Important Days and Dates GK Questions

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The ‘Yoga Mahotsav’ at Wadia College Sports Ground, Pune, marked the 75-day countdown to the International Day of Yoga. Organized jointly by Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga and National Institute of Naturopathy, Govt. of India, thousands gathered, actively participating in the Common Yoga Protocol. This event showcased the increasing significance of Yoga in promoting individual and societal well-being, highlighting enthusiasm for its practice and benefits.

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The 12th Joint Working Group (JWG) of Indian and Mongolian defence ministers met in Ulaanbaatar on May 16-17, 2024, as part of their annual meetings. Indian delegation led by Amitabh Prasad, Joint Secretary of Defence, and Mongolian delegation by Brigadier General Gankhuyag Davagdorj. Discussions included bilateral cooperation, Indian Armed Forces capabilities, and potential collaboration in defence manufacturing. Both sides expressed satisfaction with ongoing cooperation and pledged to enhance it further.

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Anti-Terrorism Day in India commemorates the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was killed by an LTTE suicide bomber on May 21, 1991, in Sriperumbudur. This day highlights the nation’s commitment to combating terrorism and promoting peace, unity, and security. It encourages citizens to stand united against divisive and violent forces, reinforcing India’s resolve to maintain national and global stability.

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The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) celebrated Global Wind Day on June 15, 2024, highlighting India’s wind energy achievements and future potential. With the theme “Pawan–Urja: Powering the Future of India,” the event featured discussions on wind energy’s role in meeting power demand, accelerating onshore adoption, and offshore development. India, with 46.4 GW of installed wind power capacity, aims to achieve 50% non-fossil fuel-based power by 2030 and net zero by 2070.

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World Cotton Day is celebrated annually on 7th October to highlight cotton’s global significance. The day raises awareness about the challenges faced by cotton farmers and the cotton industry. Cotton is used not only in textiles but also for animal feed, medical supplies, and edible oil. India is the second-largest cotton producer globally, after China.

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The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India hosted the South Asian Telecommunication Regulators’ Council (SATRC) in Delhi. The event was organized by the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT). APT is an intergovernmental organization founded in 1979 to promote ICT development in the Asia-Pacific. APT was established with support from UNESCAP and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). APT currently has 38 member countries, 4 associate members, and over 140 affiliate members, including private companies and academic institutions involved in ICT.

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World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) is held annually from November 18-24 to raise AMR awareness. This year’s WAAW theme, “Educate. Advocate. Act now,” stresses the urgent need for AMR action. WHO estimates AMR caused 1.27 million deaths in 2019 and contributed to 4.95 million deaths globally. Key AMR risk factors in developing nations include high population, limited healthcare, and misuse of antimicrobials. The 2024 UN Political Declaration on AMR aims for 60% of countries to have funded AMR action plans by 2030. Immediate global action is needed to educate, advocate, and commit resources to tackle AMR for future health security.

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World Wildlife Conservation Day is observed on December 4 to raise awareness about protecting endangered flora and fauna. The day emphasizes the importance of wildlife conservation and encourages action to safeguard endangered species. India hosts four global biodiversity hotspots: Himalaya, Indo-Burma, Western Ghats-Sri Lanka, and Sundaland. With only 2.4% of the world’s land area, India supports 7-8% of recorded species, making it a megadiverse country.

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Veer Bal Diwas is observed annually on December 26, commemorating the bravery of Guru Gobind Singh’s youngest sons, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh. In 1705, they were captured by the Mughal forces at Anandpur Sahib, pressured to convert to Islam, and martyred for refusing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared December 26 as Veer Bal Diwas in 2022 to honor their sacrifice. In 2024, PM Modi attended the event in New Delhi, launched the Suposhit Panchayat Abhiyaan.

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National Safety Day is celebrated in India on March 4 to promote safety, health, and environmental well-being. It was launched in 1971 by the National Safety Council of India (NSC) to raise awareness and reduce accidents. The event has expanded into National Safety Week (March 4-10) with campaigns and safety activities. The 54th National Safety Day (2025) theme is “Safety & Well-being Crucial for Viksit Bharat”, emphasizing safety’s role in India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.