Important Days and Events Current Affairs MCQs

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World Down Syndrome Day is observed globally on 21 March to raise awareness and support affected individuals and families. Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21, leading to developmental differences. Normally, a newborn has 46 chromosomes, but an extra chromosome 21 results in Down syndrome. The theme for World Down Syndrome Day 2025 is “Improve Our Support Systems.” The theme focuses on strengthening inclusive support systems to ensure better care, education, and opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome.

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The 20th meeting of the Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA-20) has begun in Rome. Global leaders are discussing strategies to conserve plant and forest genetic resources and will release two major global reports. CGRFA is a permanent intergovernmental body under the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), established in 1983 and expanded in 1995. It aims to promote sustainable biodiversity use, enhance food security, and ensure fair benefit-sharing. The headquarters of CGRFA is in Rome, Italy.

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International Mine Awareness Day is observed every year on April 4 to raise awareness about the dangers of landmines and promote demining efforts. The 2025 theme, “Safe Futures Start Here,” highlights the impact of landmines, especially in war-affected regions. Landmines, including Anti-Personnel Mines (APM), Anti-Vehicle Mines (AVM), and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), continue to cause civilian casualties long after conflicts end. First observed in 2006, the day emphasizes global efforts in mine clearance, victim support, and the use of new technologies to create a landmine-free world.

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The National Tribal Youth Festival is celebrated in Mizoram at the State Tribal Resource Centre, Kelsih, near Aizawl, starting from April 8. It is a four-day festival held to mark the 150th birth anniversary of tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda. The festival aims to honour tribal heroes and inspire patriotism among the youth and the general public. Top Mizo artists and members of the Mizo Zaimi Insuikhawm (MZI) are performing at the event. Cultural shows by the Mizo Cultural Organisation and other groups showcase a “Mosaic of Cultures.” Artists like Imnainla Jamir from Nagaland and Vawnchawi Vaiphei from Manipur are also part of the celebrations.

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World Hemophilia Day is observed annually on April 17. The day raises awareness and supports individuals affected by hemophilia and other bleeding disorders. Its main goal is to educate the public, improve the quality of life for patients, and unite efforts for better treatment. The day was first observed in 1989 by the World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH). The date honors the birthday of Frank Schnabel, the founder of World Federation of Hemophilia. The theme of this year is “Access for All: Women and Girls Bleed Too,” highlighting an often overlooked reality.

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Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22 and is one of the largest global movements for environmental protection. The theme for Earth Day 2025 is “OUR POWER, OUR PLANET,” calling for a major shift to renewable energy. It urges individuals, businesses, and governments to triple clean energy production by 2030. The first Earth Day was held on April 22, 1970, led by United States Senator Gaylord Nelson to raise awareness about environmental issues. Around 20 million Americans joined that day, making up 10% of the U.S. population. In 1990, Earth Day became a global event with over 200 million people from 141 countries participating. It reminds us of our shared duty to care for nature and tackle climate change.

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World Day for Animals in Laboratories is observed annually on April 24. It raises awareness about the suffering of animals used in scientific testing and research. It was introduced in 1979 by the National Anti-Vivisection Society, it is recognized by many countries and animal rights groups as a symbol of compassion and a call for change in scientific experimentation. The date was chosen in honor of Lord Hugh Dowding, a prominent advocate for animal rights.

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World Malaria Day is observed every year on April 25th to raise awareness about malaria. It is a global initiative by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to fight against malaria and work towards its elimination. The theme for this year is “Malaria ends with us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite,” urging renewed action at all levels. Malaria is caused by parasites transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. It affects millions, mostly in tropical and subtropical regions, and remains a serious public health challenge.

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World Veterinary Day 2025 was observed on April 26th to celebrate the role of veterinary professionals. The 2025 theme, “Animal Health Takes a Team,” highlights the importance of teamwork in veterinary medicine. It was first started by the World Veterinary Association (WVA) in the year 2000. In India, it is led by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. The day recognises the efforts of veterinarians in improving animal health, protecting human health, and safeguarding the environment. India has over 536 million livestock, the highest in the world.

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World Metrology Day is celebrated every year on May 20 to highlight the importance of metrology, which is the science of measurement. The day is promoted by the Measurements Standards Laboratory (MSL). The theme for World Metrology Day 2025 is “Measurements for all times, for all people.” The first World Metrology Day was observed in 1961. It commemorates the signing of the famous Metre Convention held in Paris, France in 1875. This led to the creation of the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM) and the International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML). The World Metrological Organization, formed in 1950, plays a key role in protecting public health and safety through accurate measurements.