, transparency, efficiency, and citizen-centric governance, values that defined Vajpayee’s political and administrative philosophy.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee, born on 25 December 1924, served as Prime Minister of India three times and played a pivotal role in shaping modern India through inclusive governance, democratic values, and institutional strengthening. His leadership witnessed landmark initiatives such as the Pokhran-II nuclear tests (1998), the Golden Quadrilateral highway project, and major economic and telecom reforms, reflecting his commitment to national security and development.

National Farmers Day (Kisan Diwas): 23 December

National Farmers Day, also known as Kisan Diwas, is observed annually on 23 December in India to recognise the vital contribution of farmers to the country’s economy, food security, and rural development. The day marks the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, India’s fifth Prime Minister, who is remembered for his strong advocacy of farmers’ rights and pro-rural policies.

The observance highlights farmers as the backbone of the nation and reflects on Charan Singh’s legacy, including his opposition to exploitative land policies and efforts toward equitable land reforms, better agricultural pricing, and improved rural credit systems.

National Mathematics Day 2025: Celebrating the Legacy of Srinivasa Ramanujan

National Mathematics Day is observed every year on 22 December to commemorate the birth anniversary of Srinivasa Ramanujan, one of India’s greatest and most influential mathematicians. The day highlights the importance of mathematics in scientific advancement, innovation, and everyday life.

The observance was instituted by the Government of India in December 2011, officially designating 22 December as National Mathematics Day in recognition of Ramanujan’s extraordinary contributions to number theory, mathematical analysis, and infinite series. To further promote mathematical learning and research, 2012 was celebrated nationwide as the National Mathematics Year.

Vijay Diwas : India’s Historic Victory in the 1971 War

Vijay Diwas is observed every year on 16 December to mark India’s historic victory in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, which led to the liberation of Bangladesh. The war began on 3 December 1971 and lasted only 13 days, making it one of the shortest and most decisive wars in history.

The conflict arose from a severe humanitarian crisis in East Pakistan, where atrocities forced millions of refugees to flee into India. Responding to this crisis, India intervened. On 16 December 1971, Pakistan’s Eastern Command, led by General A.A.K. Niazi, surrendered unconditionally along with 93,000 troops to the Indian Armed Forces and the Mukti Bahini—one of the largest military surrenders since World War II.

The victory resulted in the creation of Bangladesh and significantly altered South Asian geopolitics. Vijay Diwas symbolizes India’s military strength, strategic leadership, and humanitarian commitment.

India Celebrates Navy Day 2025 with Grand Operational Demonstration in Kerala

Navy Day 2025 was celebrated on 4 December, honouring the role, achievements, and maritime strength of the Indian Navy.
The date commemorates the success of Operation Trident (1971), when the Indian Navy sank four Pakistani vessels, including PNS Khaibar.

In 2025, the celebrations included a grand Operational Demonstration at Shangumugham Beach, Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), showcasing frontline warships, coordinated manoeuvres, and advanced naval capabilities.
The event highlighted India’s vision of the MAHASAGAR initiative and the Navy’s role as the Preferred Security Partner in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

World AIDS Day Observed on December 1 to Raise HIV/AIDS Awareness

World AIDS Day is observed annually on December 1 to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, remember those who have died, and support people living with HIV. Established in 1988 by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations, it is the first global health awareness day.

The theme for 2025 is “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response,” focusing on strengthening healthcare systems, ensuring funding, addressing inequalities, and supporting community-led initiatives to end AIDS by 2030.

While scientific progress—such as antiretroviral therapy (ART), preventive tools like PrEP, and ongoing research toward a functional cure—offers hope, challenges like stigma, discrimination, and reduced funding continue to hinder progress worldwide.

In India, one of the largest HIV programs globally, awareness campaigns, improved ART access, and increased conversations around prevention methods are helping tackle both urban and rural challenges.

World AIDS Day serves as a reminder to promote education, testing, treatment access, and dignity for affected individuals—reinforcing global commitment toward ending AIDS as a public health threat.

Children’s Day (Bal Diwas) – 14 November

Children’s Day is celebrated every year in India on 14 November to honor the birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India. Nehru was fondly called “Chacha Nehru” because of his deep love and affection for children, believing that they are the foundation of a strong and progressive nation.

The day emphasizes the importance of child rights, education, health, and overall development. Schools and organizations across the country conduct cultural programs, competitions, and activities to make children feel special and to spread awareness about their welfare.

Children’s Day serves as a reminder to protect children from exploitation, ensure equal opportunities, and help them grow into responsible and capable citizens of the future.

World Diabetes Day (14 November)

World Diabetes Day is observed every year on 14 November, marking the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, the co-discoverer of insulin. The 2025 theme is “Access to Diabetes Care”, highlighting the need for equitable treatment, early diagnosis, and global awareness.

Diabetes is a chronic disease caused by insufficient insulin or the body’s inability to use it effectively. The main types are Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational diabetes. Globally, over 530 million people are living with the condition, with India having the second-highest number of diabetics. About 50% of adults with diabetes remain undiagnosed.

Diabetes significantly increases the risk of blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, and stroke. Prevention through healthy lifestyle, timely screening, and access to essential medicines like insulin is critical. Awareness campaigns, healthier habits, and advocacy for affordable care are key to reducing its impact worldwide.

Uttarakhand State Foundation Day 2025: Silver Jubilee Celebrations

Uttarakhand celebrated its State Foundation Day on 9 November 2025, marking the Silver Jubilee (25 years) of its formation. On this occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid foundation stones for development projects worth over ₹8,000 crore at the Forest Research Institute, Dehradun. These projects cover key sectors such as water supply, irrigation, education, energy, urban development, sports, and skill training.

PM Modi also released ₹62 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana to benefit over 28,000 farmers, and issued a commemorative postage stamp. In his address, he praised Uttarakhand’s progress over 25 years and highlighted the efforts of the “double-engine government” in driving the state’s growth and realizing its full potential.

Vigilance Awareness Week 2025 from October 27 to November 2

Vigilance Awareness Week 2025 is being observed across India from October 27 to November 2 under the theme “Vigilance: Our Shared Responsibility” (सतर्कता: हमारी साझा जिम्मेदारी). Organized by the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), the observance aims to promote integrity, transparency, and accountability in public life.

The week coincides with the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (October 31) and emphasizes participative and preventive vigilance through public outreach. Various government departments, PSUs, and institutions are organizing activities like integrity pledges, seminars, rallies, and competitions to raise awareness.

The campaign underscores that vigilance is not just the task of authorities but a collective civic duty essential for ethical governance and a corruption-free society.

Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) on October 31

Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) is observed annually on October 31 to mark the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s Iron Man who unified 562 princely states after Independence. The 2025 celebration, held at Ekta Nagar in Gujarat, is of special significance as it marks Patel’s 150th birth anniversary.

The event features a grand parade and cultural festival with participation from Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), State Police, and NCC cadets. Highlights include cavalry and camel-mounted contingents, martial arts displays, and performances by women personnel from CISF and CRPF. The Guard of Honor to the Prime Minister will be led by a female officer, symbolizing women’s empowerment.

Indigenous dog breeds like the Rampur Hound and Mudhol Hound (“Riya”) will perform demonstrations. The celebration will also include Assam Police’s motorcycle stunts, BSF’s Camel Band, and a Surya Kiran air show by the Indian Air Force.

State and UT tableaux will showcase the theme “Unity in Diversity,” while brass bands and cultural performances by 900 artists will highlight India’s heritage. Gallantry award winners from BSF and CRPF will be honored for bravery in anti-Naxal and counter-terror operations.

From November 1–15, 2025, Bharat Parv will be hosted in Ekta Nagar, featuring cultural programs, food festivals, and will conclude with Birsa Munda Jayanti celebrations, emphasizing national unity, cultural diversity, and patriotism.

Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Raising Day: October 24

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) celebrates its Raising Day on October 24, marking its establishment in 1962 after the India-China war. Tasked with guarding the 3,488 km India-China border across extreme Himalayan terrains from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh, ITBP personnel serve at altitudes between 9,000 and 18,700 feet under harsh weather conditions.

Their responsibilities include border patrols, disaster relief, rescue operations, and internal security duties. On Raising Day, the force displays its skills through parades and demonstrations, while gallantry awards honor its heroes and martyrs. Beyond border security, ITBP also contributes to mountaineering, skiing, and community welfare in remote regions. The day stands as a tribute to the bravery, resilience, and dedication of these “Guardians of the Himalayan Frontiers.”

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty – October 17

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, observed on October 17, highlights global efforts to end poverty and uphold the rights and dignity of the poor.

It began on 17 October 1987, when Father Joseph Wresinski led a gathering in Paris to honor victims of poverty. The UN General Assembly later recognized it officially in 1992 through Resolution 47/196.

The day supports Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1) – End poverty in all its forms everywhere.

Theme 2025: “Supporting Families, Ending Maltreatment” – focusing on strengthening family support and fighting institutional neglect.

Events worldwide include awareness campaigns, policy dialogues, and tributes to those affected. Despite progress, 700 million people still live in extreme poverty, reminding the world that poverty is both an economic and human rights issue.

National Security Guard (NSG) Raising Day – October 16

National Security Guard (NSG) Raising Day is observed every year on October 16 to commemorate the formation of India’s elite counterterrorism and special operations force, known as the Black Cats.

The NSG was established on October 16, 1984, after Operation Blue Star, to combat terrorism and ensure internal security. It functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs and is renowned as the “Zero Error Force” for its precision, discipline, and courage.

The day honors the valor and sacrifices of NSG personnel through ceremonies, parades, and tributes at its main base in Manesar, Haryana.

Key Operations:

  • Operation Black Tornado (2008) – Mumbai terror attacks
  • Akshardham Temple attack (2002)
  • Pathankot Airbase attack (2016)

World Mental Health Day 2025

World Mental Health Day is observed every year on 10 October to raise awareness and promote global action for mental well-being. The 2025 theme — “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies” — focuses on ensuring mental health support for people affected by conflicts, displacement, natural disasters, and health crises.

The day was first initiated by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992 and is supported by the World Health Organization (WHO). It reminds us that mental health is essential to overall health and that stigma must be reduced through awareness and care.

Research shows that 1 in 5 people may experience mental health issues during or after emergencies. However, only 2% of global health budgets are dedicated to mental health, limiting access to crucial care.

Indian Air Force Day 2025 – 93rd Anniversary Celebrations at Hindon Air Base

On October 8, 2025, India celebrated the 93rd Air Force Day at Hindon Air Base, Ghaziabad, honoring the courage, legacy, and advanced capabilities of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The theme for 2025, “Operation Sindoor,” highlighted the IAF’s decisive role in protecting national security through successful air strikes after the Pahalgam attack.

The event featured a grand parade, flypast showcasing aircraft like Rafale, Su-30MKI, MiG-29, Apache, and C-17 Globemaster, and a farewell to the MiG-21 Bison after six decades of service. Indigenous systems like Netra AEW&C and Akash Missile System were also displayed.

The IAF, founded on October 8, 1932, continues to embody its motto “नभः स्पृशं दीप्तम्” (“Touch the Sky with Glory”), symbolizing strength, precision, and unwavering dedication to the nation.

10th National Ayurveda Day 2025 Celebrated at AIIA Goa

The 10th National Ayurveda Day was celebrated on 23 September 2025 at AIIA Goa, inaugurated by Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav. The theme is “Ayurveda for People, Ayurveda for Planet”, highlighting health and sustainability.

Key highlights include the National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards, launch of the DRAVYA Portal, Desh ka Swasthya Parikshan campaign, new healthcare facilities at AIIA Goa, MoUs for research and collaborations, and release of major publications like Ayurveda for Sports Medicine and Ayurveda Insight for Restful Sleep.

The celebration integrates awards, research, innovation, and public outreach to strengthen Ayurveda’s role in modern healthcare.

International Day of Peace 2025

The International Day of Peace is observed annually on 21 September, established by the United Nations in 1981 to promote global harmony, dialogue, and nonviolence.

The 2025 theme is “Act Now for a Peaceful World”, highlighting the urgent need for concrete actions to end conflicts, tackle injustice, address climate challenges, and reduce inequality.

International Day of Democracy (15 September 2025)

International Day of Democracy (15 September 2025) marks the 18th global observance of people-powered governance, emphasizing the importance of free expression, participation, and inclusion. UN Secretary-General António Guterres praised citizens worldwide for defending democracy amid challenges like disinformation and shrinking civic space.

A special UN event themed “From Voice to Action” celebrated 20 years of the UN Democracy Fund (UNDEF), which has supported over 1,000 initiatives to strengthen civil society, gender equality, transparency, and the rule of law. The day highlights democracy as a force for hope, dignity, cooperation, and peace.

Hindi Diwas (14 September) – Celebrating India’s Official Language

Hindi Diwas (14 September) marks the day in 1949 when the Constituent Assembly adopted Hindi in Devanagari script as India’s official language.

It celebrates not just the language, but also unity, identity, and cultural pride. Observed nationwide through poetry, essays, and cultural programs, the day highlights Hindi’s role in connecting communities and enriching India’s literary and cultural heritage.

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