Important Days and Events Current Affairs MCQs

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The 34th International Day of Older Persons is observed on 1 October 2024. The day highlights the challenges and opportunities of population ageing and promotes a society for all ages. It recognizes the contributions and wisdom of older persons. The UN defines older persons as 65 years or older; in India, it’s 60 years or older. The day was first observed on 1 October 1991, after a 1990 UN resolution. The 2024 theme is “Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide.”

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World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10 and was first initiated in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health. The day aims to raise awareness about mental health issues and support mental health care globally. It has become a significant platform for collaboration among governments, organizations, and individuals to promote lasting change in mental health care. The 2024 theme, “Mental Health at Work,” highlights the importance of mental health in the workplace, where around 60% of the global population is employed. It stresses the need for safe and inclusive work environments to promote mental well-being and support those in need.

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The curtain raiser for the Seventh Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly was hosted in New Delhi. The session will be held from 3rd to 6th November 2024 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, under the presidency of India and co-presidency of France. The ISA Assembly is the decision-making body of the ISA, representing all member countries. It discusses the implementation of the ISA’s framework, selects the Director General, approves the budget, and assesses solar energy programs. ISA has 120 signatory countries, with 102 as full members. India holds the presidency, and France is the co-president.

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Odisha will host the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to 10, 2024. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi approved the proposal from the Ministry of External Affairs. The event will be held at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar, attended by President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and other dignitaries. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrates Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India from South Africa on January 9, 1915, and recognizes the contributions of the Indian diaspora. The last event was held in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.

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The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) is organizing Ganga Utsav- The River Festival 2024 on November 4 at Chandi Ghat, Haridwar, marking the Ganga River as the ‘National River.’ The festival promotes Ganga conservation, its cultural and spiritual importance, and public cleanliness awareness. It will be the first Utsav on the riverbank, with celebrations across 139 districts and a major event in each Ganga basin state. It aims to strengthen people’s connection with the Ganga, foster river conservation, and raise awareness on preventing river pollution.

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The Indian Navy’s Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Seminar, Swavlamban 2024, began in New Delhi, inaugurated by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi at Bharat Mandapam. This third edition’s theme is “Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenisation.” Open to the public on 28-29 Oct 2024, the exhibition displays advanced technologies and products from Indian defence startups and MSMEs. Events on 28 Oct included sessions on problem-solving with ADITI 2.0 under iDEX, connecting startups with venture capitalists. Participation from Armed Forces, CAPFs, academia, and the public aims to boost innovation in national security.

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National Unity Day is observed every year on October 31 to honor Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was a key leader in India’s independence struggle and served as the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister. This day commemorates his efforts to unite diverse princely states into one nation and promotes national solidarity.

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The Seventh Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly starts today at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. It focuses on enhancing energy access, security, and promoting solar energy among member countries. The session is led by India with France as co-president, featuring delegates from 120 countries. Key discussions will revolve around accelerating solar deployment, especially in areas with limited energy access. Updates on flagship initiatives for entrepreneurs, skill development, and mobilizing finance for solar energy will also be shared during the three-day assembly.

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National Legal Services Day is observed annually on November 9 in India to promote legal awareness and ensure justice for all, especially marginalized communities. It was started in 1995 by the Supreme Court to provide free legal assistance to the weaker sections of society. The day emphasizes empowering people with knowledge about their legal rights and promoting conflict resolution. Legal Services Authorities across India celebrate this day with programs and initiatives, including workshops and camps. NALSA releases information on legal rights, aid schemes, and Lok Adalats to raise awareness and bridge the gap between the law and the public.

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National Education Day is celebrated on November 11 in honor of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India’s first Education Minister. It emphasizes the role of education in shaping India’s future, with 65% of the population under 35 needing quality education and skill development. The Indian government promotes education access through initiatives and laws, including the 86th Amendment, which guarantees free education for ages 6-14 as a Fundamental Right. The Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, ensures quality elementary education. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, launched under PM Modi, aims to modernize India’s education system for the 21st century.