Important Days/Dates 2022-23 with Themes for Banking/ SSC/ RRB NTPC/ Govt. Exams

In this article, we are providing Important Days/Dates with themes of each month. Also, it is a very important topic in the General Knowledge section of government exams. One or two questions are asked from this section in almost all the exams. Updated Important Days/Dates of December. Important Days/Dates of November. Besides, it is also asked in  SSC, Railway and other Government exams. Generally, 2-3 questions on Important Days and dates or events are asked in every competitive exam.

Download Free PDF- List of Important Days (Jan 2023 – Sept 2023)

Here we are giving a month-wise list of important days and events.

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Important Dates and Days of August 2023

Muslim Women’s Rights Day is observed annually across India on 1^st August to celebrate the enactment of the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act 2019 which prohibits the practice of Triple Talaq in India. The year 2022 marks the observance of 3^rd Muslim Women’s Rights Day. The day was first observed in 2020.

World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) is observed annually in the first week (1 to 7 August) of August every year, supported by WHO (World Health Organization), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and many Ministries of Health and civil society partners.

• The WBW aims to raise awareness and galvanise action on themes related to breastfeeding.
• Theme 2023 (as per WHO): “Let’s make breastfeeding and work, work!”
• Theme 2023 (as per World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA): “Enabling breastfeeding: making a difference for working parents”
• WBW was first observed in 1992.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), under the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), has inaugurated ‘Aviation Security Culture Week’ at its headquarters in New Delhi from 31^st July to 5^th August 2023, for the first time in India.

• The theme of the ‘Aviation Security Culture Week’ is “See it, Say it, Secure it”.
• The idea behind this week is to make passengers aware about prohibited things they should not carry while travelling.

World FinTech Day is observed annually on 1^st August to recognize financial technology and its transformative impact on the global financial industry. The day marks the death anniversary of Cosima de’ Medici in 1464. He was a 15^th century Italian politician and banker who established the Medici Bank and influenced the present-day banking system.

Earth Overshoot Day marks the date when humanity’s demand for ecological resources and services in a given year exceeds what Earth can regenerate in that year.

• In 2023, the day falls on 2^nd August.

Indian Organ Donation Day (IODD) is observed annually on 3^rd August to commemorate the first successful deceased heart transplant in India in 1994 after the promulgation of The Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994.

• The day was first observed in 2010 to spread awareness about brain stem death and organ donation, dispel myths and misconceptions associated with organ donation.
• Angdaan Mahotsav:
• In 2023, as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, an awareness campaign for organ donation “Angdaan Mahotsav” has been observed all over the country reaching from city to village level with involvement of Central Government Ministries, State/UT Government/Hospitals/Institutions and medical Colleges, NGOs and other stakeholders.
• As part of the campaign, the month of July 2023 was observed as the Organ Donation month.
• 13^th Indian Organ Donation Day (IODD):
• Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare has addressed the 13th Indian Organ Donation Day (IODD) ceremony in New Delhi.
• The 13th IODD ceremony is held to felicitate deceased donor families for their brave decision of donating organs of their loved ones, to spread awareness on deceased organ donation and to recognize the contribution of medical professionals working in the field of organ donation and transplantation by awarding them.

National Bone & Joint Day is observed annually on 4^th August across India to increase awareness about the importance of bone & joint health and to educate people about preventive measures and early detection of various musculoskeletal disorders and conditions.

• The day was first observed in 2012.
• The Indian Orthopaedic Association (IOA) has launched the 2023 campaign under the theme “Each One Train One Save One.”

National Handloom Day is observed annually on 7^th August to honour the handloom weaving community and highlight the contribution of this sector in the socio-economic development of the country.

• The year 2023 marks the 9th anniversary of National Handloom Day.
• Theme 2023: “Handloom for Sustainable Fashion”
• The Swadeshi Movement was also launched on the same date in the year 1905. The first National Handloom Day was inaugurated on 7 August 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Chennai.

National Javelin Day is observed annually by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) on 7^th August to encourage javelin throw pan-India. The day also commemorate one of the greatest moments in India’s sporting history, Neeraj Chopra’s Olympic gold medal. On this day in 2021, Neeraj Chopra produced the 87.58m effort in Tokyo to secure India’s first track and field medal in the Olympic Games. The year 2023 marks the observance of the second National Javelin Day.

ASEAN Day is observed annually on 8^th August to commemorate the foundation of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a regional intergovernmental organisation that fosters cooperation and integration among its ten member states in Southeast Asia.

• The year 2023 marks the observance of the 56th ASEAN Day and the theme is “Promoting Regional Sustainable Growth”.
• Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN):
• It is a regional grouping that promotes economic, political, and security cooperation. It was founded in August 1967 with the signing of the ASEAN Declaration (Bangkok Declaration) by the founding fathers of ASEAN, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. Its chairmanship rotates annually.
• It is a group of ten Southeast Asian states: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. ASEAN Secretariat is based in Indonesia, Jakarta.

• Indonesia is the chair of ASEAN for 2023.
• ASEAN 2023 chairmanship theme: “ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth”.

International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, also known as World Tribal Day, is observed annually on 9^th August to acknowledge the contributions and achievements of the indigenous communities around the globe.

• The United Nations General Assembly on 23^rd December 1994 decided to observe International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples annually on 9th of August. The day was first observed in 1995.
• Theme 2023: “Indigenous youth as agents of change for self-determination”
• Globally, 47% of all indigenous peoples in employment have no education, compared to 17% of their non-indigenous counterparts. This gap is even wider for women.

Nagasaki Day is observed annually on 9th August. On this day, US dropped an atomic bomb on the Nagasaki city of Japan in 1945 during World War II. The first bomb was dropped on the city of Hiroshima and the second was dropped on Nagasaki on 9 August which killed around 74,000 people or more. Bomb that was dropped on Nagasaki was known as “Fat Man”. The year 2023 marks the 78th anniversary of this incident.

World Biofuel Day is observed annually on 10^th August to raise awareness regarding the significance of non-fossil fuels as an alternative to conventional fossil fuels. It is organized by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Oil and Gas. The day was first celebrated in the year 2015.

• The dayis also celebrated in honour of Sir Rudolf Diesel. He was the inventor of the diesel engine and was the first to predict the possibility of vegetable oil replacing fossil fuels in 1893.

World Lion Day is observed annually on August 10 to create awareness regarding the conservation of lions. The daywas first observed in 2013 by wildlife filmmakers Dereck and Beverly Joubert, the co-founders of National Geographic and the Big Cats initiative.

• The lion is divided into two subspecies: the African lion (Panthera leo leo) and the Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica).
• Lion (Panthera Leo) is classified as ‘Vulnerable’ and Asiatic lion is classified as ‘Endangered’ on IUCN Red list.

World Steelpan Day is observed annually on 11^th August to spread awareness about the cultural and historical significance of the steelpan as well as its link to sustainable development.

• The year 2023 marks the observance of the 1^st World Steelpan Day.

World Elephant Day is observed annually on 12 August to raise awareness about the issues threatening elephants. The year 2023 marks the 12th anniversary of this day. It was first observed in the year 2012. In the IUCN Red List of threatened species, African elephants are listed as Vulnerable and Asian elephants as Endangered.

International Youth Day is observed annually on 12^th August to recognise and bring attention to the problems faced by the youth in the world. This day also emphasizes the need for the youth to have opportunities for education, healthcare, jobs, and the importance of their participation in public life. The day was first celebrated in the year 2000.

• Theme 2023: “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World”

Partition Horrors Remembrance Day or Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas is observed annually across India on 14^th August to acknowledge the pain undergone by Indians due to the partition of India in 1947. It is estimated that between one to two million people died during the partition of the country.

• The year 2023 marks the observance of the 2^nd Partition Horrors Remembrance Day.

World Humanitarian Day is observed annually on 19^th August to honour individuals who indulge in humanitarian work. The day is also marked in memory of the Canal Hotel bomb attack (19^th August 2003) in Baghdad, Iraq, killing 22 people, including Sergio Vieira Mello, Chief Humanitarian in Iraq.

• The day is a campaign by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA). The day was first observed in 2009.
• The tagline of the campaign 2023 is “NoMatterWhat”.

Renewable Energy Day, also known as Akshay Urja Diwas,is observed annually across India on 20^th August to raise awareness about the development and adoption of renewable energy in India. The day was initiated in 2004 by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. The day also commemorates the birthday of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

Sadbhavna Diwas is observed annually on 20^th August to commemorate the birth anniversary of late Rajiv Gandhi, former Prime Minister of India. This day is observed to encourage national integration, peace, affection and communal harmony among Indian people of all religions.

• The year 2023 marks the observance of the 79^th birth anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi.
• The day was instituted in 1992 by Congress.
• Rajiv Gandhi:
• He was born on 20th August 1944 in Mumbai, Maharashtra. He was an Indian politician representative of the Indian National Congress. He served as the 6th Prime Minister of India from 1984 to 1989. He was the youngest Prime Minister of India. He was assassinated on 21 May 1991 in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu. He was awarded Bharat Ratna (posthumously) in 1991.

International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is observed annually on 21^st August to support and pay tribute to the victims and survivors of terrorism. It also aims to promote and protect fundamental freedoms and human rights of victims.

• The year 2023 marks the observance of the 6^th International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism.
• The day was first observed in 2018.
• Theme 2023: “Legacy: Finding Hope and Building a Peaceful Future.”

Internaut Day is observed annually on 23^rd August to mark the day when the World Wide Web (WWW) was opened to the public back in the year 1991 for the first time by WWW inventor Tim Berners Lee as he allowed its access.

• An “internaut” is a person who possesses a thorough knowledge of how to use the Internet and its history.
• Tim Berners Lee, an English computer scientist, had invented the World Wide Web in 1989, while working at the CERN.

World Gujarati Language Day is observed annually on 24 August to commemorate the birth anniversary of the great writer of Gujarat ‘Veer Narmad’. He has made Gujarati literature international.

• Veer Narmad:
• He was born on 24^th August 1833 in Surat, Gujarat. His full name was Narmadashankar Lalshankar Dave. He is considered to be the founder of the Gujarati language. His poem Jai Jai Garavi Gujarat is now the state anthem of Gujarat.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared that 23^rd August of every year will be observed as “National Space Day” across India to mark the soft landing of Chandrayaan 3 on the moon.

• The announcement has been made while addressing the team of Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) Scientists at the ISRO Telemetry Tracking and Command Network Mission Control Complex (ISTRAC) in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
• The day will celebrate the spirit the Science, Technology, and Innovation, and inspire younger generations to get involved in the field of science, technology, and space.
• Note: India has become the 1^st country to reach near the Moon’s South Pole and the 4^th to land a spacecraft on the lunar surface.

National Sports Day is observed annually across India on August 29 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Hockey Wizard Major Dhyan Chand. The day was first observed in 2012 as a tribute to Major Dhyan Chand. The day aims to spread awareness about the importance of sports and the benefits of being physically active in life.

• The President gives away sport-related awards such as the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (formerly known as Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna), Arjuna Award and Dronacharya Award on this day.
• Major Dhyan Chand:
• He was born on 29^th August 1905, in Prayagraj (formerly known as Allahabad), Uttar Pradesh. His original name was Dhyan Singh. He joined the British Indian Army as a sepoy at the age of 16. He exclusively played in army hockey tournaments between 1922 and 1926. He played his first international match in 1948.
• He played a key role in India’s three consecutive Olympic triumphs in 1928, 1932 and 1936. He is often referred to as ‘The Wizard’ for his incredible hockey skills, he scored over 400 goals in his career that lasted from 1926 to 1948. He was the Captain of the Indian hockey team who won the gold medal at the Berlin Olympics in 1936. He was awarded India’s third highest civilian honour of Padma Bhushan in 1956.

National Small Industry Day is observed annually across India on 30^th August to encourage and shape government policies to enhance the efficiency of the small-scale sector. The day was first observed in 2001.

• Government Initiatives for Small Industries:
• Champions Portal
• UDYAM
• National SC-ST Hub

Important Dates and Days of July 2023

National Doctor’s Day is observed annually on 1st July to recognize the contributions of physicians to individual lives and communities. The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy, a renowned physician and the second Chief Minister of West Bengal. He was also an educationist, social worker and freedom fighter. He was awarded Bharat Ratna in 1961.

• The first Doctor’s Day was observed by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) in 1991.
• Theme 2023: “Celebrating Resilience and Healing Hands”

International Sports Journalists Day, also known as World Sports Journalists Day, is observed annually on 2nd July to honour all sports journalists around the world and also brings awareness regarding sports journalism to the common public. The day was first observed in 1994, when the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) decided to commemorate it in honour of its 70th anniversary.

International Plastic Bag Free Day is observed annually on 3rd July to spread awareness around the need to bring in eco-friendly alternatives and curb plastic pollution. The day was first observed in 2008, when Rezero, a member of Zero Waste Europe (ZWE), initiated it.

• The year 2023 marks the 14th edition of the celebrations.

World Zoonoses Day is observed annually on 6^th July to raise awareness for the risk of zoonotic diseases. The day commemorates 6^th July 1885, when French biologist Louis Pasteur successfully administered the first vaccine against Rabies virus, a zoonotic disease.

• Zoonoses are infectious diseases that can be spread from animals to humans, and vice versa. It can spread from direct contact with animals or indirectly, vector-borne or food-borne.

National Fish Farmer’s Day is observed annually on 10^th July to recognize the contributions of the fish farmers, aquaculture industry professionals and other stakeholders towards sustainable development of the fisheries sector.

• The year 2023 marks the observance of 23^rd National Fish Farmers Day.
• The day also marks the observance of the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) Foundation Day. NFDB was set up in 2006 as an autonomous organization under the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.
• The day was first observed in 2001.

World Population Day is observed annually on 11^th July to raise awareness about global population issues. The United Nations Development Programme’s Governing Council had established the ‘World Population Day’ in 1989 after the global population crossed five billion in 1987. The day was first observed in 1990.

• Theme 2023: “Unleashing the power of gender equality: Uplifting the voices of women and girls to unlock our world’s infinite possibilities”

International Malala Day is observed annually on 12^th July to honour the Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai, who works for women’s right to education across the globe. Since July 12 was her birthday, therefore the United Nations promptly declared that the day will be celebrated as ‘Malala Day’ to honour the young activist.

• Malala Yousafzai:
• She was born in Mingora, Pakistan in 1997. She began advocating for women’s education in 2008. In 2012, she was attacked by the Taliban. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 in recognition of her efforts for children’s rights which had begun even before she was shot. In 2015, an asteroid ‘316201 Malala’ was named in honour of Malala Yousufzai. She has also authored a book titled ‘We Are Displaced’ which chronicles her experiences of travelling the world and visiting refugee camps.

World Youth Skills Day is observed annually on 15^th July to highlight the importance of equipping young people with skills for employment and entrepreneurship. The day was first observed in 2015.

• Theme 2023: “Skilling teachers, trainers and youth for a transformative future”

World Day for International Justice is observed annually on 17^th July to commemorate the momentous approval of the Rome Statute and the formation of the new International Criminal Justice System in 1998. The day also marks the strengthening system of international justice and to promote the rights of the victims.

• On 17^th July 1998, 120 countries came together to sign a treaty titled the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. The establishment came to be known as the International Criminal Court (ICC), which came into force on 1^st July 2002.

Nelson Mandela International Day is observed annually on 18th July to commemorate the birth anniversary of Nelson Mandela, a South African anti-apartheid activist who served as the first President from 1994 to 1999. The year 2023 marks the 105^th birth anniversary of Nelson Mandela.

• United Nations officially declared July 18 as Nelson Mandela International day in November 2009.
• The day was first celebrated in 2010.
• Theme 2023: “The Legacy Lives on Through You: Climate, Food and Solidarity.”
• Nelson Mandela:
• He was born in Transkei, South Africa in 1918. He was also known as the ‘Gandhi of South Africa’. He was a strong follower of Gandhi’s teachings. He was felicitated with the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, Bharat Ratna in 1990 & International Gandhi Peace Price in 2001 for his peace-making efforts.

World Snake Day is observed annually on 16^th July to spread awareness about the snakes in the world and also to recognize the importance of snakes.

• In India, the World Snake Day has been observed at the National Zoological Park in New Delhi for the conservation of snakes by creating awareness about different types of snakes in India.
• As of now (July 2023), there are 31 number of snakes of 07 species present in the National Zoological Park in New Delhi.

International Moon Day is observed annually on 20^th July to commemorate the anniversary of the first landing on the lunar surface by humans. Neil Armstrong was the first human to set foot on the Moon as part of the Apollo 11 Mission in 1969.

• The year 2023 marks the observance of the 2nd International Moon Day.
• The day has been organized in cooperation with United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA).
• Theme 2023: “Lunar Exploration Coordination & Sustainability”

World Brain Day is observed annually on 22^nd July to increase public awareness and promote advocacy related to brain health. The day also commemorates the establishment of the World Federation of Neurology (22^nd July 1957). The day was first observed in 2014.                                                                                                                                                                                                  

• Theme 2023: “Brain Health and Disability: Leave No One Behind”
• The World Brain Day 2023 is framed by five key aims:
  • Prevention: Brain disabilities can be prevented, treated, and rehabilitated.
  • Awareness: Global brain health awareness can reduce the disability associated with brain disorders.
  • Access: Universal access to care, treatment, rehabilitation, and assistive technology is essential.
  • Education: Education increases equity for those living with brain disabilities.
  • Advocacy: Brain health is a human right that applies to everyone, everywhere.

National Broadcasting Day is observed annually on 23^rd July to commemorate the first radio broadcast made on this day, in 1927, from the Bombay Station of the Indian Broadcasting Company. On this day in 1927, Indian Broadcasting Company Limited (IBC), a personal corporation, launched All India Radio’s journey. On June 8, 1936, the British Raj eventually took control of the Indian Broadcasting Company Limited (IBC) and transformed it into All India Radio (AIR).

• The year 2023 marks the 96^th anniversary of the establishment of the All India Radio (AIR) which was formerly known as IBC.

Income Tax Day or ‘Aaykar Diwas’ is observed annually across India on 24^th July by the Income Tax Department to commemorate the introduction of provision of income tax in the country.

• The year 2023 marks the 164th Income Tax Day.
• On 24^th July 1860, Sir James Wilson introduced income tax for the first time in India. The day was celebrated for the first time in 2010, to mark 150 years of income tax in India.

World Drowning Prevention Day is observed annually on 25^th July to encourage individuals, governments, UN agencies and civil society organisations to collaborate and provide critical measures to prevent drowning deaths. The day was first observed in 2021.

• Theme 2023: “Anyone can drown, no one should”
• In May 2023, the World Health Assembly (WHA) adopted its first-ever resolution on drowning prevention.
• Drowning is the 3rd leading cause of unintentional injury death worldwide, accounting for 7% of all injury-related deaths.

World Mangrove Day, also known as International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, is observed annually on 26^th July to spread awareness of the importance of mangrove ecosystems as a unique, special, and vulnerable ecosystem and to promote solutions for their sustainable management, conservation, and uses.

• The day was first observed in 2016.
• The day also commemorate Greenpeace activist Hayhow Daniel Nanoto, who passed away in 1998 during a massive protest to re-establish the mangrove wetlands in Muisne, Ecuador.

Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed annually on 26th July to commemorate the Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation. The Kargil War took place between 3^rd May and 26^th July 1999 in the Kargil district of Kashmir and along the Line of Control (LoC).

• The Kargil War ended in 1999 when the Indian troops took back control over the mountain posts that were occupied by the Pakistani forces.
• During the war, the Indian Army recaptured strategic peaks including Tololing, Tiger Hill, and Point 4875.
• The day marks victory in Operation Vijay in 1999.
• The year 2023 marks the 24th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas.

World Hepatitis Day is observed annually on 28th July to raise awareness of viral hepatitis, which causes inflammation of the liver that leads to severe disease and liver cancer. It is sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO).

• The day is observed to commemorate the birth anniversary of Nobel laureate scientist Dr Baruch Blumberg. He discovered the Hepatitis B virus (HBV).
• The day was first observed in 2008 and by WHO in 2011.
• Theme 2023: “One Life, One Liver”

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Raising Day, also known as CRPF Foundation Day, is annually observed on 27^th July to commemorate the establishment of CRPF, the largest of India’s Central Armed Police Forces, functions under the aegis of Ministry of Home Affairs.

• The year 2023 marks the 85^th Raising Day of CRPF.
• CRPF is the premier central police force of the Union of India for internal security, originally constituted as the crown Representative Police on 27^th July 1939.
• It is one of the oldest Central para military forces (now termed as Central Armed Police Force (CAPF)).
• It became the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on the enactment of the CRPF Act of Parliament on 28^th December 1949. This Act constituted CRPF as an armed force of the Union.

International Tiger Day is observed annually on July 29^th to spread awareness about dangers and problems faced by tiger population across the world.

• The year 2023 marks the observance of the 13th International Tiger Day.
• The World Tiger Day was founded in 2010, during Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit 2010.
• The day was first observed in 2011.
• Tiger is classified as endangered species by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
• As per World Wildlife Fund, approximately 95% of the population of tigers has declined in the last 150 years.
• Note: As of 2023, India’s tiger population has reached 3925, with an annual growth rate of 6.1%. Madhya Pradesh has the largest tiger population with 785 tigers, followed by Karnataka with 563, Uttarakhand with 560, and Maharashtra with 444.

The World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is observed annually on 30^th July to raise awareness about the condition of victims of human trafficking and to promote and protect their rights. The day was first observed in 2014.

• Theme 2023: “Reach every victim of trafficking, leave no one behind”

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Important Dates and Days of June 2023

World Milk Day is observed annually on 1^st June to recognize milk as global food and to celebrate the dairy industry. The goal of World Milk Day is to reach ‘Dairy Net Zero’ by lowering greenhouse emissions and improving waste management over the next 30 years. The day was established by the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) in 2001.

• Note: India is the largest producer of milk followed by the US, Pakistan, and China, and also accounts for 22 percent of the global milk production.

World Bicycle Day is observed annually on 3^rd June to recognize bicycling as a way to get a sustainable form of traveling that also ensures one’s physical well-being.

• The day was first observed in 2018.

International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression is observed annually on 4^th June to acknowledge the pain suffered by children throughout the world who are victims of physical, mental, and emotional abuse. The day was first observed on 19^th August 1982. At that time, the day was focused on victims of the Lebanon War.

World Environment Day (WED) is observed annually on 5^th June to create awareness among people about the importance of nature. The day is organized by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and held annually since 1973. The day was established in 1972, which was the first day of the Stockholm Conference on the human environment.

• Theme 2023: “Solutions to plastic pollution”
• The year 2023 marks the 50^th anniversary of the World Environment Day.
• WED 2023 is hosted by Côte d’Ivoire and supported by the Netherlands.

The UN Russian Language Day is observed annually on 6^th June to spread awareness about the history, culture, and development of the Russian language. The day also marks the birth anniversary of the Great Russian poet A.S. Pushkin, the father of modern Russian literature.

• It is one of the six official languages used by the United Nations throughout the Organization.
• The day was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2010.
• Note: Six official languages ​​of the UN are English, Arabic, Spanish, Chinese, Russian and French.

World Food Safety Day is observed annually on 7th June to draw attention and mobilize action to prevent, detect and manage foodborne risks and improve human health. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) jointly facilitate the observance of World Food Safety Day, in collaboration with Member States and other relevant organizations. The day was first observed in 2019.

• Theme 2023: ‘Food Standards Save Lives’
• The year 2023 marks the observance of the 5^th World Food Safety Day.

1. World Oceans Day is observed annually on 8^th June to inform the public of the impact of human actions on the ocean, develop a worldwide movement of citizens for the ocean, and mobilize and unite the world’s population on a project for the sustainable management of the world’s oceans.

The concept of World Oceans Day was first proposed by the United Nations in 1992 at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro.

• The day was first observed in 2009.
• Theme 2023: “Planet Ocean: tides are changing”

World Accreditation Day is observed annually on 9^th June to highlight the value of accreditation in the economy. It is a global initiative jointly launched by the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) and the International Accreditation Forum (IAF). The day was first observed in 2008.

• The year 2023 marks the 16^th anniversary of World Accreditation Day.
• Theme 2023: ” Accreditation: Supporting the Future of Global Trade.”
• The theme focuses on how accreditation supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 10, 14, and 17.

World Day Against Child Labour is observed annually on 12^th June to raise awareness and activism to prevent child labour. The International Labour Organization (ILO) launched this day in 2002 to spread awareness about the harmful mental and physical problems faced by children forced into child labour, all over the world.

• Theme 2023: “Social Justice for All. End Child Labour!”

International Albinism Awareness Day is observed annually on 13^th June to spread awareness about albinism and to highlight the human rights of people with albinism. The day was first observed in 2015.

• Theme 2023: “Inclusion is Strength”

World Blood Donor Day is observed annually on 14^th June to spread awareness of the need for safe blood and blood products and to thank voluntary, unpaid blood donors for their life-saving gifts of blood. The day also marks the birth anniversary of Karl Landsteiner.

• This day was first initiated and established on 14 June 2004 by the World Health Organization (WHO).
• For 2023, the World Blood Donor Day slogan is “Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often.”
• The host country for World Blood Donor Day 2023 is Algeria.

Mumbai Police has observed 14^th June as ‘No Honking Day’ to curb noise pollution and to create awareness about the menace among the people. The police have appealed to the people to make ‘no honking’ a habit.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is observed annually on 15^th June to spread awareness about abuse and neglect of older persons and raise awareness of the cultural, social, economic, and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect.

• The International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA) initiated and designated the 15^th June as WEAAD in June 2006. The day was first observed in 2012. Theme 2023: “Addressing Gender-Based Violence in Older Age Policy, Law and Evidence-based Responses”

International Day of Family Remittances is observed annually on 16^th June to recognise the importance of over 200 million migrant workers who send money home to over 800 million family members. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the resolution on 12^th June 2018 and proclaimed the 16^th June of every year as the International Day of Family Remittances.

• Theme 2023: “Digital remittances towards financial inclusion and cost reduction”

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought is observed annually on 17^th June to promote public awareness of international efforts to combat desertification. The day was first observed in 1995.

• Theme 2023: “Her Land. Her Rights”

International Day for Countering Hate Speech is observed annually on 18^th June to promote inter-religious and intercultural dialogue and tolerance in countering hate speech.

• The year 2023 marks the celebration of the 2nd International Day for Countering Hate Speech.

The United Nations Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect and the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Morocco to the United Nations have hosted a high-level event to mark the 2nd International Day for Countering Hate Speech.

National Reading Day is observed annually on 19^th June to encourage the habit and culture of reading and to promote literacy. The day also marks the death anniversary of Puthuvayil Narayana Panicker, who is considered as the Father of Kerala’s Library and Literacy Movement.

• The year 2023 marks the observance of the 28^th National Reading Day.
• National Reading or Digital Reading Month has been observed across India from 19^th June to 18^th July 2023.
• PN Panicker:
• He was born in a Nair family on 1^st March 1909 at Neelampeeror, Kerala. He started the ‘Granthashala Sangam’ in 1945 to promote literacy movement and libraries in the state. He was famous for the message of – “Vayichu Valaruka” which means “Read and Grow”. He made the literacy movement into a popular socio-cultural movement. He founded the Kerala Association for Non-Formal Education and Development (KANFED) in 1977. Granthasala Sangam won the ‘Krupsakaya Award’ from UNESCO in 1975.

World Refugee Day is observed annually on 20^th June to commemorate the obstacles faced by refugees all over the world. The day was first observed in 2001 by the United Nations on the 50th anniversary of the 1951 UN Refugee Convention regarding the status of refugees.

• The day was previously known as ‘Africa Refugee Day’, but in 2000, UN officially designated the day as ‘World Refugee Day’.
• Theme 2023: ‘Hope Away From Home’

The International Yoga Day (IDY) is observed annually on 21^st June to spread awareness about the benefits of practicing Yoga, an ancient physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in India. The day was first observed in 2015. 

• The year 2023 marks the observance of the 9^th International Yoga Day (IDY) 2023.
• Theme 2023: ‘Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’
• In India, IDY 2023 has been led by Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankar in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has attended the 9th IDY 2023 program at the UN Headquarters in New York, the USA.
• As part of IDY 23, the Ministry of AYUSH has organized an event ‘Ocean Ring of Yoga’ (symbolising unity and solidarity) in coordination with the Ministry of Defence and other ministries. Under this, the Indian Navy ships deployed in the Indian Ocean Region are visiting various ports of friendly foreign countries and spreading the message of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’.

National Statistics Day is observed annually on 29th June to raise awareness about the use of statistics in everyday life and policy-making. The day marks the celebration of the birth anniversary of Late Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, known as the “Father of Indian Statistics”. The day was first observed in 2007.

• Theme 2023: “Alignment of State Indicator Framework with National Indicator Framework for Monitoring Sustainable Development Goals.”

National Insurance Awareness Day is observed annually on 28^th June to raise awareness about Insurance which offers security in several situations and to make people aware of the benefits of investing in insurance plans.

• The day also serves as a reminder to people to check if all their insurance payments (or renewals) are up to date.
• Note: As per the Economic Survey 2022-23 released on 31^st January 2023, the Insurance penetration in India has risen from 2.7% (in 2000) to 4.2% (in 2020) and was 3.2% in 2021.

World Micro- Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) Day is observed annually on 27^th June to spread awareness of the tremendous contributions of micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

• This year, the International Trade Centre (ITC) marks the 6th anniversary of MSME Day. The day was first observed in 2017.
• It is noteworthy that MSMEs account for 90% of businesses, 60 to 70% of employment and 50% of GDP worldwide.

International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day, is observed annually on 26th June to highlight the physical and psychological impact of substance abuse, drug overdose deaths and drug-related humanitarian crises with an aim to eliminate the menace from society. The day was first set by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 1987.

• Theme 2023: “People first: stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention”

Day of the Seafarer (DotS) is observed annually on 25^th June to honour the vital contribution that seafarers make to global trade and the economy, frequently at considerable personal sacrifice to themselves and their families. The day was first observed in 2011. The year 2023 marks the observance of the 13^th Day of the Seafarer. The day is organized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

• Theme 2023: “MARPOL at 50 – Our commitment goes on”

International Olympic Day is observed annually on 23^rd June to promote sports and health. The day commemorates the foundation of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 1894 at the Sorbonne, Paris, where the Olympic Games were revived by Baron Pierre de Coubertin.

Important Dates and Days of May 2023

World No Tobacco Day is observed annually on 31^st May to inform the public on the dangers of using tobacco, the business practices of tobacco companies, what the World Health Organization (WHO) is doing to fight tobacco use, and what people around the world can do to claim their right to health and healthy living.

• Theme 2023: “We need food, not Tobacco”
• In 1987, the World Health Assembly passed a resolution calling for the celebration of World No Tobacco Day every year on 31 May.

World Vape Day is observed annually on 30^th May to raise awareness about the alternatives to harmful tobacco products and highlights the relative safety of e-cigarettes and their potential as harm reduction and smoking cessation tools.

• The day was launched by the World Vapers’ Alliance (WVA).

International Day of United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers is observed annually on 29^th May to pay tribute to the uniformed and civilian personnel’s invaluable contribution to the work of the Organization and to honour nearly 4,200 peacekeepers who have lost their lives serving under the UN flag since 1948, including 135 last year.

• The day was first observed in 2003.
• The United Nations celebrates 75 years of Peacekeeping under the theme “Peace Begins with Me.”
• The first UN peacekeeping mission was established on 29^th May 1948 when the Security Council deployed a small number of UN military observers to the Middle East to form the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) with the objective to monitor the Armistice Agreement between Israel and its Arab neighbours.

World Hunger Day is observed annually on 28^th May to highlight the importance of ending hunger. The day was founded by The Hunger Project in 2011 to call attention to the global food crisis.

• The year 2023 marks the 13^th edition of World Hunger Day.
• Theme 2023: “Celebrating sustainable solutions to hunger and poverty”

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has adopted a resolution to designate November 26 every year as World Sustainable Transport Day.

• The day has been initiated by Turkmenistan.
• The day aims to create awareness and educate the general public about the importance of international cooperation in addressing issues related to transport sustainability.
• The 26^th November has been chosen to mark the anniversary of the first United Nations Global Sustainable Transport Conference held in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan on 26^th and 27^th November 2016.

World Thyroid Day is observed annually on 25^th May to promote awareness and understanding of thyroid diseases, their symptoms, prevention, and treatments. The day was established in 2008 during the congress of the European Thyroid Association (ETA). The day also marks the anniversary of ETA’s foundation in 1965.

• Blue paisley ribbon is the international symbol of thyroid awareness.

Commonwealth Day is observed annually on the second Monday of March in most of the 54 countries of the Commonwealth, with the British queen delivering a speech on the radio.

• However, India and a few other countries celebrate it on 24^th May. The day commemorates the formation of the British Empire in India and other colonies of Britain.
• Theme 2023: ‘Forging a sustainable and peaceful common future’
• Historical Background:
• The Commonwealth Day was earlier known as Empire Day. Empire Day was first observed in 1901, following the death of Queen Victoria on 22^nd January 1901. The inaugural Empire Day was observed on 24^th May 1902, the late Queen’s birth anniversary. Empire Day was renamed Commonwealth Day in 1958.

World Turtle Day is observed annually on 23^rd May to help people celebrate and protect turtles and tortoises and their disappearing habitats around the world. The day was started by a non-profit organization called American Tortoise Rescue (ATR). This organization was founded in 1990 and the World Turtle Day was first observed in 2001. The year 2022 marks the 22nd International World Turtle Day.

• Theme 2023: “I Love Turtles!”

International Day for Biological Diversity is observed annually on 22^nd May to increase awareness and understanding of the issues of biodiversity. Biodiversity is essential for sustaining the balance of the planet. The day was first observed in 2001.

• Theme 2023: ‘From agreement to action: Build back biodiversity’

Anti-Terrorism Day is observed annually on 21^st May to commemorate the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

• He was assassinated on 21^st May 1991, by the Tamil Tigers Eelam (LTTE) terrorists while campaigning for the Congress Party at Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu. He served as the sixth Prime Minister of the country. The day also promotes peace and harmony.

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development is observed annually on 21^st May to celebrate the richness of the world’s cultures and highlight the significance of its diversity as an agent of inclusion and positive change for achieving peace and sustainable development.

• This day was created as a result of the destruction of the Buddha statues of Bamiyan in Afghanistan in 2001.

World Bee Day is observed annually on 20^th May to spread awareness about the essential roles bees play in supporting people and the environment.

• The day also marks the birth anniversary of Anton Jansa in 1734. She was considered the pioneer of beekeeping. The day was first observed in 2018.Theme 2023: ‘Bee engaged in pollinator-friendly agricultural production’

International Museum Day is observed annually on 18^th May to spread awareness about the fact that museums are an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding and cooperation. The day is organized by the International Council of Museums (ICOM). The day was first observed in 1977.

• Theme 2023: ‘Museums, Sustainability and Wellbeing’
• Each year since 2020, the International Museum Day supports a set of Goals from the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. In 2023, it focusses on:
  • Goal 3: Global Health and Wellbeing
  • Goal 13: Climate Action
  • Goal 15: Life on Land

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is observed annually on 17^th May to help create awareness in generating possibilities of using the internet and other information and communication technologies to bridge the digital divide.

• The day also commemorates the first International Telegraph Convention’s signing and the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The day was first observed in 2007. Theme 2023: “Empowering the least developed countries through information and communication technologies”

National Dengue Day is observed annually on 16^th May to spread awareness about Dengue and to intensify the preventive measures and preparedness for the control of dengue in India. The day is an initiative by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare that has been working towards the prevention and control of viral fever in various states in the country.

• Dengue: It is a viral disease which is caused by Dengue Virus (DENV, 1-4 serotypes). It is transmitted by the bite of Aedes aegypti mosquito infected with any one of the four dengue viruses. Aedes aegypti mosquito bites only during daylight hours.

International Day of Light is observed annually on 16^th May to mark the anniversary of the first successful operation of the laser in 1960 by physicist and engineer, Theodore Maiman.

• The day also promotes awareness for the appreciation of light and the role it plays in science, art, education, and sustainable development. The day was first observed by UNESCO in 2018.

International Day of Families is observed annually on 15^th May to raise awareness about the importance of families and the role of the international community in the development of families. The day was first observed in 1994.

• Theme 2023: “Demographic Trends and Families”

World Migratory Bird Day is observed twice a year since its inauguration in 2006. The day is celebrated bi-annually on the second Saturday in May and in October. This year, the day falls on 13 May and 14 October. It is an annual awareness-raising campaign highlighting the need for the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats.

• Theme 2023: “Water: Sustaining Bird Life”

International Nurses Day is observed annually on 12^th May to recognize the strong commitment, compassion and dedication that Nurses display in the practice of their profession. The day also marks the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the English social reformer, statistician and founder of modern nursing. She was also known as Lady with the Lamp.

• Theme 2023: ‘Our Nurses. Our Future’
• The day was first observed by the International Council of Nurses (ICN) in 1965.
• Note: International Nurses Week has been observed from 6 to 12 May 2023.

National Technology Day is observed annually across India on 11^th May to honour the contributions of India’s scientific community including scientists, researchers and engineers. The day was first observed in 1999.

• The day commemorates the anniversary of the Pokhran II Tests (1998) code-named Operation Shakti which were a series of five explosions conducted under the guidance of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam at the Indian Army’s Pokhran Range, Rajasthan. After the tests, the then Prime Minister of India Atal Bihar Vajpayee declared India a nuclear state, making it the 6^th country to join the elite nuclear club.
• Theme 2023: ‘School to Startups- Igniting Young Minds to Innovate’

World Lupus Day is a global health event commemorated on 10^th May annually to raise awareness about the seriousness of this lupus disease. The day was created by Lupus Canada in 2004.

• Theme 2023: “Make Lupus Visible”
• Lupus: Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation in any part of the body including the heart, kidneys, lungs, blood, joints and skin. In the skin, lupus presents as a butterfly rash on the cheeks. Lupus is caused when the immune system attacks its own tissue, resulting in destroying healthy tissue and causing pain and inflammation in all parts of the body.

United Nation’s International Day of Argania is observed annually on 10^th May to recognize the significance of the Argan tree in achieving the 3 dimensions, Economic, Social, and Environmental, of sustainable development at the local level. The day was first observed in 2021.

• Theme 2023: “Socio-economic development & sustainability of the Argan ecosystem”
• Argan trees: The Argan trees (Argania spinosa) is a native species of the sub-Saharan region of Morocco. It grows in arid and semiarid areas. It’s the defining species of a woodland ecosystem, also known as Arganeraie, which is rich in endemic flora. Argan oil is one of the rarest oils in the world and is hailed as the “liquid gold” of Morocco.

World Thalassemia Day is observed annually on 8^th May to spread awareness to honour the struggle of patients suffering from this disease. The day was created in 1994 by Panos Englezos, president and the founder of the Thalassemia International Federation (TIF), in the loving memory of his son George and the other thalassemia patients who fought this disease.

• Theme 2023: ‘Be Aware. Share. Care: Strengthening Education to Bridge the Thalassaemia Care Gap’
• Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder that doesn’t let the body to create enough haemoglobin. The disease weakens and destroys the blood cells. There are two types of thalassemia, alpha and beta, along with Thalassemia minor, intermedia and major as its subcategories.

World Athletics Day is observed annually on 7^th May to spread awareness among youth and children regarding the importance of sports and fitness. The day is a part of a project named ‘Athletics for a Greater World’ which was initiated by World Athletics, formerly known as International Amateur Athletics Federations (IAAF). The day was first observed in 1996 by Primo Nebiolo who was the then-president of IAAF.

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has observed its 64^th raising day on 7^th May 2023. During the occasion, Project Dantak of BRO, in association with the Bhutan Olympic Committee, has organized the 10th mega edition of the Enduring Friendship Mountain bike challenge at Thimphu in Bhutan.

• Project DANTAK:
• It was established on 24th April1961.It was a result of the visionary leadership of the third King of Bhutan and then Prime Minister of India Jawahar Lal Nehru. The project was tasked to construct the pioneering motorable roads.
• Border Roads Organisation (BRO):
• BRO was founded on 7th May 1960 as a leading road construction agency under the Ministry of Defence with Shramena Sarvam Sadhyam as its motto.
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Director General: Rajeev Chaudhary

World Hand Hygiene Day is observed annually on 5^th May to maintain global promotion, visibility, and sustainability of hand hygiene in health care. It is annually led by the World Health Organization (WHO).

• The campaign theme of World Hand Hygiene Day 2023 is a “Together, we can accelerate action to prevent infections and antimicrobial resistance in health care and build a culture of safety and quality in which hand hygiene improvement is given high priority”, and the slogan is “Accelerate action together. SAVE LIVES – Clean Your Hands”
• ‘Save Lives: Clean Your Hands’ was launched by WHO in 2009. It is now celebrated as World Hand Hygiene Day.

Coal Miners Day is observed annually on 4^th May to recognize and honour the contributions and sacrifices made by coal miners. The day was announced by the Indian government in 2010.

• India’s first coal mine was established in 1774.
• The first underground coal mine in India was inaugurated at Raniganj, West Bengal, in 1907.
• The first coal mine was opened in Scotland in 1575.

International Firefighters’ Day is observed annually on 4^th May to recognise and honour the sacrifices of firefighter’s who risk their lives for others. The day also marks the feast day of St Florian, the patron saint of fire-fighters, chimney sweeps, and brewers. The day was first observed in 1999.

• The symbol for International Firefighters’ Day is a red and blue ribbon. The red colour symbolises fire and blue symbolises water.

World Press Freedom Day is observed annually on 3^rd May to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom, assess the state of press freedom around the world, defend the media against the attacks on its independence and pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives while performing their duty.

• Theme 2023: ‘Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights’
• The 2023 year marks the 30th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day.

World Asthma Day is observed annually across the globe on the first Tuesday of May month to spread awareness about asthma, a condition in which a person’s airways become inflamed, narrow and swell and produce extra mucus, which makes it difficult to breathe. The day was first observed in 1998.

• The day is annually organized by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA).
• In 2023, the day falls on 2^nd May.
• Theme 2023: “Asthma care for all”

World Tuna Day is observed annually on 2^nd May to spread awareness about the importance of tuna fish. The day was established by United Nations in 2016 by the UN General Assembly to preserve the Tuna fish.

• Tuna is an important source of food for humans as fish has many rich properties like omega 3, vitamin B12, protein and other minerals.

International Labour Day is observed annually on 1^st May to spread awareness about labour rights and to recognize the efforts of the working class. It is also known as International Workers Day or May Day or Antarashtriya Shramik Diwas or ‘Uzhaopalar Naal’ in Tamil or ‘Kamgar Diwas’ in Marathi.

• The day also commemorates the Haymarket Riot Chicago in 1886.
• Labour Day was celebrated for the first time in India in 1923. The first formal celebration of the Labour Day in India was organised by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan on 1st May 1923, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

Ayushman Bharat Diwas is observed annually on 30^th April to commemorate the launch of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) by the Government of India. The day also aims to promote the significance of providing medical facilities to all remote areas and to provide quality healthcare to every citizen in India.

• Theme 2023: “Swasthya Amrit”
• Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY):
• It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. It was launched in September 2018 from Ranchi, Jharkhand and recommended by the National Health Policy 2017, to achieve the vision of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The aim is to provide quality healthcare services through public-private partnerships (PPPs).

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Important Dates and Days of April 2023

Odisha Day, also known as Utkal Divas, is observed annually on 1^st April to commemorate the formation of the state as a separate state out of Bihar and Orissa Province with the addition of Koraput and Ganjam from the Madras Presidency on 1st April 1936.

• The year 2023 marks 88^th foundation day of the state.

Prevention of Blindness week is observed annually across India from 1^st April to 7^th April to raise awareness against the causes of blindness and the ways to prevent them. The week is organized by the National Society for the Prevention of Blindness, India (NSPB-I).

World Autism Awareness Day is observed annually on 2^nd April to spread awareness about the disorder and also to support those who are suffering from Autism.

• Theme 2023: “Transforming the narrative: Contributions at home, at work, in the arts and in policymaking”
• The day was first observed in 2008.
• Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a development disorder characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication.

International Children’s Book Day is observed annually on 2^nd April to inspire a love of reading and to call attention to children’s books. The day is also observed to commemorate the birth anniversary of the renowned fairy-tale writer Hans Christian Andersen.

• The day was first observed in 1966 by the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY).
• Greece has hosted International Children’s Book Day 2023.
• Theme 2023: ‘I am a book, read me’

International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action is observed annually on 4^th April to create awareness about landmines and progress toward their eradication.

• Theme 2023: “Mine Action Cannot Wait”
• The day was first observed in 2006.

National Maritime Day is observed annually on 5^th April to create awareness about international trade and the economy. The year 2023 marks the 60th edition of the National Maritime Day.

• The day was first observed in 1964.
• The saga of Indian shipping first began on 5^th April 1919, when the SS Loyalty, the first ship of The Scindia Steam Navigation Company Limited travelled from Mumbai to the United Kingdom (London).
• National Maritime Week 2023 has been observed from 30^th March to 5^th April 2023 under the theme ‘Amrit Kaal in Shipping’.

International Day of Conscience is observed annually on 5^th April to highlight the importance of conscience and its role in stopping people from harming others physically, sexually, orally or mentally. The day was first observed in 2020.

World Table Tennis Day is observed annually on 6^th April to highlight table tennis as a driving force for development and peace and its ability to connect people across the world. The day was first observed in 2015. The day is the initiative of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) based in Lausanne, Switzerland.

International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP) is observed annually on 6^th April to recognize the positive role sport and physical activity play in communities and in people’s lives across the globe.

• Theme 2023: “Scoring for People and the Planet”
• The day was first observed in 2014.

World Health Day is observed annually on 7^th April to draw attention to a specific health topic of concern to people all over the world. The date of 7 April marks the anniversary of the founding of the Geneva-based World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948.

• The year 2023 marks the 75th anniversary of WHO.
• Theme 2023: “Health for all”

International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda is observed annually on 7^th April to honour the memory of the victims of the 1994 genocide against Tutsi, Hutu and others who opposed it in Rwanda.

• The year 2023 marks the 29^th anniversary of the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

International Romani Day is observed annually on 8^th April to celebrate the Romani culture and create awareness about the difficulties faced by the Romani community across the globe.

• The day was officially declared in honour of the 1^st major international meeting of Romani representatives, 7^th to 12^th April 1971 in Chelsfield near London, the United Kingdom (UK). 

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Valour Day (Shaurya Diwas) is observed annually on 9^th April, as a tribute to the brave men of the force. The year 2023 marks the 58^th CRPF Valour Day.

World Homeopathy Day is observed annually on 10^th April to highlight the importance of homoeopathy and its contribution to the world of medicine.

• The day also commemorate the birth anniversary of the founder of homoeopathy, Dr. Christian Fredrich Samuel Hahnemann. The year 2023 marks his 268^th birth anniversary.
• Theme 2023: “Homoeoparivar – Sarvajan Swasthya, One Health, One Family”

National Safe Motherhood Day is observed annually across India on 11^th April to raise awareness of properhealth care and maternity facilities for pregnant and lactating women. The day also marks the birth anniversary of Kasturba Gandhi, an Indian political activist and wife of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi.

• The year 2023 marks the 154^th birth anniversary of Kasturba Gandhi.

World Parkinson’s Disease Day is observed annually on 11^th April to spread awareness of Parkinson’s disease, which is a progressive nervous system disorder.

• The day also marks the birth anniversary of Dr James Parkinson from London, who was the first person to systematically describe the six individuals with the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.

International Day of Human Space Flight is observed annually on 12^th April to mark the anniversary of the first human space flight by Russian cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin on 12^th April 1961.

• The year 2023 marks the 62^nd anniversary of the first human spaceflight. The day was first observed in 2011.

International Day of Street Children is observed annually on 12^th April to recognise the humanity, dignity and defiance of street children in the face of unimaginable hardships. The day was first observed in 2012.

Siachen Day is observed annually on 13^th April to commemorate the courage of the Indian Army under “Operation Meghdoot”. The day also honours Siachen Warriors serving their motherland successfully from the enemy.

• The year 2023 marks 39^th Siachen Day.
• Operation Meghdoot: It was launched on 13 April 1984. The military action resulted in Indian troops gaining control of the entire Siachen Glacier.

The 104^th Anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre has been observed on 13^th April 2023 to pay homage to the martyrs who lost their lives in the massacre during the British rule on 13^th April 1919.

• Jallianwala Bagh Massacre is also known as Massacre of Amritsar. During this massacre, British troops commanded by Brig. Gen. Reginald Edward Harry Dyer fired on a large crowd of unarmed Indians in an open space known as the Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar in Punjab.

International Turban Day is observed annually on 13^th April to spread awareness about the distinct appearance of Sikhs who love and respect principles of faith which obligate keeping hair uncut and covered with a turban.

• The turban, also known as “dastar” or “pagri” or “pag” refers to the garment worn by both men and some women to cover their heads.
• The year 2023 marks the 554^th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev and the festival of Baisakhi.
• The day was first observed in 2004.

World Chagas Disease Day is observed annually on 14^th April to spread public awareness and visibility among people about Chagas Disease (also called American trypanosomiasis).

• Theme 2023: ‘Time to integrate Chagas disease into primary health care’
• The day was first observed in 2020.

Ambedkar Jayanti is observed annually on 14^th April to commemorate the birth anniversary of Babasaheb Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar. The year 2023 marks the 132^nd birth anniversary of him. The day was first observed in 2015.

World Art Day is observed annually on 15^th April to promote awareness about fine arts worldwide. The day also commemorate the birth anniversary of Italian polymath Leonardo da Vinci.

• The day is organized by the International Association of Art (IAA), an NGO working in official partnership with UNESCO. The day was first observed in 2012.

World Voice Day is observed annually on 16^th April to demonstrate the enormous importance of the voice in the daily lives of all people. The day was first observed by the Brazilian Society of Laryngology and Voice under the chairmanship of Dr Nedio Steffen in 1999.

• The motto of World Voice Day 2023 is ‘Your Voice Matters’.

World Hemophilia Day is observed annually on 17^th April to increase awareness of hemophilia and other inherited bleeding disorders. The day is celebrated by the World Federation of Hemophilia (WHF). The day also marks the birth anniversary of Frank Schnabel, the founder of WHF.

• Theme 2023: “Access for All: Prevention of bleeds as the global standard of care”
• The day was first observed in 1989.

World Heritage Day, also known as International Day for Monuments and Sites, is observed annually on 18^th April to raise awareness about preserving the history, diversity, and vulnerability of world heritage sites and monuments.

• The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) announced 18^th April as World Heritage Day in 1982. This was approved by the General Assembly of UNESCO in 1983.
• Theme 2023: “Heritage Changes”
• UNESCO has designated a total of 1155 monuments in 167 countries as UNESCO world heritage sites.
• As of 2023, India has 40 world heritage sites (1 mixed site, 7 natural sites, and 32 cultural sites), which include the recently added Dholavira (Gujarat), and Kakatiya Rudreshwara Temple (Telangana).

World Liver Day is observed annually on 19^th April to create awareness about the causes of liver disease and suggest ways to prevent it so that holistic liver care can be taken.

• The liver is the second largest and the second most complex organ in the body, after the brain. It regulates blood sugar, removes toxic substances from the body, helps blood clot, and controls cholesterol levels.Theme 2023: “Be vigilant, do a regular liver check-up, fatty liver can affect anyone.”

UN Chinese Language Day is observed annually on 20^th April to pay tribute to Cangjie, who is a mythical figure who is presumed to have invented Chinese characters about 5,000 years ago. The day was first celebrated on 12 November in 2010, but since 2011 the day is celebrated on 20 April.

• Theme 2023: “Chinese Wisdom for a Green World”

National Civil Service Day is observed annually on 21^st April to commemorate the day when Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first Home Minister of Independent India addressed probationers of Administrative Services Officers at Delhi’s Metcalf House in 1947. In his address, he called Civil Servants, the ‘Steel Frame of India’.

• The year 2023 marks the 16^th Civil Service Day.
• Theme 2023: “Viksit Bharat: Empowering Citizens and Reaching the Last Mile”
• The day is also observed to appreciate all the public officers who are engaged in several public departments and work tirelessly to run the administrative machinery of the country.
• Note: Charles Cornwallis is known as the father of the Indian Civil Service.

World Earth Day, also known as International Mother Earth Day, is observed annually on 22^nd April to protect the environment, restore damaged ecosystems and live a more sustainable life. The day was first celebrated in 1970.

• The year 2023 marks its 53^rd anniversary of the Earth Day.
• United Nation officially renamed Earth Day as International Mother Earth Day in 2009.

World Book and Copyright Day is observed annually on 23^rd April to promote the benefits of reading, writing books, translating, publishing and copyright. The day is organized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The day was first observed in 1996.

• Theme 2023: “Indigenous Languages”
• Note: Accra (Ghana) has been named as the World Book Capital of 2023.

UN English Language Day is observed annually on 23^rd April to create awareness and promote history, culture, and achievements associated with the English Language. The day also commemorate the birth and death anniversary of William Shakespeare, an English playwright, poet and actor. The day was first observed in 2010.

National Panchayati Raj Day is observed annually on 24^th April to commemorate the Panchayati Raj Systems in India. The day is also marked to honour the passing of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act in 1992. The day was first observed in 2010.

• The 73rd Amendment Act, also known as the Panchayati Raj amendment act allowed the state governments to take necessary steps and measures that can help in the formation of gram panchayats and allow them to operate as “units of self-governance”.
• The act came into effect on 24th April 1993.
• Note: Balwant Rai Mehta is known as the Father of Panchayati Raj in India.

World Health Organization (WHO) has observed the World Immunization Week 2023 from 24^th April to 30^th April 2023 to highlight the collective action needed and to promote the use of vaccines to protect people of all ages against disease. It is observed annually in the last week of April.

• Theme 2023: ‘The Big Catch-Up’
• The week was first observed in 2012.

World Malaria Day is observed annually on 25^th April to spread awareness to control and eradicate malaria. It is a preventable and treatable disease. It is caused due to the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito (which is infected with the malaria-causing plasmodium parasite).

• Theme 2023: “Time to deliver zero malaria: invest, innovate, implement”
• The day was first observed in 2008.
• According to the latest World Malaria Report, published in December 2022, malaria claimed the lives of an estimated 619 000 people in 2021, compared to 625 000 in 2020. There were some 247 million new cases of malaria in 2021 compared to 245 million in 2020.

World Intellectual Property Day is observed annually on 26^th April to spread awareness of the impact of how patents, copyright, trademarks and design affect our daily life. The day was established by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in 2000.

• Theme 2023: ‘Women and IP: Accelerating innovation and creativity’

International Girls in ICT Day is observed annually on the fourth Thursday in April to bring attention to the need of the girls and women in the ICT (Information and Communications Technology) sector. The day was first observed in 2011.

• In 2023, the day falls on 27^th April.
• Theme 2023: ‘Digital Skills for Life’
• The global Girls in ICT event in 2023 has been held in Harare, Zimbabwe as part of the Transform Africa Summit 2023, in coordination and collaboration with the Postal and Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) and Smart Africa.

World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed annually on 28^th April to promote the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases globally. The day was first observed in 2003 by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

• Theme 2023: “A safe and healthy working environment as a fundamental principle and right at work”

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Important Dates and Days of March 2023

World Meteorological Day is observed annually on 23^rd March to spread awareness about the behaviour of the Earth’s atmosphere and to emphasize the role of individuals and their actions in protecting the atmosphere of the Earth.   

• The day commemorates the coming into force on 23 March 1950 of the Convention establishing the World Meteorological Organization. The day was first observed in 1961.
• Theme 2023: “The future of weather, climate and water across generations”

Martyrs Day, also known as Shaheed Diwas, is annually observed in India on 23^rd March to pay tribute to Bhagat Singh, Shivaram Rajguru, and Sukhdev Thapar who were hanged to death in 1931 in the Central Jail at Lahore (now in Pakistan). The year 2023 marks the 92^nd death anniversary of the trio.

Assam Rifles (AR), a central paramilitary force responsible for border security, counter-insurgency, and maintaining law and order in Northeast India, has observed its 188^th Raising Day on 24^th March 2023 at its Laitkor Garrison, Shillong, Meghalaya.

• Assam Rifles was raised on 24^th March 1835. The force was redesigned as Assam Frontier Police in 1883, Assam Military Police in 1891, and East Bengal and Assam Military Police in 1913. It got its present name in 1917.

World Tuberculosis Day (WTD) is observed annually on 24^th March to create public awareness about the devastating health, social and economic consequences of tuberculosis (TB) and to step up efforts to end the global TB epidemic. The date marks the day in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch announced that he had discovered the bacterium (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) that causes TB, which opened the way towards diagnosing and curing this disease.

• Theme 2023: “Yes! We can end TB!”

International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims is observed annually on 24^th March to pay tribute to Monsignor Óscar Arnulfo Romero, who was murdered on 24 March 1980. He was actively engaged in denouncing violations of the human rights of the most vulnerable individuals in El Salvador. The day was first observed in 2011.

International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade is observed annually on 25^th March to honour and remember those who suffered and died as a consequence of the transatlantic slave trade. The day was first observed in 2008.

• Theme 2023: “Fighting slavery’s legacy of racism through transformative education”

International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members is observed annually on 25^th March by the United Nations (UN) to commemorate the abduction of a journalist named Alec Collett, who died while on a UN assignment.

Earth Hour is observed annually on the last Saturday of March month to show support for the fight against climate change and commitment towards a better planet. This year, the day falls on 25^th March 2023.

• The day is organized by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to encourage individuals, communities, corporates, and households to turn off their lights for one hour, from 8:30 to 9:30 PM.
• The day was started as a lights out event in Sydney, Australia in 2007.

World Theatre Day is observed annually on 27^th March by the International Theatre Institute (ITI) Centres and the international theatre community. It was initiated in 1961 by ITI. The first World Theatre Day Message was written by Jean Cocteau in 1962.

• The year 2023 marks the 61st anniversary of World Theatre Day.
• Theme 2023: “Theatre and a Culture of Peace”

World Piano Day is observed annually on the 88^th day of the year (mostly falls on 29th or 28th March). This year, the day falls on 29^th March 2023. The day aims to celebrate the Piano, an acoustic, keyboard, stringed percussion instrument.

• German pianist Nils Frahm declared the 88th day of a year as the World Piano Day, as modern standard pianos have 88 keys.
• The day was first observed in 2015.

International Day of Zero Waste is observed annually on 30^th March to promote sustainable consumption and production patterns, support the societal shift towards circularity and raise awareness about how zero-waste initiatives contribute to the advancement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

• The year 2023 marks the first-ever Zero Waste Day.

On 14 December 2022, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution at its 77^th session to proclaim 30 March as International Day of Zero Waste, to be observed annually.

• The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) jointly facilitate the observance of International Day of Zero Waste.
• Note: ‘Swachhotsav – 2023’ has been organised by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs as part of India’s celebration of the International Day of Zero Waste 2023. Around 1000 cities have been targeted to become 3-Star Garbage Free by October 2024.

Rajasthan was formed on 30^th March 1949, after the merger of Rajputana with the Dominion of India. It is the largest state in India in terms of area and is bordered by Punjab to the north, Haryana to the northeast, Uttar Pradesh to the east, Madhya Pradesh to the southeast, Gujarat to the southwest, and Pakistan to the west.

• 30^th March is observed annually as Rajasthan Day.
• The year 2023 marks the 73^rd foundation day of the state.

World Backup Day is observed annually on 31^st March to raise awareness of how to safely backup data to introduce people to the 3-2-1 strategy. 3-2-1 backup is all about having three copies of your data: one on your computer, one on an external storage device and another offsite on a cloud storage solution.

• Originally, World Backup Day began as World Backup Month, by a hard drive company named Maxtor which was later acquired by Seagate Technology.

International Transgender Day of Visibility is observed annually on 31^st March to celebrate the achievements and contributions of transgender and gender-diverse people around the world, as well as raise awareness of the work that still needs to be done to eliminate discrimination and other barriers within all aspects of society.

• The day was founded by US-based transgender activist Rachel Crandall of Michigan.
• The day was first observed in 2009.

International Day of Drug Checking is observed annually on 31^st March to ensure people are educated on drugs and alert to their effects. The day also raise public awareness of the availability of drug checking services and companies from across the planet. The day was first observed in 2017.

National Vaccination Day or National Immunisation Day is observed annually on 16^th March to spread awareness about the importance of vaccines. The day also marks the victory of India against polio disease. The day was first observed in 1995.

• Note: India was declared polio-free in 2014.

World Sleep Day is observed annually across the globe on Friday before Spring Vernal Equinox. The day aims to raise awareness of sleep as a human privilege that is often compromised by the habits of modern life. The day was first observed in 2008 by the World Sleep Society (WSS).

• In 2023, the day falls on 17^th March 2023.  
• Theme 2023: ‘Sleep is Essential for Health’

Global Recycling Day is observed annually on 18^th March to help recognise, and celebrate, the importance recycling plays in securing the future of our planet.

• Theme 2023: ‘Creative Innovation’
• The day was first observed in 2018.
• The day is an initiative of the Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) based in Brussels, Belgium.

Ordnance Factory Day is observed annually across India on 18^th March to mark the foundation of the 1^st Ordnance Factory at Cossipore near Kolkata, West Bengal, in 1801 and honour the contribution of the Indian Ordnance Factories (IOFs) in strengthening India’s defence capabilities.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has participated in the 84^th Raising Day program of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on 19^th March 2023. The program has been organized in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh.

• CRPF was came into existence in 1939, as Crown Representative’s Police.
• It was renamed as CRPF on 28^th December 1949.
• CRPF Raising Day is celebrated to mark the day when the then Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel presented colours to the CRPF in 1950 after the enactment of the CRPF Act and the name of the force was changed to its present name.

World Sparrow Day is observed annually on 20^th March to create awareness about the house sparrow and the dangers it confronts. The day was first observed in 2010.

• Theme 2023: “I LOVE Sparrows”
• The day was established by Mohammed Dilawar, the founder of The Nature Forever Society.

International Day of Happiness, also known as World Happiness Day, is observed annually on 20^th March to spread awareness about the importance of happiness in our lives.

• Theme 2023: “Be Mindful. Be Grateful. Be Kind”
• The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), in 2011, adopted a resolution which recognised happiness as a “fundamental human goal” and called for “a more inclusive, equitable and balanced approach to economic growth that promotes the happiness and well-being of all peoples”.
• The day was first observed in 2013.

World Oral Health Day is observed annually on 20^th March to spread global awareness of the issues around oral health and the importance of oral hygiene so that governments, health associations and the general public can work together to achieve healthier mouths and happier lives.

• The theme for World Oral Health Day 2021-2023 is: Be Proud of Your Mouth.
• The day was originally observed on 12th September in remembrance of FDI founder, Dr Charles Godon. It was changed to 20th March in 2013.

World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People is observed annually on 20^th March to attract the attention of a wider public to the art of theatre for children and young people. The day is a campaign led by the International Association of Theatre for Children and Young People (ASSITEJ International). The day was first observed in 2001.

UN French Language Day is annually observed across the globe on 20^th March to celebrate French multilingualism and cultural diversity. The day is recognized by the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) as the International Day of La Francophonie.

• Theme 2023: “321 Million French speakers, billions of cultural content”

Pakhala Diwas is observed annually on 20^th March in Odisha. The day is observed across the globe where people eat a traditional Odia dish, ‘Pakhala’ (also known as Dahi Pakhala).

• Pakhala is prepared with rice, curd, cucumber, cumin seeds, fried onions, and mint leaves.
• It is popularly served with dry roasted vegetables such as potato, brinjal, Spanish or fried fish.
• The liquid part of the dish is known as Torani. It is a typical summer-time Odia staple diet.

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on 21^st March to create awareness among people about the negative consequences of racial discrimination. It is observed annually on the day the police in Sharpeville, South Africa, opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration against apartheid “pass laws” in 1960.

• The 2023 theme of the International Day focuses on the urgency of combatting racism and racial discrimination, 75 years after the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

World Forestry Day, also known as International Day of Forests, is observed annually on 21^st March to celebrate and raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests.

• Theme 2023: “Forests and health”
• The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21st March the International Day of Forests in 2012.

World Down Syndrome Day is observed annually on 21^st March to create public awareness about the syndrome and well-being of people with Down syndrome.

• Theme 2023: “With Us Not For Us”
• The day was first observed in 2012.

Down syndrome is a condition in which the child is born with an extra 21st chromosome. The child born with this condition is likely to suffer thyroid or heart-related problems.

International Day of Nowruz is observed annually on 21^st March to promote values of peace and solidarity between generations and within families as well as reconciliation and neighbourliness.

• The word Nowruz means ‘new day’.
• The day was first observed in 2010.
• The day is celebrated in many countries having significant Persian cultural influence like Iran, Iraq, India, Afghanistan and parts of Central Asia.
• It is celebrated by Kurds in Iraq and Turkey, as well as by the Iranis, Shias and Parsis in the Indian subcontinent and diaspora.

World Puppetry Day is annually observed across the globe on 21^st March to recognize puppetry as a global art form. The day was first observed in 2003.

• Theme 2023: “Call of the Forest”

World Poetry Day is observed annually on 21^st March to honour poets, revive oral traditions of poetry recitals, promote the reading, writing and teaching of poetry, foster the convergence between poetry and other arts such as theatre, dance, music and painting, and raise the visibility of poetry in the media. UNESCO first adopted 21st March as World Poetry Day during its 30th General Conference in Paris in 1999. The day was fist observed in 2000.

• Theme 2023: ‘Always be a poet, even in prose’

World Water Day is observed annually on 22^nd March to highlight the importance of freshwater and to spread awareness about it.

• The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), in 1992, adopted a resolution declaring 22nd March as World Water Day.
• The day was celebrated for the first time in 1993.
• Theme 2023: ‘Accelerating the change to solve the water and sanitation crisis’
• Note: India is the largest groundwater-user globally, followed by China and Pakistan.

International Women’s Day (IWD) is observed annually on 8^th March to recognise the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

• Theme 2023: “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality”
• IWD 2023 campaign theme is #EmbraceEquity.
• This day was adopted by the United Nations in the year 1977.

No Smoking Day is observed annually on the second Wednesday of March to create awareness about the detrimental health impacts of smoking and other forms of tobacco intake. This year, the day falls on 8^th March 2023.

World Kidney Day (WKD) is observed annually on the second Thursday of March to spread awareness of the importance of our kidneys to our overall health and to reduce the frequency and impact of kidney disease and its associated health problems worldwide.

• This year, the day falls on 9^th March 2023.
• Theme 2023: “Kidney Health for All – Preparing for the unexpected, supporting the vulnerable!”
• The day was first observed in 2006.

International Day of Women Judges is observed annually on 10^th March to promote the full and equal participation of women at all levels of the judiciary and to celebrate the progress that has been made and raise awareness about the challenges ahead. The day was first observed in 2022.

Note: Fathima Beevi from Kerala become the first female judge of the Supreme Court of India in 1989.

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) Raising Day is observed annually across India on 10^th March to commemorate the establishment of CISF in 1969. The year 2023 marks the observance of the 54^th Raising Day of CISF.

The CISF Raising Day 2023 has been observed at the National Industrial Security Academy (NISA) in Hyderabad, Telangana.

Central Industrial Security Force (CISF):

CISF is a federal police organisation in India under the Ministry of Home Affairs. It is the only force with a customized and dedicated fire wing.

• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Director-General: Sheel Vardhan Singh

World Glaucoma Day is observed annually on 12^th March to create awareness about glaucoma and to alert everyone to have regular eye check-ups to detect glaucoma as early as possible.

• Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness.
• World Glaucoma Week has also been observed from 12^th to 18^th March 2023.
• The theme of World Glaucoma Week 2023 is ‘The world is bright, save your sight’.

World Rotaract Day is observed annually on 13^th March to acknowledge the services provided by the rotaractors across the world. The day is also observed to commemorate the founding of the first rotary club in 1968.

• 13^th March 2023 marks the observance of the 55^th anniversary of the formation of the 1^st Rotaract club in 1968 in North Carolina, the USA.
• World Rotaract Week has been organized from 13 March 2023 to 19 March 2023.

International Day of Mathematics, also known as Pi Day, is observed annually on 14^th March to highlight the significant role played by the mathematical sciences in the achievement of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

• Theme 2023: “Mathematics for Everyone”
• The day was first observed in 2020.

International Day of Action for Rivers is observed annually on 14^th March to create awareness about the value and importance of rivers. The day was formally known as International Day of Action against Dams, for Rivers, Water, and Life.

• The year 2023 marks the 26th anniversary of the International Day of Action for Rivers.

World Consumer Rights Day is observed annually on 15^th March to safeguard consumer rights and to ensure that customers are not subjected to market exploitation or social injustice that may jeopardize their rights.

• Theme 2023: “Empowering consumers through clean energy transitions”
• The day was first observed in 1983.

This day was chosen because it was on this day that U.S. President John Fitzgerald Kennedy mentioned four important consumer rights in his speech to Congress:

• Right to safety
  • Right to be informed
  • Right to choose
  • Right to be heard

Note: National Consumers Rights Day is observed annually across India on 24^th December.

International Day to Combat Islamophobia is observed annually on 15^th March. The day was first observed in 2022.

• The day was introduced by Pakistan’s permanent representative to United Nations (UN), Munir Akram on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries.
• It marks the day when a gunman entered two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, killing 51 worshippers and wounding 40 others in the terror attack.

Jan Aushadhi Diwas is observed annually on 7^th March to spread awareness about the usages of generic medicines and the benefits of Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana. The day was first celebrated in the year 2019.

• Theme 2023: “Jan Aushadhi-Sasti Bhi Achi Bhi”.
• It is observed by the Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI).
• The year 2023 marks the 5^th Jan Aushadhi Diwas.
• Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers has organized the Janaushadhi Diwas week from 1st March to 7th March 2023.

Note: The Government has set a target to increase the number of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) to 10,000 by the end of December 2023.

International Day for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Awareness is observed annually on 5^th March to spread awareness and understanding of disarmament issues, especially among young people.

• The year 2023 marks the observance of the 1^st International Day for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Awareness.
• The day was proposed by Kyrgyzstan and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2022.

National Security Day or Rashtriya Suraksha Diwas is observed annually across India on 4^th March to honour the security forces of India and to commemorate the establishment of the National Safety Council (NSC). The day is also observed to show gratitude to all the security forces, including policemen, para-military forces, commandos, guards, army officers, and other persons involved in security.

• NSC of India was established by then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1998.
• The present National Security Advisor is Ajit Doval.

National Safety Week is observed annually across India from 4^th to 10^th March to spread awareness about the importance of safety and health in the workplace and to promote a culture of safety among the general public.

• The year 2023 marks the observance of the 52^nd National Safety Week.
• Theme 2023: “Our Aim-Zero Harm”

4^th March also marks the observance of the National Safety Day. The day commemorates the establishment of the National Safety Council (NSC) which was founded on 4^th March 1966 by the Ministry of Labour and Employment (MoL&E). The day was first observed in 1972.

• World Day of Fight Against Sexual Exploitation is observed annually on 4^th March to spread awareness about preventing sexual exploitation and to provide support to victims of sexual abuse.
• March 4^th has been designated World Day of Fight Against Sexual Exploitation since 2009.

World Obesity Day is observed annually on 4^th March to spread awareness about the risks of obesity and to promote practical solutions to end the global obesity crisis. The day was first observed on 11^th October 2015. The date was changed to 4^th March in 2020.

• Theme 2023: “Changing Perspectives: Let’s Talk About Obesity”

World Hearing Day is observed annually on 3rd March to create awareness on how to prevent deafness and hearing loss and promote ear and hearing care across the world.

• Theme 2023: “Ear and hearing care for all! Let’s make it a reality”
• The day was first observed in 2007 by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

World Wildlife Day (WWD) is observed annually on 3^rd March to spread awareness about the world’s wild fauna and flora. The day also reminds us of the need to fight against wildlife crime and human-induced reduction of species causing various wide-ranging economic, environmental and social impacts.

• Theme 2023: “Partnerships for wildlife conservation”
• The day was proposed by Thailand and recognised in 2013 by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has observed its 18th Foundation Day on 1st March 2023 at 15 August Maidan, Red Fort, New Delhi.

The Civil Accounts Day is observed annually on 1^st March to commemorate the foundation of the Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS). The year 2023 marks the observance of the 47^th Civil Accounts Day.

• The 47^th Civil Accounts Day has been observed at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, Janpath, New Delhi
• On the occasion, Union Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary was the Chief Guest. Union Finance Secretary Dr T.V. Somanathan also addressed audience during the occasion.

Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS):

• The ICAS was founded on 1^st March 1976, as a result of a historical reform in the public financial administration when the maintenance of Accounts of the Union Government was separated from that of Audit.
• The Controller General of Accounts is the Principal Accounting Advisor to the Government of India and oversees the payment and accounting system of the country.
• World Civil Defence Day is observed annually on 1^st March to raise awareness about the importance of civil defence measures in protecting people and their property from natural disasters, accidents, and other emergencies.

• The International Civil Defence Organisation (ICDO) established World Civil Defence Day in 1990 to recognise the critical role of civil defence organisations in safeguarding communities.
• Theme 2023: “The role of information technology in risk assessment”

Zero Discrimination Day is observed annually on 1^st March to ensure right to equality, inclusion and protection of all people without any discrimination in their law and policies to live a full life with dignity regardless of any barriers.

• Theme 2023: “Save lives: Decriminalise”
• The day was first observed in 2014 by the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS).

Important Dates and Days of February 2023

Important Dates and Days of April 2022

Important Dates and Days of March 2022

Important Dates and Days of February 2022

Important Dates and Days of January 2022

Important Dates and Days of December 2021

Important Dates and Days of November 2021

Important Dates and Days of October 2021

Date	Event	Theme
October 1, 2021	International Day of Older Persons	Digital Equity for All Ages
October 2, 2021	International Day of Non-Violence
October 4, 2021	World Habitat Day	Accelerating urban action for a carbon-free world
October 5, 2021	World Teachers’ Day	Teachers at the heart of education recovery
October 7, 2021	World Cotton Day
October 7, 2021	World Post Day	Innovate to recover
October 9, 2021	World Migratory Bird Day	Sing, Fly, Soar – Like a Bird!
October 10, 2021	World Mental Health Day
October 11, 2021	International Day of the Girl	Digital generation. Our generation
October 13, 2021	International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction
October 14, 2021	World Standards Day	our shared vision for a better world
October 15, 2021	Global Handwashing Day	Our Future is at Hand—Let’s Move Forward Together
October 16, 2021	World Food Day
October 17, 2021	International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
October 20, 2021	World Statistics Day	Connecting the world with data we can trust
October 24, 2021	United Nations Day	Building Back Together for Peace and Prosperity
October 24, 2021	World Development Information Day

Important Dates and Days of September 2021

Important Dates and Days of August 2021

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Important Dates and Days of May 2021

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Important Dates and Days of December 2020

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Important Dates and Days of September 2020

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