Important Days and Dates GK Questions

Notes:
National Tourism Day is celebrated annually on January 25 to promote responsible, sustainable, and accessible tourism. The 2025 theme, “Tourism for Inclusive Growth,” emphasizes tourism’s role in economic growth while benefiting all segments of society. India established a tourism department in 1948 to preserve heritage and enhance tourist destinations. Tourism is a major industry in India, contributing to economic growth, cultural exchange, and international understanding.

Notes:
Amit Shah chaired the 27th Western Zonal Council meeting in Pune, Maharashtra, attended by CMs, officials, and senior ministers. The council evolved from an advisory body to a platform for sharing best practices and fostering collaboration. The Western region contributes 25% to India’s GDP and is crucial for global trade, ports, and urban development. Health issues like malnutrition and stunting among children were emphasized for urgent action.

Notes:
Maharashtra Governor C P Radhakrishnan inaugurated the 62nd National Maritime Day and Merchant Navy Week at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai. National Maritime Day is celebrated in India every year on April 5. It marks the maiden voyage of SS Loyalty, the first Indian-owned ship, from Mumbai to London on April 5, 1919. Various ports and maritime organizations under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) honored the bravery and dedication of seafarers. The event highlighted India’s maritime excellence and contribution to global shipping.

Notes:
National Civil Services Day is observed every year on April 21 by the Government of India to honour the dedication of civil servants who serve the nation. It was first celebrated in 2006 and marks the day in 1947 when Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel called civil servants the “steel frame of India”. Patel addressed Administrative Services probationers at Metcalf House, Delhi, emphasizing the true spirit of public service. On this day, the Prime Minister of India gives the Prime Minister’s (PM) Awards for Excellence in Public Administration. These awards recognise outstanding work by officers in areas like innovation and district development. This year marks the 17th Civil Services Day, with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressing officers at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

Notes:
The World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed annually on April 28 to promote workplace safety and protect workers’ health globally. Initiated by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in 2003, the day advocates for better workplace safety standards and employee well-being. It raises awareness about work-related casualties and health issues. This year the theme is “Revolutionising Health and Safety: The Role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digitalisation at Work.” The theme highlights how emerging technologies are transforming Occupational Safety and Health (OSH).

Notes:
International Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) Day is celebrated every year on 27 June. The day was declared by the United Nations in 2017 to honour the role of MSMEs. This year, the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises is celebrating it as ‘Udyami Bharat – MSME Day’ with the theme “Enhancing the role of MSMEs as drivers of Sustainable Growth and Innovation. India has over 6.3 crore MSMEs, contributing about 30% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and over 45% to exports.

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World Population Day is observed every year on 11 July to raise awareness about global population issues. It was established by the United Nations (UN) in 1989. The idea came from the milestone when the world’s population reached 5 billion on 11 July 1987. This year the theme is “Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world“.

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International Anti-Corruption Day is observed every year on 9 December. It spreads awareness about the harmful effects of corruption on society, governance, development and equality. The theme for 2025 is “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity”. It focuses on the role of youth in promoting honesty and ethical behaviour. It emphasises integrity, accountability and collective action at all levels. It highlights the roles of governments, institutions and citizens in fighting corruption. It encourages students to develop moral values and civic responsibility early in life.

Notes:
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant inaugurated the World Ocean Science Congress 2026 at Dona Paula, Goa. The congress theme is “Ocean Health and Sustainable Future”. Focus areas include ocean health, climate resilience, marine ecosystems and sustainable Blue Economy. Nearly 25 percent of India’s population lives in coastal regions, making such discussions important. The event highlighted importance for fisheries, tourism, maritime economy and coastal resilience. Emphasis was laid on strengthening research through CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography and National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research. India aims to combine maritime heritage with modern innovation for sustainable ocean solutions.

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International Seed Day is celebrated on 26 April every year to promote seed sovereignty, biodiversity conservation, and farmers’ rights. It also recalls concerns over corporate control of seeds, particularly linked to Iraqi Order 81. In 2026, the focus is on local climate-resilient seeds and their role in tackling climate change. Traditional varieties like tangrashal paddy (West Bengal) and toor (red gram) in Maharashtra are highlighted. The day emphasises the role of pastoralists as custodians of biodiversity, helping in seed dispersal across regions.