Important Days and Events Current Affairs MCQs

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The 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2026 was inaugurated on 31 January at Surajkund in Faridabad, Haryana. The Mela Sathi App was launched to improve visitor support and experience. The event highlighted artisans as custodians of traditional knowledge and key contributors to a sustainable and inclusive economy. The central theme is “Local to Global”, promoting traditional crafts on an international platform. Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya are the theme states, and Egypt is the partner nation.

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The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is observed on 6 February each year. This observance highlights the harmful effects of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and promotes human rights and women’s health. About 4.5 million girls, many under five, are at risk each year, with 22.7 million more projected by 2030. Ending Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) requires community engagement, strong health and education systems, and sustained investment.

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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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Zero Discrimination Day is observed annually on 1st March. It is organised by the United Nations. The day promotes global solidarity to end all forms of discrimination. It encourages inclusion, compassion, peace, and positive social change. The observance educates people on equality and the importance of respecting human rights for everyone.

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World Seagrass Day is observed on March 1 to raise awareness about seagrass conservation. Seagrass is crucial for marine biodiversity, coastline stability, and carbon absorption. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declared this observance on May 22, 2022, based on Sri Lanka’s proposal. Seagrass is a flowering marine plant found in shallow coastal waters worldwide, except Antarctica. Unlike seaweed, seagrass has roots, stems, and leaves, making it similar to land plants. It provides food and shelter to many marine species and plays a key role in ecosystem health.

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Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026 was held from 2–5 March 2026 at Barcelona, Spain. It is the world’s largest event for the mobile and technology industry. The theme for 2026 is “The IQ Era”. The event focused on integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) with advanced connectivity for smarter networks, digital innovation, and societal transformation. The event was organised by the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA). Indian telecom innovators showcased their technologies and innovations at the global platform.

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The National Additive Manufacturing Symposium 2026 was held in New Delhi, where the Indian Army participated with stakeholders from government, industry, academia and defence. The symposium discussed the growing role of Additive Manufacturing (AM) in strengthening India’s manufacturing ecosystem and improving defence capabilities. The Indian Army delegation was led by Rajiv Kumar Sahni, Director General of the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers.

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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.

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Ordnance Factory Day 2026 is celebrated across India on 18 March to honour the country’s legacy in defence manufacturing and self-reliance. The day commemorates the beginning of production at India’s first ordnance factory in Cossipore, Kolkata, in 1802, highlighting its historical importance in strengthening national security. India’s ordnance manufacturing network consists of 41 factories employing over 70,000 personnel, contributing significantly to defence preparedness. These factories produce a wide range of defence equipment, including small arms, artillery, armoured vehicles, parachutes, and military electronics, and also export products to more than 30 countries.

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World Oral Health Day (WOHD) is observed annually on 20 March to promote oral hygiene awareness and reduce the burden of oral diseases. It was declared in 2007 (initially observed on 12 September), marking the birth anniversary of Dr. Charles Godon, founder of FDI World Dental Federation. The global campaign is led by the FDI World Dental Federation, promoting awareness at individual, community, and policy levels.