Important Days

 

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

Guru Ravidas Jayanti – February 12, 2025

Guru Ravidas Jayanti is a significant festival celebrated in North India, particularly in Punjab, to mark the birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas, a renowned saint and poet. Also known as Bhagat Ravidas, he was a prominent figure in the Bhakti movement and is revered for his teachings on equality, human rights, and devotion.

Guru Ravidas was born in 1377 CE in the village of Seer Govardhanpur in Uttar Pradesh. Despite his humble origins, he dedicated his life to spreading messages of social reform and spiritual enlightenment. His poetry is included in the Guru Granth Sahib, and he was recognized as a spiritual guide by Meera Bai.

The festival is observed on the full moon day (Purnima Tithi) in the month of Magh, which falls on February 12, 2025 this year. Devotees celebrate by singing Gurbani, performing special prayers, and organizing Nagarkirtans (processions). A grand celebration is held at the Shri Guru Ravidass Janam Asthan Mandir in Seer Govardhanpur, Varanasi.

World Cancer Day 2025 theme: ‘United by Unique’

World Cancer Day is observed on February 4th every year. This year’s theme is “United by Unique”, which emphasizes a people-centered approach to cancer care. The campaign aims to highlight the importance of personalized treatments and support systems for cancer patients, acknowledging that each person’s experience is unique.

The campaign encourages open discussions about cancer to reduce stigma and create a supportive environment for those affected. It also stresses the need for compassionate, individualized care to improve outcomes and quality of life.

15th National Voters’ Day on January 25, 2025

India celebrated the 15th National Voters’ Day on January 25, 2025. This day marks the foundation of the Election Commission of India (ECI) in 1950 and aims to encourage voter participation and raise electoral awareness.

The theme for this year was “Nothing Like Voting, I Vote for Sure”, emphasizing the importance of voting. President Droupadi Murmu graced the event in New Delhi, where the Best Electoral Practices Awards were presented to state and district officials. The celebration also highlighted the significant strides made in creating a youthful and gender-balanced electoral roll, with 99.1 crore registered voters, including 21.7 crore young voters aged 18-29.

National Girl Child Day celebrated annually on January 24

National Girl Child Day is celebrated annually on January 24 in India. This special day aims to raise awareness about the rights of the girl child and promote their welfare and education. The celebration underscores the importance of equal opportunities for girls in various fields such as education, health, and employment.

Established by the Ministry of Women and Child Development in 2008, National Girl Child Day seeks to address the challenges and discrimination faced by girls in India. It promotes gender equality and advocates for a world where every girl child can achieve her full potential. Activities and events held on this day emphasize the need to eliminate gender biases and foster an environment where girls can thrive.

The day is marked by various programs and initiatives, including awareness campaigns, educational seminars, and community activities, all aimed at uplifting and empowering girls. It serves as a reminder of the progress made and the work still needed to ensure a brighter, more equitable future for all girl children in India.

Parakram Diwas – January 23rd: Birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose

Parakram Diwas 2025 is celebrated on January 23rd to honor the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, one of India’s most esteemed freedom fighters. This year marks the 128th birth anniversary of Netaji, who was born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha.

The day is also known as Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti or the Day of Valor. It commemorates Bose’s extraordinary efforts and leadership in the fight for India’s independence. The Government of India officially designated January 23 as Parakram Diwas in 2021 to honor his indomitable spirit and pivotal role in India’s freedom movement.

Army Day Celebrations on January 15

Army Day is celebrated annually on January 15 to honor the soldiers and acknowledge their contributions to the nation’s security. The day commemorates the historic moment in 1949 when General KM Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, taking over from General Sir FRR Bucher, the last British Commander-in-Chief.

The celebration includes parades and military events across the country, with the main parade now held in different cities each year. Army Day is an opportunity to celebrate the bravery and dedication of the soldiers who protect the country’s borders and contribute to peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts.

National Youth Day- January 12th: Celebrating the Spirit of Vivekananda

National Youth Day is celebrated on January 12th each year in India. This day commemorates the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, a key figure in the Indian liberation struggle known for his teachings on youth empowerment.

The day aims to:

Inspire youth in their journey of self-development and societal contributions.
Promote Vivekananda’s values of harmony and brotherhood.
Encourage young minds to channel their energy towards nation-building and personal growth.

The celebration includes youth seminars, cultural activities, and educational events aimed at fostering a spirit of positivity and progressiveness.

Veer Baal Diwas, December 26: Commemorating Sacrifice and Celebrating Youth Achievements

Veer Baal Diwas is observed annually on December 26.

Purpose: The day honors the bravery and sacrifice of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s younger sons, Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh.

Historical Significance: In 1704, the Sahibzadas were captured and pressured to renounce their Sikh faith. They refused and were martyred by being bricked alive at Sirhind, Punjab.

Declaration: Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared December 26 as Veer Baal Diwas in 2022 to commemorate their sacrifice.

2024 Celebrations: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the event at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, and launch the Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan to enhance nutritional outcomes across India.

Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar: President Droupadi Murmu will confer the award on 17 children for exceptional achievements in seven categories in New Delhi. The children hail from 14 states and UTs.

  • Categories: Art and culture, bravery, innovation, science and technology, social service, sports, and the environment.
  • Awards: Each awardee will receive a medal, certificate, and citation booklet.

Good Governance Day on December 25th

Good Governance Day is observed annually on December 25th in India to honor the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Instituted in 2014 by the Narendra Modi government, this day aims to promote transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public administration.

Significance

Good Governance Day highlights the importance of ethical leadership and responsible governance. It serves as a reminder for both leaders and citizens to uphold high standards of governance to ensure sustainable development and public welfare.

Celebrations

The day is marked by various initiatives and activities, including:

  • Awareness Campaigns: Programs focusing on digital transformation, participatory democracy, and responsive public services.
  • Educational Activities: Schools, colleges, and government organizations host debates, speeches, and workshops to encourage youth participation in nation-building.
  • Inspirational Messages: Quotes by Atal Bihari Vajpayee are shared to inspire ethical governance and public service.

National Consumer Day: December 24

National Consumer Day is observed annually on December 24. The day aims to raise awareness about consumer rights and responsibilities.

Historical Significance: The day commemorates the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act 1986, which received presidential assent on December 24, 1986.

Consumer Rights: The act grants consumers the right to be protected, informed, heard, and to seek redressal against unfair trade practices.

2024 Theme: The theme for National Consumer Day 2024 is “Virtual Hearings & Digital Access to Consumer Justice”.

Key Initiatives: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi launched several initiatives, including the Jago Grahak Jago App, Jagriti App, and Jagriti Dashboard to protect consumers from deceptive online practices.

Rastriya Kisan Diwas (National Farmers’ Day) on December 23rd

Rastriya Kisan Diwas (National Farmers’ Day) is celebrated annually on December 23rd in India.

Purpose: To honor farmers’ contributions, raise awareness about agriculture, and address farmers’ challenges.

Historical Significance: First observed in 2019 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, the 5th Prime Minister of India and a strong advocate for farmers’ rights.

Celebration Activities: Includes farmers’ fairs, seminars, and cultural programs across the country.

Q. Rastriya Kisan Diwas (National Farmers’ Day) marks the birth anniversary of which Indian Prime Minister?

a) Indira Gandhi
b) Lal Bahadur Shastri
c) Chaudhary Charan Singh
d) Rajiv Gandhi

c) Chaudhary Charan Singh
Rastriya Kisan Diwas (National Farmers’ Day) commemorate the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, the 5th Prime Minister of India and a strong advocate for farmers’ rights.

First-ever World Meditation Day on Dec 21, 2024

World Meditation Day is observed on December 21st each year.

UN Recognition: The United Nations General Assembly designated December 21st as World Meditation Day in 2024.

Purpose: The day aims to raise awareness about the benefits of meditation for mental and physical health.

Global Event: The first World Meditation Day was celebrated with a global event at the UN Headquarters in New York, led by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

Theme: The theme for the inaugural event was “Meditation for Global Peace and Harmony”.

Benefits: Meditation is known to reduce stress, improve focus, enhance emotional balance, and promote overall well-being.

Historical Roots: Meditation has ancient roots in religious, yogic, and secular traditions across various cultures.

Modern Practice: Today, meditation is practiced worldwide and is recognized as a tool for personal well-being and mental health.

WHO Support: The World Health Organization acknowledges the significant benefits of meditation, particularly mindfulness meditation.

Collective Well-being: Beyond individual benefits, meditation fosters empathy, collaboration, and a sense of shared purpose.

Q. When is World Meditation Day observed?

a) January 1st
b) June 21st
c) December 21st
d) October 10th

Ans: b) June 21st
World Meditation Day is observed on December 21st each year.

International Mountain Day observed annually on December 11th

International Mountain Day is observed annually on December 11th to raise awareness about the significance of mountains and the challenges they face. This year, the theme is “Mountain Solutions: Innovation, Adaptation, and Youth for a Sustainable Future”, highlighting the crucial role of innovative solutions, adaptive practices, and youth involvement in ensuring a sustainable future for mountain environments and communities.

Mountains cover 27% of the Earth’s land surface and provide essential resources, such as fresh water, biodiversity, and climate regulation. However, they are threatened by climate change, deforestation, and overexploitation.

Human Rights Day is observed annually on December 10th

Human Rights Day is observed annually on December 10th to commemorate the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. This day serves as a reminder of the fundamental rights and freedoms that every individual is entitled to, regardless of nationality, race, gender, religion, or any other status.

The UDHR, a landmark document in human rights history, outlines a broad range of rights and freedoms that form the foundation of international human rights standards. It includes rights such as the right to life, liberty, and security of person; freedom from torture and slavery; the right to a fair trial; freedom of thought, conscience, and religion; and the right to education, among others.

Human Rights Day is a day to reflect on the progress made in upholding these rights and to recognize the ongoing challenges that still exist.

Navy Day 2024: December 4th

Navy Day 2024 is celebrated on December 4th to honor the bravery and commitment of naval forces. This year, the event will be held in Puri, Odisha, with President Droupadi Murmu as the chief guest.

The theme for Navy Day 2024 is “Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenisation”, highlighting the Indian Navy’s focus on self-reliance and cutting-edge technology.

The day commemorates the success of Operation Trident, a significant naval mission during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. On December 4, 1971, the Indian Navy launched a surprise attack on Karachi, crippling Pakistan’s key port and asserting India’s naval prowess.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD): December 3rd

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed annually on December 3rd to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development. This day aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and to advocate for their full and equal participation in social, economic, political, and cultural life.

Established by the United Nations in 1992, IDPD focuses on various themes each year, addressing different aspects of disability inclusion. The themes often highlight issues such as accessibility, inclusion, employment, education, and empowerment of people with disabilities.

Key objectives of IDPD include:

  • Raising Awareness: Highlighting the barriers that people with disabilities face and promoting solutions to overcome them.
  • Promoting Rights: Advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities as enshrined in international law, such as the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
  • Encouraging Inclusion: Promoting the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all areas of life, including education, employment, and community activities.
  • Celebrating Achievements: Recognizing the contributions and achievements of people with disabilities in various fields.

Border Security Force (BSF) Raising Day: December 1

The Border Security Force (BSF) celebrated its 60th Raising Day on December 1, 2024. This day marks the anniversary of the force’s formation in 1965.

History and Facts about the BSF

  • Formation: The BSF was established on December 1, 1965, in the wake of the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965. The need for a specialized force to guard India’s borders became evident after Pakistan attacked Sardar Post, Char Bet, and Beria Bet in Kutch.
  • First Director General: K F Rustamji, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, was the first Director General and founding father of the BSF.
  • Motto: The BSF’s motto is “Jeevan Paryant Kartavya”, which translates to “Duty Unto Death”.
  • Role: The BSF is responsible for guarding India’s land borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh. It is the world’s largest border security force, with a sanctioned strength of 270,000 personnel.
  • Capabilities: The BSF has grown from 25 battalions in 1965 to 193 battalions today, including an air wing, water wing, artillery regiment, and specialized units.
  • Operations: Apart from border guarding, the BSF also engages in counter-insurgency operations, anti-Naxal operations, and internal security duties. They have been involved in various operations, including the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 and the Kargil War.

Q,: When was the Border Security Force (BSF) established?

a) March 1, 1962
b) April 1. 1963
c) December 1, 1965
d) January 1, 1969

Ans : c) December 1, 1965
The Border Security Force (BSF) celebrated its 60th Raising Day on December 1, 2024. This day marks the anniversary of the force’s formation in 1965.

National Milk Day (26 November): Honoring Dr. Verghese Kurien, the Father of the White Revolution in India

National Milk Day was celebrated on 26 November 2024 to honor the 103rd birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, known as the Father of the White Revolution in India. This day highlights the remarkable growth in milk production, especially in Gujarat, the heart of India’s White Revolution.

Over the past 22 years, Gujarat’s milk production has increased by 119.63 lakh metric tons, with an average growth rate of 10.23%—outpacing the national growth rate. The state now contributes 7.49% of India’s total milk production. There has also been an unprecedented rise in the per capita availability of milk in Gujarat during this period.

The Amul Federation, which started with 6 member unions and a turnover of Rs. 49 crore, now includes 18 member unions. It collects over 3 crore liters of milk daily, producing and distributing dairy products not only across India but also in about 50 countries. The Amul model has become a globally recognized example of a self-reliant dairy development model, benefiting livestock farmers’ socio-economic growth.

75th Anniversary of the Adoption of the Indian Constitution: Campaign Tagline ‘Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Swabhimaan’

The Government of India has announced year-long celebrations, beginning November 26, 2024, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Indian Constitution. These celebrations, under the campaign tagline “Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Swabhimaan” (Our Constitution, Our Pride), will run until November 26, 2025, honoring the Constitution adopted on November 26, 1949, which came into effect on January 26, 1950.

A grand event will be held at the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan, where President Droupadi Murmu will address both Houses of Parliament. Activities will be organized nationwide, including at village and district levels, focusing on the core values of the Constitution and the contributions of its makers. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasized the celebration as a collective national effort, while Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal highlighted Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s significant role and the contributions of 15 women in the Drafting Committee.

Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, Birth Anniversary of Birsa Munda

Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, also known as Tribal Pride Day, is celebrated annually on November 15th in India. This day was officially designated in 2021 to honor the contributions and sacrifices of India’s tribal communities, especially their role in the country’s freedom struggle.

The day marks the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, a revered tribal leader and freedom fighter who led a significant uprising against British colonial rule in the late 19th century. His efforts and those of other tribal leaders like the Santhals, Tamars, Kols, Bhils, Khasis, and Mizos, are commemorated on this day.

Janjatiya Gaurav Divas aims to celebrate the rich cultural heritage, history, and contributions of tribal communities to India’s development. Various events and activities are organized across the country to foster unity, pride, and recognition of their significant contributions.

In recent years, the day has also been used to launch development projects and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of tribal communities, such as the PM Janman Yojana, which focuses on the development of settlements for the most backward tribes.

Children’s Day in India is celebrated on November 14th each year

Children’s Day in India is celebrated on November 14th each year. This special day is dedicated to celebrating children and recognizing their importance in society. The date was chosen to honor the birthday of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, who was born on November 14, 1889. Nehru was known for his deep affection for children and his belief that they are the future of the nation. He was often referred to as “Chacha Nehru” by children, which means “Uncle Nehru.”

The significance of Children’s Day lies in promoting the rights, care, and education of children. It serves as a reminder of the importance of providing children with a nurturing environment in which they can grow, learn, and thrive. On this day, various programs and activities are organized across the country in schools, colleges, and communities to celebrate the joy and innocence of childhood. These activities often include cultural performances, competitions, and recreational events.

World Diabetes Day is observed every year on November 14th

World Diabetes Day is observed every year on November 14th. It was established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in response to the growing concerns about the escalating health threat posed by diabetes. The day aims to raise awareness of diabetes, its prevention, and the care needed to manage it.

The date was chosen to mark the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin along with Charles Best in 1922. Insulin is a crucial treatment for diabetes, transforming the lives of millions of people around the world.

National Education Day is celebrated in India on November 11

National Education Day is celebrated in India on November 11 each year to emphasize the importance of education and recognize efforts toward making quality education accessible to all. This day honors the legacy of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India’s first Education Minister, born on November 18, 1888, and posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1992 for his significant contributions to the nation.

Azad was a freedom fighter, scholar, and visionary who laid the foundation for India’s modern education system. He was instrumental in establishing key institutions, including the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), the University Grants Commission (UGC), and India’s first Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Kharagpur, supporting advancements in higher and technical education.

Under his leadership, various cultural and educational institutions, such as the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Sahitya Akademi, Lalit Kala Akademi, and Sangeet Natak Akademi, were founded to promote Indian culture and research. Azad’s vision extended to inclusive education, focusing on universal primary education, adult literacy, and education for the rural poor, particularly girls.

Azad saw education as a fundamental right and a vehicle for social progress, advocating for it as a tool for national empowerment. His contributions continue to influence India’s education policy, emphasizing inclusivity and progress.

National Cancer Awareness Day: November 7

National Cancer Awareness Day is observed annually on November 7, aiming to raise awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. Established in 2014, this day highlights the importance of public education on cancer and emphasizes early intervention to improve survival rates.

It coincides with the birth anniversary of Marie Curie, whose discoveries of radium and polonium have significantly contributed to cancer treatment. On this day, free screenings are offered at municipal clinics, government hospitals, and CGHS facilities to encourage early detection.

Unity Day- October 31st, birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

Unity Day, also known as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, is celebrated in India on October 31st each year to honor the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the country’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister. Known as the Iron Man of India, Patel played a crucial role in the political integration of India by merging over 560 princely states into the Union of India.

The day is marked by various events, including the Run for Unity, where people from all walks of life participate in marathons to symbolize the unity and integrity of the nation. Government officials, students, and citizens come together to take a pledge to preserve the unity, integrity, and security of the country.

Unity Day serves as a reminder of Patel’s vision and efforts to create a united India, and it continues to inspire people to work towards national integration and harmony.

Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) celebrated its 63rd Raising Day on October 24, 2024

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) celebrated its 63rd Raising Day on October 24, 2024. This special occasion commemorates the formation of the ITBP, which plays a crucial role in safeguarding India’s borders along the Himalayas.

The day is marked by various events, including a grand parade showcasing the diverse skills of ITBP personnel, such as women contingents, ski units, mounted columns, paratroopers, mountaineering teams, and dog squads.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders extended their greetings and praised the ITBP for their valour and dedication in protecting the nation under harsh conditions.

United Nations Day, observed annually on October 24

United Nations Day, observed annually on October 24, celebrates the founding of the United Nations in 1945 when the UN Charter came into force. Established post-World War II, the UN was created to foster global peace, security, and cooperation.

The charter drafting began on April 25, 1945, with representatives from 50 countries gathering in San Francisco; it was adopted on June 25 and formally enacted on October 24. United Nations Day highlights the organization’s crucial role in international diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and global development.

International Day of the Girl Child : October 11

The International Day of the Girl Child is celebrated annually on October 11. This day was established by the United Nations in 2011 to recognize girls’ rights and the unique challenges they face worldwide. 

The theme for 2024 is “Girls’ vision for the future”, highlighting the need for urgent action and the hope driven by girls’ voices and aspirations.

Indian Air Force celebrates 92nd Raising Day on 8 October 2024

The 92nd Raising Day of the Indian Air Force was celebrated on 8 October 2024 at Tambaram Air Force Station near Chennai, marking the first time the event was held there. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan hoisted the flag, while Chief of Air Staff A.P. Singh inspected the parade and presented awards for distinguished performance.

The event celebrated achievements like the successful hosting of the largest multi-lateral exercise Tarang Shakthi after 61 years, with participation from over 30 nations. The Air Force’s role in humanitarian efforts and disaster relief was also praised. The celebration included a special parade and performances by the Suriya Kiran and Tarang teams, attended by former defense chiefs, military officials, and veterans.

International Day of Non-Violence – 2 October

The International Day of Non-Violence is marked on 2 October, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence.

The General Assembly, in a resolution adopted on 5 June 2007, established the commemoration, the International Day as an occasion to disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness.

Contributions to India’s Independence

His leadership in the Champaran and Kheda Satyagrahas, the Salt March, and the Quit India Movement galvanized millions to join the freedom struggle without resorting to violence. His philosophy of Satyagraha (truth and non-violence) became a powerful tool for social and political change.

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