International Tea Day – May 21

ByAjay Gulia 21/05/202521/05/2025

Today (21 May), we celebrate ☕ International Tea Day, honoring one of the most beloved beverages worldwide! 🌏

📜 History

Originally established in 2005 by tea-producing countries like India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and others, International Tea Day was formally recognized by the United Nations in 2019. The day highlights the cultural, economic, and social importance of tea, especially in developing nations where tea cultivation supports millions of livelihoods.

🌿 Significance

Tea is more than just a drink—it’s a tradition, a conversation starter, and an integral part of many cultures. Beyond its soothing flavors, tea contributes to sustainable agriculture, fair trade, and economic stability for millions of farmers and workers worldwide.

🍃 How to Celebrate?

Enjoy a cup of your favorite tea & try a new blend!
Learn about sustainable tea practices & support fair trade.
Share a tea moment with friends & loved ones.

Q. Which country is known for its traditional tea ceremony called ‘Chanoyu’?

A) India
B) China
C) Japan
D) Sri Lanka

Ans: C) Japan

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.
Arvind Shrivastava Appointed as Revenue Secretary
Arvind Shrivastava, a 1994-batch IAS officer of the Karnataka cadre, has been appointed as the Secretary of the Department of Revenue under the Ministry of Finance, effective May 1, 2025. His appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet on April 18, 2025.
Shrivastava brings extensive experience in economic affairs and public administration. He previously served in the Prime Minister’s Office as Joint Secretary and later Additional Secretary, and held key roles in the Ministry of Finance, including Joint Secretary in the Budget Division.
His international experience includes working as a Development Officer at the Asian Development Bank. In Karnataka, he served as Secretary in the Finance and Urban Development Departments, and as Managing Director of the Urban Infrastructure Development & Finance Corporation.
Gujarat Records 891 Asiatic Lions in 2025 Census – A Conservation Milestone
Gujarat has completed its 16th lion population census, revealing 891 Asiatic lions as of May 2025. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced the results, praising Project Lion and the Forest Department’s dedication. The census covered 35,000 sq km across 58 talukas in 11 districts over four days (May 10–13), involving 3,254 personnel.
The survey, conducted in two phases, shows a growing lion population and spread beyond Gir Forest, indicating success in habitat connectivity. Preliminary data shows 196 adult males, with the rest including females, cubs, and sub-adults.
World Consumer Rights Day 2025 : 15 March
World Consumer Rights Day 2025 was observed on 15 March to highlight the importance of consumer rights and protection. The theme for 2025 is “A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles.”
The Government of India has implemented several measures to protect consumer rights and ensure quick grievance redressal. The Jaago Grahak Jaago campaign raises consumer awareness, and the National Consumer Helpline collaborates with over 1,000 companies for faster complaint resolution.
To tackle unfair trade practices in e-commerce, the Consumer Protection (E-commerce) Rules, 2020 outline responsibilities and liabilities for marketplace and inventory-based e-commerce platforms, ensuring proper grievance redressal mechanisms.
India–US Joint Special Forces Exercise Vajra Prahar (16th Edition)
The 16th edition of the India–US Joint Special Forces Exercise “Vajra Prahar” held from 24 February to 16 March at the Special Forces Training School, Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh.
The bilateral exercise aims to enhance interoperability, cooperation, and joint operational capabilities between the Special Forces of India and the United States. The Indian Army will be represented by 45 Special Forces personnel, while the United States will field 12 soldiers from the Green Berets. The previous edition of the exercise was conducted in November 2024 at the Orchard Combat Training Centre, Idaho (USA).
The exercise focuses on the exchange of special operations tactics, techniques, and procedures, with training specifically designed for Special Forces operations in mountainous terrain. Key activities include intensive physical conditioning, joint mission planning, and tactical drills under simulated operational conditions.
Overall, Exercise Vajra Prahar is expected to strengthen professional camaraderie, mutual trust, and operational synergy, further reinforcing the growing defence partnership between India and the United States.
India Wins SAFF U-19 Championship 2025
India clinched the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Under-19 Football Championship 2025 by defeating Bangladesh 4-3 in a thrilling penalty shootout in the final held at the Yupia Outdoor Stadium, Arunachal Pradesh, on 18 May 2025. The match went into penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time, with Shami Singamayum scoring the decisive penalty for India.
The Indian team received massive support from the home crowd and displayed a strong performance throughout the tournament. India entered the final as favourites, having secured dominant wins over Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the Maldives in earlier stages, including the semifinals.
This victory marks a significant triumph over the defending champions Bangladesh, and underscores India’s rising strength in South Asian youth football.