Important Days and Events Current Affairs MCQs

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National Youth Day (Yuva Diwas) is observed across India on January 12. The day honours the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, a philosopher, spiritual leader, and inspiration for India’s youth. Swami Vivekananda’s teachings focus on self-confidence, discipline, and service to the nation, guiding generations even today. The Government of India declared 12 January as National Youth Day in 1984 to motivate youth and encourage their active participation in nation-building.

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The International Holocaust Remembrance Day is observed annually on January 27 across the world. It is observed to honor Jews and others massacred during the Holocaust. It marks the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp on January 27, 1945, ending World War II. The day serves as a reminder of Holocaust atrocities and promotes the fight against hatred, intolerance, and discrimination. The United Nations has designated the theme for 2026 as “Holocaust Remembrance for Dignity and Human Rights”.

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The third edition of the tri-services Future Warfare Course held at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi, from 2–25 February 2026. It is conducted under Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff in partnership with the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS). The course features an enhanced curriculum on technology-driven changes in war, doctrines, strategies, and tactics. The program aligns Armed Forces operational priorities with indigenous defence industry capabilities.

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World Pulses Day is observed every year on 10 February as a United Nations (UN)–designated global observance. It highlights the role of pulses like lentils, chickpeas, beans, and peas in nutrition, food security, and sustainable agriculture. Pulses are affordable, nutrient-rich, and major vegetarian protein sources for billions of people. The day promotes increased production and consumption to improve diets and reduce environmental impact. It supports the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, especially goals on hunger, nutrition, climate action, and sustainability.

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The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is observed every year on 11 February under the leadership of the United Nations (UN), with United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) playing a key role. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2015 and first observed in 2016 to address low participation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). The 2026 theme is “From Vision to Impact: Redefining STEM by Closing the Gender Gap,” focusing on action and implementation.

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India has been named Country of the Year at BIOFACH 2026, the world’s largest trade fair for organic products, held from 10–13 February 2026 in Nuremberg, Germany. Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is organising India’s participation. India Pavilion will cover 1,074 square metres with 67 co-exhibitors including exporters, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), cooperatives, labs, and state bodies. Organic products like rice, spices, pulses, oils, fruits, and essential oils will be showcased from over 20 States and Union Territories.

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World Radio Day is observed every year on 13 February to mark the establishment of United Nations Radio in 1946. The theme for 2026 is “Radio and Artificial Intelligence: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a tool, not a voice.” India’s first Community Radio Station was inaugurated on 1 February 2004 by Bharat Ratna Shri Lal Krishna Advani. Ram Singh Bouddh from Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, known as the “Radio Man of India,” was recognised by Guinness World Records in 2025 for owning 1,257 radios, the world’s largest collection.

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Nagaland will host first North East Festival of Rice: Grains of Heritage at Agri Expo, Chümoukedima on 26 and 27 February. Aim is to promote heirloom rice varieties, traditional farming tools and seed preservation practices. Communities from all Northeastern states including Sikkim will participate. Festival celebrates rice as core of indigenous culture and sustainable living. Craft section will showcase bamboo work, handloom textiles and agrarian-based artisanal products. Marketplace will feature farmers and entrepreneurs selling organic produce, rice-based products and handmade goods.

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India observes Central Excise Day every year on 24 February to commemorate the enactment of the Central Excise and Salt Act, 1944, which was later renamed as the Central Excise Act, 1944. The day recognises the significant contribution of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) in administering indirect taxes and strengthening revenue collection in the country. Even after the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime, Central Excise Duty continues to be levied on select items such as petroleum products, tobacco, and certain industrial goods.

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International Day of Action for Rivers is observed every year on 14 March to promote protection and sustainable management of rivers. Rivers provide fresh water, regulate climate, support biodiversity, and sustain livelihoods and cultures. Many rivers today face threats from pollution, fragmentation, climate change, and unsustainable development projects. The 2026 theme is “Protect Rivers, Protect People.” The day encourages public awareness and collective action to conserve river ecosystems.