1. World Ozone Day - 16 September
Tags: Important Days
World Ozone Day, also known as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, is observed annually on 16 September.
An Overview of the News
The ozone layer is composed primarily of trioxygen molecules (O3) and acts as a protective shield against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the Sun.
The theme of World Ozone Day 2023 is "Montreal Protocol: Recovering the ozone layer and mitigating climate change".
This theme underlines the important role of the Montreal Protocol not only in protecting the ozone layer but also in addressing and mitigating climate change.
History of World Ozone Day
On September 16, 1987, a landmark environmental treaty called the Montreal Protocol was established in Montreal, Canada.
The Montreal Protocol represents an important moment in global efforts to address the depletion of the ozone layer.
Its primary focus was on regulating ozone-depleting substances (ODS), which included substances such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, carbon tetrachloride, and methyl chloroform.
2. International Democracy Day - 15 September
Tags: Important Days
International Democracy Day is celebrated every year on 15 September.
An Overview of the News
International Democracy Day emphasizes the importance of democracy, considering it not only a fundamental human right but also a vital element in promoting good governance and peace.
The day reminds us of the important role of democracy in shaping societies globally.
In 2023, the theme of International Democracy Day focuses on "Empowering the Next Generation", highlighting the important contribution of young individuals in promoting democracy.
Acknowledging and promoting youth participation in democratic processes is a fundamental element for safeguarding the future of democracy.
History of International Democracy Day:-
It has its origins in the Universal Declaration on Democracy, which was adopted by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) on September 15, 1997.
The IPU is an international organization consisting of national parliaments around the world.
Qatar took a leading role in advocating the establishment of International Democracy Day following the adoption of the Universal Declaration on Democracy.
On November 8, 2007, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) took an important step by unanimously adopting a resolution entitled "Support by the United Nations System of Governments' Efforts to Promote and Consolidate New or Restored Democracies". This resolution formalized the International Day of Democracy.
About Democracy
It is a term that originates from the Greek words 'demos', which refers to a citizen of a city-state, and 'kratos', which refers to the concept of power or government.
Democracy is considered a fundamental value within the United Nations. It is built on key principles, including:
Respect for human rights: Democracy involves a commitment to upholding the rights of individuals.
Fundamental Freedom: It involves the protection of basic freedoms.
Periodic and genuine elections: Democracy involves the practice of holding honest and legitimate elections on a regular basis.
Universal suffrage: Ensures that all eligible citizens have the right to vote.
Democracy is a system that gives citizens the right to choose their leaders.
It encourages active participation of citizens in the processes that determine decisions affecting their lives.
3. World Suicide Prevention Day - 10 September
Tags: Important Days
World Suicide Prevention Day is observed every year on 10 September.
An Overview of the News
Suicide is a significant public health concern with wide-ranging social, emotional, and economic impacts.
Globally, there are more than 700,000 suicides each year, and the impact of each suicide spreads to many others.
Triennial Theme of World Suicide Prevention Day:
The triennial theme of World Suicide Prevention Day, running from 2021 to 2023, is "Creating Hope Through Action".
The theme serves as a compelling call to action and emphasizes that alternatives to suicide exist.
Through our actions, we can create hope and strengthen suicide prevention efforts.
Creating hope through action communicates our care and support to individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts.
History of World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD):
It was founded in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO).
This annual festival is celebrated on 10 September each year and its primary objectives include reducing the stigma associated with suicide and raising awareness in various sectors such as organizations, governments, and the general public.
The overarching message of WSPD is that suicides are preventable while emphasizing the importance of proactive measures and support.
4. World Physiotherapy Day - 8 September
Tags: Important Days
World Physiotherapy Day is celebrated every year on 8 September.
An Overview of the News
The theme of World Physiotherapy Day 2023 is "Prevention and Management of Osteoarthritis".
This theme emphasizes the role of physiotherapists in preventing and managing osteoarthritis and highlights two types of inflammatory arthritis: rheumatoid arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis.
History of World Physiotherapy Day:-
World Physical Therapy Day was established in 1996 by the World Confederation for Physical Therapy.
8 September was specifically chosen to celebrate this day because of its historical significance. On this day in 1951, the World Confederation for Physical Therapy was born.
The name of the organization changed and is now called World Physiotherapy.
5. International Literacy Day - 8 September
Tags: Important Days
International Literacy Day is celebrated every year on 8 September.
An Overview of the News
The day aims to highlight the importance of literacy for human rights, dignity, and the development of sustainable societies.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is responsible for overseeing and promoting International Literacy Day.
The theme of 2023:
The theme for International Literacy Day 2023 is ‘Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies’.
Literacy Day is celebrated at various levels including global, regional, national and local.
Global Programme:
A conference, both in person and online, will be held in Paris, France on September 8, 2023, as part of the global celebration.
UNESCO International Literacy Award:
During the global event, outstanding literacy promotion programs will be recognized by conferring UNESCO International Literacy Awards.
History of International Literacy Day:-
UNESCO introduced International Literacy Day in 1966 at its 14th General Conference.
The first International Literacy Day was celebrated in 1967.
The official date of International Literacy Day is 26 October, which was established during the 1966 UNESCO conference.
The primary goal of this day is to highlight the importance of literacy for individuals, communities and society.
Literacy is seen as the foundation of a well-educated and productive society.
6. "International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies" - 7 September
Tags: Important Days
“International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies” is observed annually on 7 September.
An Overview of the News
The day is dedicated to recognizing the vital importance of clean air for people's well-being and daily life.
The theme of 2023:
The theme of the fourth annual International Day of Clean Air for blue skies in 2023 is "Together for Clean Air".
This theme serves multiple objectives: strengthening partnerships, increasing investment, shared responsibility, impacts on health and ecosystems, protecting the environment, ensuring healthy air for all
History of "International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies"
Resolution 74/212 of January 22, 2020, established September 7 as the "International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies".
The Second Committee of the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly passed the resolution on November 26, 2019.
The purpose of this day is to promote awareness and actions to improve air quality.
Its central focus is on reducing air pollution to protect human health.
7. National Teacher Award 2023 to be awarded to outstanding teachers by the President of India
Tags: Important Days
The President of India Draupadi Murmu will confer the National Awards to Teachers 2023 to 75 teachers on September 5, 2023, at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
An Overview of the News
The event is organized annually on 5th September, the birthday of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, which is celebrated as National Teachers' Day in India.
The objective of the National Teacher Awards is to acknowledge and celebrate the extraordinary contribution of teachers to education and the positive impact they have on the lives of students.
Reward Benefits:
Each award includes a certificate of merit.
Cash prize of Rs. 50,000.
A silver medal.
Opportunity to interact with the Honorable Prime Minister.
Extent of Award Area:
The Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education organizes this event to honor outstanding teachers.
This year the National Award to Teachers has been expanded to include the following teachers:
Higher Education Department
Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
Number of award winners:
A total of 75 teachers will be honored in 2023:
50 school teachers
13 Higher Education Teacher
12 teachers from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
History of Teacher's Day in India:
In 1962, Dr. S. Radhakrishnan became the President of India.
His students approached him to celebrate 5 September as a special day.
Instead, Dr. Radhakrishnan proposed to celebrate this date as Teachers' Day.
Its objective was to recognize and honor the valuable contribution of teachers to society.
While the global World Teachers' Day falls on 5 October and is led by organizations like UNESCO, UNICEF, and ILO, India decided to celebrate it on 5 September.
Dr. Radhakrishnan's students accepted his suggestion and since then 5th September has been celebrated as Teacher's Day in India.
8. World Sanskrit Day - 31 August
Tags: Important Days
World Sanskrit Day is celebrated annually on 31 August, an occasion dedicated to celebrating the importance of Sanskrit.
An Overview of the News
The day serves as an opportunity to spread awareness about the language that was used by scholars and saints in ancient India to compose revered texts, especially those related to religious teachings and philosophy.
Alternate name - Vishva-Sanskrit-dinam:
Also known as Vishva-Sanskrit-Dinam, this day is an annual event focusing on the ancient Indian language Sanskrit.
It consists of lectures about the language and aims to promote its revival and preservation.
History of World Sanskrit Day
It started in 1969 when the Government of India started its establishment.
This day honors the contribution of Panini to Sanskrit language and linguistics.
It coincides with the birth anniversary of Panini, which emphasizes the purpose of the celebration.
The event has gained global recognition, bringing together Sanskrit scholars and enthusiasts from around the world.
9. National Sports Day - 29 August
Tags: Important Days
National Sports Day in India is celebrated every year on 29 August.
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The day commemorates the enduring legacy of Major Dhyan Chand, the great Indian hockey player.
It serves as a tribute to the extraordinary achievements of athletes and their influence in shaping society.
The theme for this year's National Sports Day celebrations is "Sports are an enabler to an inclusive and fit society".
People can participate in the celebration by using the hashtag #NationalSportsDay in their social media posts.
History of National Sports Day
The National Sports Day celebrated in India is based on the birth of Major Dhyan Chand, an eminent sports personality known for his hockey excellence.
Major Dhyan Chand was born on August 29, 1905, and started his career in the British Indian Army Regimental Team.
Due to his remarkable skill, India won three consecutive Olympic gold medals in hockey in 1928, 1932 and 1936.
In 2012, the Government of India declared Major Dhyan Chand's birthday as National Sports Day to honor his unique contribution to sports.
The primary goal of this declaration was toinspire future generations and emphasize the importance of promoting sports and physical fitness among all strata of society.
10. Women's Equality Day - 26 August
Tags: Important Days
Women's Equality Day is celebrated every year on 26 August.
An Overview of the News
The day acknowledges the ongoing global struggle for equal rights and opportunities for women.
It serves as a tribute to the universal suffrage movement and celebrates the progress of women.
The day reinforces the commitment to achieve gender equality at the global level.
The theme of Women's Equality Day 2023:
The theme for Women's Equality Day 2023 is "Embrace Equality".
This theme is in line with the Strategic Plan from 2021 to 2026.
"Embracing Equality" underscores the importance of achieving gender equality.
Gender equality is seen not only as a driver of economic development but also as a fundamental human right.
History of Women's Equality Day
It begins with the ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment to the US Constitution, which gives women the right to vote.
Its importance is attached to 26 August 1970, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of this important amendment.
The National Organization for Women (NOW) took advantage of this opportunity by advocating a "strike for equality".
More than 100,000 women participated in strikes organized by NOW in more than 90 major US cities.
The wide participation in the strike highlighted the importance of continuing efforts toward gender equality.
In 1971, the US Congress officially established Women's Equality Day to honor the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment and the ongoing pursuit of full women's rights.
