Important Days and Events Current Affairs MCQs

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World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3, 2024, focuses on “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis.” Emphasizing journalism’s role in addressing global environmental issues, it highlights the importance of a free press in informing the public and holding decision-makers accountable. Proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1993, it commemorates the Declaration of Windhoek, promoting press freedom globally.

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On May 3, 2024, the Permanent Mission of India to the UN and the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, with UNFPA, host “Localizing the SDGs: Women in Local Governance in India Lead the Way” during CPD57 in New York. Elected women representatives, including Sabhadhipati Supriya Das Datta (Tripura), Sarpanch Kunuku Hema Kumari (Andhra Pradesh), and Sarpanch Neeru Yadav (Rajasthan), led by Secretary Vivek Bharadwaj, will showcase Indian women’s grassroots leadership.

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The Border Road Organisation (BRO) marked its 65th raising day on May 7, 2024, with a ceremony in New Delhi, led by Union Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane. Established in 1960 by the Nehru government, BRO undertakes critical road projects for the Army. Notably, Project Tuskar, now Project Vartak, connects Bhalukpong to Tenga in Arunachal Pradesh, while Project Beacon focuses on Kashmir. Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan currently heads BRO, operating under the Ministry of Defence with the motto: “In the Silence of Our Great Mountains – Work Speaks.”

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In celebration of World Asthma Day 2024, GINA promotes the theme “Asthma Education Empowers”, stressing the importance of educating those with asthma for effective disease management and timely medical intervention. With over 260 million affected globally, asthma causes over 450,000 preventable deaths annually. Health professionals are urged to enhance their understanding of asthma’s impact and evidence-based management to offer optimal care and reduce avoidable morbidity and mortality.

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The sixth Commandants’ Conclave convened at MILIT, Pune on May 7, 24, hosted by HQ Integrated Defence Staff. Commandants of esteemed Armed Forces Training Institutions and War Colleges, alongside senior leadership, strategized on future defence strategies. They exchanged insights, shared best practices, and discussed topics like strategic resilience, technological advancement, and human capital development. The event highlighted the commitment to innovation and collaboration in training future leaders amidst evolving global challenges.

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IndiaSkills 2024, the nation’s largest skill competition, kicked off in New Delhi on May 15, 2024, at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka. Organized by NSDC under MSDE, it spans 61 categories, testing skills nationwide until May 18. This biennial event enjoys broad support from state governments, industry, SSCs, SSDMs, corporates, and partner institutes. It provides a crucial platform for youth to exhibit their talents nationally and internationally.

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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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World Schizophrenia Day, observed on May 24, aims to raise awareness about the serious mental illness affecting over 21 million people worldwide. It seeks to dispel myths, including the misconception of split personalities, associated with schizophrenia. Symptoms include confused thinking, delusions, and hallucinations. In 2024, the theme “Celebrating the Power of Community Kindness” emphasizes the importance of inclusive and supportive environments for individuals with schizophrenia, focusing on empowerment and community involvement.

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Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific & Middle East announced the Green Airports Recognition (GAR) 2024 results, honoring 12 airports for sustainability achievements. The 2024 theme, Biodiversity and Nature-Based Solutions, encouraged airports to implement best practices. Efforts included planting trees for carbon reduction, marine life conservation, wetland and ecological restoration, in-house horticulture, and wildlife management strategies to ensure safe operations while preserving biodiversity.

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The theme for Yoga Day 2024 is ‘Yoga for Self and Society’, emphasizing its holistic benefits for health and well-being. Established by the United Nations in 2014, at the suggestion of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the International Day of Yoga is celebrated annually on June 21, coinciding with the summer solstice. This day highlights yoga’s transformative power and its role in promoting balance and harmony in individuals and communities worldwide.