Important Days

 

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

International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer : September 16th

The International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is celebrated on September 16th every year. The ozone layer protects the Earth from harmful sun rays. Many chemicals damage the ozone layer. This year’s theme is “Montreal Protocol: Advancing Climate Actions.”

In 1995, the UN General Assembly declared September 16th as International Ozone Day. This day marks the signing of the Montreal Protocol on September 16, 1987. The Montreal Protocol helps reduce harmful chemicals that damage the ozone layer.

Hindi Diwas is celebrated on 14th September

Hindi Diwas is celebrated on 14th September every year to commemorate the adoption of Hindi as one of India’s official languages. On this day in 1949, the Constituent Assembly of India officially recognized Hindi, written in the Devanagari script, as the official language of the Republic of India under Article 343 of the Indian Constitution.

Hindi Day highlights Hindi’s role in unifying the nation’s diverse linguistic culture and was championed by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi. Celebrated in schools, colleges, and government offices, Hindi Diwas features events like debates, essay competitions, and cultural programs. It underscores the importance of promoting Hindi in various fields and preserving its cultural heritage.

International Literacy Day : September 8th

International Literacy Day is celebrated annually on September 8th, established by UNESCO in 1966. It highlights literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights, aiming to build a more literate and sustainable society.

Theme for 2024: “Promoting multilingual education: Literacy for mutual understanding and peace.” The theme emphasizes literacy’s role in fostering mutual understanding, social cohesion, and peace, particularly in multilingual contexts.

UNESCO and global organizations focus on creating educational opportunities, especially in disadvantaged areas, to ensure access to quality education and lifelong learning.

Teachers’ Day : 5th September; Birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan

Teachers’ Day in India is celebrated on September 5th each year to honor the contributions of teachers, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a renowned scholar and the second President of India.

Dr. Radhakrishnan’s dedication to education inspired the celebration in his honor. On this day, students express their gratitude to teachers through various activities.

In 2024, President Droupadi Murmu will confer the National Teachers Award to 82 teachers during the celebration in New Delhi.

Q.: Teachers’ Day in India commemorates the birth anniversary of which Indian leader?

a) Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
b) Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
c) Jawaharlal Nehru
d) Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

Answer: b) Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
Teachers’ Day in India is celebrated on September 5th each year on the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan

Telugu Language Day : August 29

Telugu Language Day, also known as “Telugu Bhasha Dinotsavam,” is observed annually on August 29.

History:

  • The celebration of Telugu Language Day began in 1966.
  • However, the recognition and celebration of the language existed much earlier.
  • Literary personalities like Gidugu Venkata Ramamurthy and Kandukuri Veeresalingam Pantulu played crucial roles in promoting Telugu in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • The day coincides with the birth anniversary of the Telugu poet Gidugu Venkata Ramamurthy.
  • The Andhra Pradesh government officially declared August 29 as Telugu Language Day.

Significance:

  • Telugu is one of the oldest and most vibrant Dravidian languages in India.
  • It is the official language of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
  • The Telugu language’s roots trace back to ancient transcripts and texts, with a documented history spanning over two millennia.
  • Telugu Language Day honors luminaries like Gidugu Venkata Ramamurthy, who preserved and promoted the language internationally.
  • It contributes significantly to Indian literature and preserves the cultural identity of Telugu-speaking communities.

Question: Which Indian states have Telugu as their official language?

A) Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
B) Tamil Nadu and Karnataka
C) Kerala and Maharashtra
D) Odisha and West Bengal

Answer: A) Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
Telugu Language Day, also known as “Telugu Bhasha Dinotsavam,” is observed annually on August 29.

National Sports Day :  August 29th

National Sports Day is celebrated annually on August 29th in India. On this day, we commemorate the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand. In 2012, the Indian government declared his birthday as National Sports Day to honor his immense contributions to sports.

About Major Dhyan Chand:

  • Born in 1905 in a Rajput family in Allahabad, Major Dhyan Chand was a remarkable hockey player.
  • He was part of the Indian hockey team that secured gold medals in the Olympics of 1928, 1932, and 1936.
  • Over his 22-year career, he scored more than 400 goals!

Q.: National Sports Day is celebrated annually on August 29th in India to commemorate the birth anniversary of which famous sportsperson?

a) Milkha Singh
b) P. T. Usha
c) Dhyan Chand
d) Sachin Tendulkar

Answer: c) Dhyan Chand

National Space Day : 23 August

National Space Day is celebrated on August 23 to commemorate the remarkable achievements in space exploration, particularly highlighting India’s advancements. This day was officially declared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 mission on the Moon’s southern polar region on August 23, 2023. The landing site is now known as Shiv Shakti Point.

Significance of National Space Day

  • Celebration of Achievements: It marks India’s status as the fourth country to successfully land on the Moon and the first to reach its southern polar region.
  • Inspiration for Future Generations: The day aims to inspire young minds to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
  • Public Awareness: It enhances public awareness about the importance and benefits of space exploration.

Q.: When is National Space Day celebrated in India?

A) July 20
B) August 23
C) September 15
D) October 4

Ans : B) August 23
National Space Day is celebrated on August 23 to commemorate the remarkable achievements in space exploration, particularly highlighting India’s advancements. 

Q.: What significant event led to the declaration of National Space Day?

A) Launch of Mangalyaan
B) Successful landing of Chandrayaan-3
C) Launch of Gaganyaan
D) Discovery of water on Mars

Ans : B) Successful landing of Chandrayaan-3
This day was officially declared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 mission on the Moon’s southern polar region on August 23, 2023.

World Sanskrit Day observed on Shravana Poornima (19 August 2024)

World Sanskrit Day, or Vishva-Samskrita-Dinam, is celebrated annually to honor the ancient Indian language, Sanskrit. Observed on Shravana Poornima, usually in August, this year it was celebrated on August 19, 2024.

The day emphasizes the revival and preservation of Sanskrit, a language of immense historical and cultural significance in India. Initiated by the Indian government in 1969, World Sanskrit Day features activities like poetry gatherings, seminars, and verse recitation competitions. The celebration often coincides with Raksha Bandhan, highlighting the cultural values embedded in Sanskrit literature.

Q.: When is World Sanskrit Day typically observed?

A) Makar Sankranti
B) Akshaya Tritiya
C) Shravana Poornima
D) Dushara

Answer: C) Shravana Poornima
World Sanskrit Day, or Vishva-Samskrita-Dinam, is celebrated annually to honor the ancient Indian language, Sanskrit. Observed on Shravana Poornima, usually coincides with Raksha Bandhan this year it was celebrated on August 19, 2024.

Partition Horrors Remembrance Day : August 14

Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, also known as Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas, is observed annually on August 14th in India. This day commemorates the victims and the immense suffering endured during the partition of India in 1947.

Historical Context

The partition of British India in 1947 led to the creation of two independent nations, India and Pakistan. This division was marked by intense communal violence, mass displacement, and significant loss of life. It is estimated that between 10 to 20 million people were displaced, and around 200,000 to 2 million people lost their lives.

Significance

The day was first observed in 2021, following an announcement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The purpose of Partition Horrors Remembrance Day is to honor the memory of those who suffered and perished during this tragic period. It serves as a reminder of the need to overcome social divisions and promote unity, social harmony, and human empowerment.

Q.: When is Partition Horrors Remembrance Day observed?

A) August 15th
B) August 14th
C) January 26th
D) October 2nd

Ans : B) August 14th
Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, also known as Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas, is observed annually on August 14th in India.

World Elephant Day is observed on August 12th

World Elephant Day is observed on August 12th to protect and preserve elephants. The day focuses on raising awareness and finding solutions for the conservation of wild and captive elephants.

India has the largest and most stable population of Asian elephants, with 29,964 recorded in 2017. Indian elephants, native to the Indian subcontinent, make up about 60% of the total Asian elephant population. These elephants are intelligent and have complex social structures; females live in family groups, while males often live alone. Indian elephants have smaller, rounded ears and more compact bodies compared to African elephants. The IUCN Red List has classified Indian elephants as endangered since 1986, with an 11% population decline over the last 30 years.

Q.: When is World Elephant Day observed annually?

A) July 12th
B) August 12th
C) September 12th
D) October 12th

Answer: B) August 12th
World Elephant Day is observed on August 12th to protect and preserve elephants.

World Lion Day is celebrated on August 10th

World Lion Day is celebrated annually on August 10th to raise awareness about lion conservation. The day was first observed in 2013, initiated by conservationists Dereck and Beverly Joubert with National Geographic’s Big Cat Initiative.

Lions are known as the “Kings of the Jungle” but face threats like habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. Lions are classified as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List, with fewer than 50,000 remaining in the wild.

India has a significant population of Asiatic lions in Gujarat’s Gir National Park. Conservation efforts in India have led to an increase in Asiatic lion numbers, with around 674 lions recorded in the 2020 census.

Q.: When is World Lion Day celebrated annually?

a) August 1st
b) August 10th
c) August 20th
d) August 30th

Answer: b) August 10th
World Lion Day is celebrated annually on August 10th to raise awareness about lion conservation. The day was first observed in 2013, initiated by conservationists Dereck and Beverly Joubert with National Geographic’s Big Cat Initiative.

Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, from August 9 to August 15

The Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, scheduled from August 9 to August 15, 2024, aiming to strengthen patriotism among citizens. Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat urged citizens to hoist the national flag at their homes and share selfies with the flag on the campaign’s website.

Launched in 2022 during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, the campaign saw over ten crore flag selfies uploaded last year. This year’s event includes over 200 cultural programs nationwide and a Tiranga Bike Rally on August 13, featuring Members of Parliament and other ministers. The campaign seeks to strengthen national pride and unity.

Question: What is the primary objective of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign taking place from August 9 to August 15?

A) To promote tourism in India
B) To strengthen patriotism among citizens
C) To celebrate Indian festivals
D) To conduct a nationwide cultural competition

Answer: B) To strengthen patriotism among citizens
The Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, scheduled from August 9 to August 15, 2024, aiming to strengthen patriotism among citizens

10th National Handloom Day is celebrated on August 7, 2024

10th National Handloom Day is celebrated on August.2024. National Handloom Day is celebrated annually on August 7th to honor the cultural heritage and craftsmanship of India’s handloom weavers. This day marks the launch of the Swadeshi Movement on August 7, 1905, promoting the use of indigenous products.

The handloom sector, a vital part of India’s socio-economic fabric, employs millions, especially women in rural areas, and is known for its eco-friendly production. First observed on August 7, 2015, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the day aims to raise awareness about the handloom industry’s significance and support weavers through various government initiatives.

Question: When is National Handloom Day celebrated annually?

a) August 1st
b) August 7th
c) August 15th
d) August 21st

Ans : b) August 7th
This day marks the launch of the Swadeshi Movement on August 7, 1905, promoting the use of indigenous products.

14th Indian Organ Donation Day observed on 3 Aug 2024

The 14th Indian Organ Donation Day was observed across the country on 3 Aug 2024. The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) organized an awareness program in New Delhi. Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, felicitated families who donated organs of brain-dead members, organ recipients, and doctors. She noted that the organ donation rate has quadrupled in the last ten years.

Indian Organ Donation Day has been observed annually since 2010 to raise awareness about brain stem death and organ donation, dispel myths, and encourage organ and tissue donation after death.

Q.: Indian Organ Donation Day is observed annually on which date?

a) 1st August
b) 2nd August
c) 3rd August
d) 4th August

Answer: c) 3rd August
Indian Organ Donation Day has been observed annually since 2010 to raise awareness about brain stem death and organ donation, dispel myths, and encourage organ and tissue donation after death.

Pingali Venkayya: Designer of India’s National Flag – Birth Anniversary on August 2

Pingali Venkayya’s birth anniversary is celebrated every year on August 2. He was a remarkable Indian freedom fighter and the designer of our national flag. He was born on August 2, 1876 (or 1878, according to some sources) in Bhatlapenumarru, Andhra Pradesh. Venkayya served in the British Indian Army during the Second Boer War and realized the need for an Indian flag.

Inspired by the Indian National Congress, he designed the first draft of the national flag in red and green, with a white stripe added later. He presented this flag to Mahatma Gandhi on April 1, 1921. The flag was informally used at Congress meetings and was formally adopted by the Constituent Assembly on July 22, 1947.

Q.: Pingali Venkayya was a remarkable Indian freedom fighter known for designing what?

A) The Indian Constitution
B) The Indian national flag
C) The Indian national anthem
D) The Indian Parliament

Ans : B) The Indian national flag
Pingali Venkayya’s birth anniversary is celebrated every year on August 2. He was a remarkable Indian freedom fighter and the designer of our national flag.

Q.: When was the national flag formally adopted by the Constituent Assembly?

A) January 26, 1950
B) August 15, 1947
C) July 22, 1947
D) November 26, 1949

Ans : C) July 22, 1947
Pingali Venkayya presented this flag to Mahatma Gandhi on April 1, 1921. The flag was informally used at Congress meetings and was formally adopted by the Constituent Assembly on July 22, 1947.

25th Kargil Vijay Diwas, July 26, 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the heroes of the Kargil War on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas in Drass on 26 July 2024.

Kargil Vijay Diwas, observed annually on July 26, commemorates the success of Operation Vijay in 1999. During this conflict, Indian forces successfully reclaimed strategic positions in the Kargil sector of Jammu and Kashmir that had been infiltrated by Pakistani soldiers and terrorists.  The Kargil War Memorial in Dras stands as a testament to their courage.

Question: When is Kargil Vijay Diwas observed annually?

A) June 26
B) July 26
C) August 26
D) September 26

Answer: B) July 26
Kargil Vijay Diwas, observed annually on July 26, commemorates the success of Operation Vijay in 1999. During this conflict, Indian forces successfully reclaimed strategic positions in the Kargil sector of Jammu and Kashmir that had been infiltrated by Pakistani soldiers and terrorists. 

‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’ – June 25

The India government announced that June 25 will be observed annually as “Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas” to honor those who opposed and fought against the injustices during the Emergency imposed by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975.

  • On June 26, 2024 the Lok Sabha adopted a resolution condemning the Emergency.
  • The Emergency of 1975 is remembered for political turmoil, suppression of civil liberties, suspension of fundamental rights, and strict censorship.
  • The Emergency ended in 1977 after public outcry and the ruling party’s electoral defeat, showcasing the resilience of India’s democratic institutions.

Q: Who was the Prime Minister of India during the Emergency imposed in 1975?

a) Narendra Modi
b) Rajiv Gandhi
c) Indira Gandhi
d) Jawaharlal Nehru

Ans : c) Indira Gandhi
Emergency was imposed by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975.

Q: The “Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas” will be observed on which date annually to honor those who opposed the Emergency of 1975?

a) January 26
b) June 25
c) August 15
d) October 2

Ans : b) June 25
The India government announced that June 25 will be observed annually as “Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas” to honor those who opposed and fought against the injustices during the Emergency.

World Population Day – July 11th

World Population Day is observed annually on July 11th. The Day was first marked on 11th July 1990. In December 1990, the United Nations General Assembly decided to continue observing World Population Day to enhance awareness of population issues, including their relations to the environment and development. 

Theme: In 2024, the theme is “Leave No One Behind, Count Everyone.” 

Global Population Trends: As of 2021, the world population is nearly 7.9 billion. Projections suggest it may reach around 8.5 billion by 2030, 9.7 billion by 2050, and 10.9 billion by 2100.

Q: What is the approximate global population as of 2021?

A) 6.5 billion
B) 7.9 billion
C) 10.3 billion
D) 5.2 billion

Answer: B) 7.9 billion
As of 2021, the world population is nearly 7.9 billion. Projections suggest it may reach around 8.5 billion by 2030, 9.7 billion by 2050, and 10.9 billion by 2100.

Q: Which day is observed as World Population Day?

A) January 1st
B) March 8th
C) July 11th
D) September 21st

Answer: C) July 11th
World Population Day is observed annually on July 11th. The Day was first marked on 11th July 1990.

International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the 10th International Day of Yoga celebration in Srinagar on June 21, 2024. The theme for this year’s International Day of Yoga is “Yoga for Self and Society.”

Yoga nurtures physical, mental, and spiritual growth while promoting societal harmony. The enthusiastic participation of millions in recent years reflects Yoga’s profound impact on communities.

MCQs on International Day of Yoga

Q.: When do we celebrate the International Day of Yoga every year?

a) June 11
b) June 21
c) July 21
d) June 1

Ans : b) June 21
10th International Day of Yoga celebration on June 21, 2024,

Q: What is the theme for this year’s International Day of Yoga?

a) Yoga for Peace
b) Yoga for Health
c) Yoga for Self and Society
d) Yoga for the World

Ans : c) Yoga for Self and Society
PM Modi will participate in the 10th International Day of Yoga celebration in Srinagar on June 21, 2024

Buddha Purnima celebrated on May 23, 2024

Buddha Purnima (also known as Buddha Jayanti or Buddha’s Birthday) celebrated on May 23, 2024:

  1. Birth Anniversary of Gautam Buddha: Buddha Purnima marks the birth of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who later became Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.
  2. Significance: Celebrated on the Full Moon day in Vaishakha, it holds religious importance in Hinduism. Lord Buddha is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
  3. Enlightenment: Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya on this auspicious day.
  4. Commemorates Three Major Events: Buddha Purnima commemorates three significant events in Buddha’s life: his birth, enlightenment, and death (Parinirvana).
  5. Pilgrimage Sites: Lumbini in Nepal (where Buddha was born), Bodh Gaya (where he attained enlightenment), and Khushinagar (where he left his body) are major pilgrimage sites for Buddha’s followers

Q: On which day is Buddha Purnima celebrated?

A) New Moon day in Vaishakha
B) Full Moon day in Vaishakha
C) New Moon day in Ashadha
D) Full Moon day in Ashadha

Answer: B) Full Moon day in Vaishakha

Q: Where did Gautama Buddha attain enlightenment?

A) Sarnath
B) Bodh Gaya
C) Varanasi
D) Lumbini

Answer: B) Bodh Gaya

Q: Which of the following is NOT one of the events commemorated on Buddha Purnima?

A) Birth of Gautama Buddha
B) Enlightenment of Gautama Buddha
C) Death (Parinirvana) of Gautama Buddha
D) Marriage of Gautama Buddha

Answer: D) Marriage of Gautama Buddha

International Day for Biodiversity 2024 Theme: Be part of the Plan

The International Day for Biodiversity (IDB) is celebrated annually on 22 May. It commemorates the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) on 22 May 1992.

  • The day promotes support for the CBD, its Protocols, and related action frameworks.
  • The theme for Biodiversity Day 2024 is “Be part of the Plan.”

Q: When is the International Day for Biodiversity (IDB) celebrated?

a) April 22
b) May 22
c) June 22
d) July 22

Ans : b) May 22

Q: What is the theme for Biodiversity Day 2024?

a) “Protect Our Planet”
b) “Save the Future”
c) “Be part of the Plan”
d) “Act Now for Nature”

Ans : c) “Be part of the Plan”

Anti-Terrorism Day : 21 May 2024, death anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi

Anti-Terrorism Day observed on 21 May 2024. The day marks the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was assassinated on May 21, 1991 by a suicide bomber of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) at Sriperumbudur, a village near Chennai.

Anti-Terrorism Day is observed to educate people about the negative impact of terrorism and violence on society and the nation.

Q: When is Anti-Terrorism Day observed?

a) April 21
b) May 21
c) June 21
d) July 21

Ans : b) May 21

Q: Anti-Terrorism Day marks the death anniversary of which former Indian Prime Minister?

a) Indira Gandhi
b) Atal Bihari Vajpayee
c) Rajiv Gandhi
d) Lal Bahadur Shastri

Ans : c) Rajiv Gandhi

World Honey Bee Day is observed on May 20th

World Honey Bee Day is observed on May 20th to raise awareness about the importance of honeybees and other pollinators.

  • The day also commemorates Slovenian Anton Janša, born in 20 May, 1734, a pioneer of beekeeping. Slovenia values beekeeping highly, with a strong beekeeping tradition and a national motto reflecting this.
  • Honeybees are crucial pollinators, essential for over one-third of the world’s food crops.
  • Bees produce honey by collecting nectar from flowers, but their populations are declining due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change.
  • Actions to protect bees include planting bee-friendly gardens, supporting local beekeepers, reducing pesticide use, and spreading awareness.

Q: When is World Honey Bee Day observed?

A) April 20th
B) May 20th
C) June 20th
D) July 20th

Ans : B) May 20th

World Telecommunication Day – May 17

World Telecommunication Day: Celebrated annually on May 17 since 1969 to commemorate the founding of ITU and the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention in 1865. Instituted by the Plenipotentiary Conference in Malaga-Torremolinos in 1973.

World Information Society Day: Established following the World Summit on the Information Society in November 2005. The UN General Assembly declared May 17 as World Information Society Day in March 2006, focusing on the importance of ICT and related issues raised by WSIS.

Q: When do we celebrate World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD)?

A) April 17
B) May 17
C) June 17
D) July 17

Answer: B) May 17

World Football Day – 25th May

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 25th May as World Football Day. This proclamation occurred during the 80th plenary meeting of the General Assembly in New York.

  1. The year 2024 marks the 100th anniversary of the first international football tournament during the 1924 Summer Olympic Games in Paris.
  2. The resolution was passed unanimously by the 193-member General Assembly.

Q: Which day is proclaimed as World Football Day by the United Nations General Assembly?

a) 24th May b) 25th May c) 26th May d) 27th May

Ans : b) 25th May

Q: In which city were the 1924 Summer Olympic Games held, where the first international football tournament with representation from all regions took place?

a) Berlin
b) Tokyo
c) Paris
d) London

Ans : c) Paris

Mother’s Day : Second Sunday in May

Mother’s Day is a special occasion celebrated in various countries around the world to honor mothers and mother-figures. In the United States, Mother’s Day is observed on the second Sunday in May.

Origin:

The modern form of Mother’s Day originated in the United States. Anna Jarvis, inspired by her mother Ann Reeves Jarvis (a peace activist during the American Civil War), campaigned to establish Mother’s Day as a recognized holiday.

The first Mother’s Day service took place in 1907 at Andrews Methodist Episcopal Church in Grafton, West Virginia.

Q: Mother’s Day is celebrated ?

A) First Sunday in May
B) Second Sunday in May
C) Third Sunday in May
D) Fourth Sunday in May

Answer: B) Second Sunday in May

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day : May 8

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is observed annually on May 8 to celebrate the principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

  • The date was chosen because it marks the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, the founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
  • Henry Dunant was born on May 8, 1828, in Geneva, Switzerland, and passed away on October 30, 1910.
  • Dunant was also the recipient of the first Nobel Peace Prize in 1901.
  • The idea for an annual international action to promote peace was introduced after World War I.
  • The proposal for an annual International Red Cross Day was adopted in 1948, with the first celebration occurring on May 8 of that year.
  • The official title of the day evolved over time, becoming “World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day” in 1984.

Q: When is World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day observed?

a) May 7 b) May 8 c) May 9 d) May 10

Ans : b) May 8

Q: Why was May 8 chosen as the date for World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day?

a) It marks the end of World War I
b) It is the birthday of Henry Dunant
c) It is the anniversary of the International Red Cross
d) It is the anniversary of the Nobel Peace Prize

Ans : b) It is the birthday of Henry Dunant

Q: Who is Henry Dunant?

a) Founder of the United Nations
b) Founder of the International Red Cross
c) Founder of the World Health Organization
d) Founder of the European Union

Ans : b) Founder of the International Red Cross

International Sun Day on May 3rd

Government of India commemorates International Sun Day on May 3rd, 2024, highlighting the benefits of solar energy for a greener planet.

  • Ministry of New and Renewable Energy organizes ‘Run for Sun’ Marathon in New Delhi to raise awareness about solar power’s role in mitigating climate change.
  • Marathon demonstrates India’s commitment to solar energy and environmental sustainability.
  • Solar Stops set up in six Indian cities to educate citizens about solar energy through interactive installations.
  • Solart, an All-India Intra-School Solar Art Competition, announced to promote awareness of solar energy among school students through artistic expressions.

Question : When is International Sun Day celebrated ?

a) May 1st
b) May 2nd
c) May 3rd
d) May 4th

Ans : c) May 3rd

World Press Freedom Day observed on May 3rd

World Press Freedom Day observed on May 3rd every year to celebrating press freedom and independence.

  • Theme for this year: “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis.”
  • United Nations General Secretary António Guterres emphasizes journalists’ role in informing the public about environmental and climate emergencies.
  • Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, following UNESCO General Conference recommendations.
  • Marks the anniversary of the Windhoek Declaration, a statement of free press principles.

Windhoek Declaration ?

The Windhoek Declaration is a statement of free press principles that was put together during a UNESCO seminar on “Promoting an Independent and Pluralistic African Press” in Windhoek, Namibia, in 1991. It emphasizes the importance of press freedom, independence, and pluralism as essential components of democratic societies. The declaration calls for the establishment, maintenance, and fostering of an independent, pluralistic, and free press, both in print and broadcast media, in countries transitioning to democracy. It serves as a landmark document advocating for press freedom globally.

Q: What does World Press Freedom Day mark the anniversary of?

a) The establishment of the United Nations
b) The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
c) The Windhoek Declaration
d) The Birth Anniversary of William Shakespeare

Ans : c) The Windhoek Declaration

Q: Windhoek Declaration of UNESCO is related to:

a) Education standards in developing countries
b) Protection of cultural heritage sites
c) Promotion of free press principles
d) Wildlife conservation efforts

Ans : c) Promotion of free press principles

International Labour Day, also known as May Day

International Labour Day, also known as May Day is observed on May 1 every year to honors workers worldwide.

  • The day commemorates workers’ contributions to achieving economic and social rights globally.
  • Originated from the Haymarket Affair in 1886 when a labor demonstration demanding an eight-hour workday turned violent in Chicago.
  • In 1889, European socialist parties united to establish May 1 as International Labour Day, and it has been observed annually since then.

Q: When is International Labour Day observed?

a) June 1
b) May 15
c) April 1
d) May 1

Ans : d) May 1

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