Current Affairs search results for tag: important-days
By admin: June 23, 2023

1. International Olympic Day-23 June

Tags: Important Days

International-Olympic-Day-23-JuneInternational Olympic Day is celebrated every year on 23 June.

An overview of the news

  • Olympic Day is an annual celebration that promotes sport, health, and unity worldwide.

  • Olympic Day symbolizes the commitment to making the world a better place through the power of sport.

  • The International Olympic Committee (IOC) was founded on June 23, 1894, at the Sorbonne in Paris, thanks to the efforts of Pierre de Coubertin. This day marks the revival of the Ancient Olympic Games.

  • The launch of a global movement on June 23rd seeks to encourage people to prioritize physical activity in their lives.

  • The theme for this year's Olympic Day is 'Let's Move,' which aims to inspire individuals worldwide to prioritize regular physical activity in their daily lives.

Background of the day

  • The International Olympic Committee was established in Paris on 23 June 1894.

  • International Olympic Day was first celebrated in 1948.

  • In 1948, a total of 9 countries celebrated this day in their respective countries.

  • But with the energy and positivity with which Olympians have inspired millions across the world over time, the celebration has now become a global one.

  • Despite any discrimination based on age, gender, etc National Olympic Committees across the world organise creative events based on the three pillars 'Move, Learn and Discover'.

By admin: June 23, 2023

2. World Hydrography Day 2023

Tags: Important Days

World-Hydrography-Day-2023World Hydrography Day is an annual celebration held on June 21st to raise awareness about hydrography and its significance. 

An overview of the news

  • The primary objective of hydrography is to measure water depth and identify navigational hazards such as wrecks and rocks. 

  • This is accomplished through various methods, including the use of specialized boats with echo sounders and sonars, laser-equipped survey aircraft, and satellite observations.

Theme of 2023

  • The theme for World Hydrography Day 2023 is "Hydrography – underpinning the digital twin of the ocean." 

  • This theme emphasizes the interconnectedness of hydrography and oceanography in creating a virtual representation of the ocean known as the "digital twin."

Background of the day

  • It was established by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) to highlight the importance of hydrography in marine conservation and safe navigation.

  • The concept of World Hydrography Day was proposed by the IHO in 2005, and it was officially adopted by the UN General Assembly through Resolution A/RES/60/30 Oceans and the Law of the Sea.

What is Hydrography?

  • Hydrography also involves the calculation of tides and currents in oceans and seas. 

  • It is considered an applied science that supports navigation safety, economic growth, security and defense, scientific research, and the understanding of ocean physics.

By admin: June 23, 2023

3. World Hydrography Day (WHD) celebrated by Indian Navy Hydrographic Department

Tags: Important Days

World-Hydrography-Day-(WHD)World Hydrography Day (WHD) was observed by the Indian Navy Hydrographic Department on 21 June 2023.

An Overview of the News

  • The theme of this year's WHD was "Hydrography – Underpinning the Digital; Twin of the Ocean" to highlight the evolution of virtual representation.

  • National Hydrographic Office (NHO) in Dehradun organized WHD celebrations with various activities.

  • The activities aim to raise awareness of the important role of hydrography in ensuring safe navigation and promoting sustainable maritime development.

  • NHO associates itself with the national policy of self-reliance and Vasudeva Kutumbhkumam.

NHO:

  • It conducts hydrographic survey activities in various Indian Ocean Region (IOR) coastal countries.

  • The department has conducted about 96 overseas cooperation surveys, covering 89,000 sq km of water area, and prepared 38 overseas paper charts and 41 electronic navigation charts for IOR littoral countries.

  • The NHO produces and regularly updates 333 paper navigational charts, 349 electronic navigation charts and various marine publications for the safety of mariners.

  • The NHO hosted a number of activities to celebrate WHD, including public outreach events and school visits.

By admin: June 23, 2023

4. International Widows Day - 23 June

Tags: Important Days

International-Widows-Day---23-JuneInternational Widows Day is observed annually on 23 June.

An Overview of the News

  • The day aims to raise awareness about the challenging circumstances faced by widows, especially poverty.

  • The theme for International Widows Day 2023 is "Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality".

  • The United Nations introduces a new theme each year to highlight the challenges faced by widows.

  • The theme chosen for 2023 emphasizes the role of innovative solutions and technological advances in promoting gender equality.

History of International Widows Day:

  • It was established in 2005 by The Loomba Foundation.

  • In 2010, the United Nations officially adopted International Widows Day, increasing its importance globally.

  • The recognition from the United Nations ensures that there is international support for the issues faced by widows and the need to address their challenges.

About United Nations

  • Member countries -193

  • Official Languages - Russian, English, French, Arabic, Chinese and Spanish.

  • Motto - Peace, Dignity and Equality on a Healthy Planet

  • Secretary-General - Antonio Guterres

  • Headquarters - New York, United States

By admin: June 22, 2023

5. United Nations Public Service Day - 23 June

Tags: Important Days

United Nations Public Service Day is celebrated every year on 23 June.

An Overview of the News

  • The day is dedicated to appreciating the importance of public services and the people who work in them.

  • The United Nations established the United Nations Public Service Awards to recognize and reward exceptional public service projects.

  • The award program was updated in 2016 to align with the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

  • United Nations Public Service Day reminds us of the value of public service and encourages young people to consider careers in this field.

History of United Nations Public Service Day

  • On 20 December 2002, the General Assembly designated 23 June as United Nations Public Service Day.

  • It aims to recognize the important role of public service in development.

  • The United Nations Public Service Awards (UNPSA) were created to honor exemplary public service institutions.

  • UNPSA aims to improve government effectiveness and enhance public welfare.

  • Public service refers to the services provided by the government in a specific area.

  • Civil servants work to make a positive difference in people's lives and prioritize the well-being of the community.

  • United Nations Public Service Day and UNPSA promote the importance of public service around the world.

June 2023 Days and Themes

Days

Themes

21 June - International Yoga Day

"Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam"

21 June - World Music Day

"Music at the Intersections" (2022)

20 June - World Refugee Day

 "Hope away from home"

19 June - International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

"Bridging the gender digital divide to prevent, address and respond to conflict-related sexual violence."

By admin: June 21, 2023

6. World Music Day - 21 June

Tags: Important Days

World-Music-Day---21-JuneWorld Music Day, also known as Fête de la Musique, is celebrated annually on 21 June.

An Overview of the News

  • The program emphasizes the impact of music and its ability to connect people universally.

  • Musicians from different genres come together to showcase their talents in public areas.

  • World Music Day promotes a vibrant and inclusive environment for people around the world to appreciate music.

  • The theme for World Music Day 2022 was "Music at the Intersections".

  • The theme aims to explore and appreciate music at an intersectional level, highlighting the diverse influences and connections within music.

History of World Music Day:

  • The concept dates back to 1982, when French Minister of Culture Jacques Lang proposed the idea of a day dedicated to music.

  • An alternative theory suggests that the festival can be traced back to 1976 when Joel Cohen proposed an all-night concert to celebrate the summer solstice.

  • The first World Music Day event took place in Paris in 1982, with over 1,000 musicians performing in different parts of the city.

  • Musicians of all genres and backgrounds took to the streets, parks and concert venues to share their passion for music at the opening ceremony.

By admin: June 21, 2023

7. International Yoga Day - 21 June

Tags: Important Days

International Yoga Day - 21 June  (1)International Yoga Day is celebrated every year on 21 June.

An Overview of the News

  • The day aims to promote the many benefits of practicing yoga.

  • The date chosen coincides with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

  • International Yoga Day encourages physical, mental and spiritual harmony.

  • The theme chosen for International Day of Yoga 2023 is "Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam".

  • The theme represents the shared desire of "One Earth, One Family, One Future".

  • Yoga promotes meditation, stress reduction, and overall health and vitality.

  • In 2023, the International Day of Yoga took place on June 21 at the United Nations Headquarters under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

  • This is the first time that a yoga session was organized by the Prime Minister at this place.

History of International Yoga Day

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the idea of a dedicated Yoga Day in 2014 during his speech at the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

  • On 11 December 2014, all 193 member states of the United Nations unanimously agreed to observe 21 June as the International Day of Yoga.

  • The inaugural ceremony of International Day of Yoga took place on June 21, 2015.

  • International Yoga Day has received global recognition and is celebrated in more than 190 countries.

June 2023 Days and Themes


Days

Themes

14 June - World Blood Donor Day

"Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often."

13 June - International Albinism Awareness Day

"United in making our voices heard"

12 June -  World Day Against Child Labour 

"Social Justice for All. End Child Labour!"

8 June - World Oceans Day

"Planet Ocean: The Tides Are Changing".

By admin: June 20, 2023

8. World Refugee Day - 20 June

Tags: Important Days

World-Refugee-Day---20-JuneWorld Refugee Day is observed annually on 20 June.

An Overview of the News

  • World Refugee Day is an internationally recognized day established by the United Nations.

  • Its purpose is to pay tribute to refugees around the world.

  • The day serves as a platform to acknowledge the bravery and determination of individuals who have been forced to flee their homeland due to conflict or persecution.

  • The theme for World Refugee Day 2023 is "Hope away from home".

  • The theme emphasizes the importance of mental well-being for refugees in rebuilding their lives and striving for a brighter future.

History of World Refugee Day

  • It originated with the resolution 55/76 of the United Nations General Assembly passed on 4 December 2000.

  • The purpose of the resolution is to raise awareness of the growing global refugee population and to mark the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention.

  • The Refugee Convention of 1951 was established after World War II to establish a legal framework to protect and ensure the rights of refugees.

  • The convention defined criteria for identifying individuals as refugees, outlined their rights, and defined the responsibilities of states in providing protection and assistance to them.

By admin: June 19, 2023

9. World Sickle Cell Awareness Day - 19 June

Tags: Important Days

World-Sickle-Cell-Awareness-Day---19-JuneWorld Sickle Cell Awareness Day is observed on 19 June each year to raise awareness of the impact of sickle cell disease (SCD) on individuals, families and communities around the world.

An Overview of the News

  • It aims to raise awareness about sickle cell disease (SCD).

  • Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder and is characterised by abnormal red blood cells that take on a crescent or sickle shape.

  • Irregularly shaped cells can cause blockage in the blood vessels and this leads to various health complications.

  • This disease affects individuals, families and communities around the world.

  • This can result in organ damage, anaemia and increased susceptibility to infection.

History of World Sickle Cell Awareness Day:

  • It originated from a resolution passed by the United Nations General Assembly on 22 December 2008.

  • The resolution recognized sickle cell disease as a global health concern.

  • The disease mainly affects people of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and South Asian origin.

By admin: June 19, 2023

10. International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict - 19 June

Tags: Important Days

Elimination-of-Sexual-Violence-The International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict is observed on 19 June every year.

An Overview of the News

  • Its main goal is to raise awareness and end sexual violence in conflict situations.

  • The theme for 2023 is "Bridging the gender digital divide to prevent, address and respond to conflict-related sexual violence."

  • The day focuses on the prevalence and consequences of sexual violence in conflict zones.

About the United Nations (UN)

  • It was established in 1945 and is headquartered in New York, United States.

  • The primary goal of the United Nations is to adapt to an ever-changing world and to promote international cooperation among nations.

  • It serves as a central hub to facilitate dialogue, negotiation and coordination among its 193 member states.

  • The United Nations encompasses almost all globally recognized sovereign nations, making it a truly universal organization.

  • Its main focus lies in addressing global challenges such as peace and security, human rights, sustainable development and climate change.