1. World AIDS Vaccine Day - 18 May
Tags: Important Days
World AIDS Vaccine Day is observed on 18 May and it emphasises the importance of making a vaccine for HIV, an incurable disease.
An Overview of the News
World AIDS Vaccine Day is also known as HIV Vaccine Awareness Day.
Pays tribute to the scientists and researchers working on the HIV/AIDS vaccine and raises awareness.
According to the World Health Organisation, HIV has killed 40.1 million people globally.
History of World AIDS Vaccine Day:
On May 18, 1997, former US President Bill Clinton gave a speech at Morgan State University in Maryland.
President Clinton stressed the importance of a highly effective HIV vaccine to combat and eliminate HIV transmission.
In honour of President Clinton's speech, May 18 was designated as World AIDS Vaccine Day.
The first event of World AIDS Vaccine Day was held in 1998.
About HIV Infection
HIV weakens the immune system and can lead to AIDS.
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is an effective treatment and prevention method for HIV.
World Health Organization:
Establishment - 7 April 1948
Head - Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
Headquarters - Geneva, Switzerland
2. International Museum Day 2023- 18 May
Tags: Important Days
International Museum Day (IMD) is an annual international event organised by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) on 18 May.
An Overview of the News
Each year, IMD focuses on a different theme that reflects a relevant issue or theme affecting museums globally.
The theme for this year 2023 is Museums, Sustainability and Wellbeing.
IMD aims to raise public awareness of the important role museums play in the development of society.
The day encourages dialogue and exchange of ideas among museum professionals.
The first International Museum Day was organised by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) in 1977.
The adoption of an annual theme for the IMD began in 1992.
IMD's previous years' themes include:
2022: The Power of Museums
2021: The Future of Museums: Recover and Reimagine
2020: Museum for Equality: Diversity and Inclusion
3. World Telecommunication and Information Society Day - 17 May
Tags: Important Days
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is observed on 17 May and is organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
An Overview of the News
The event was earlier known as World Telecom Day.
The day emphasises the influence of the Internet and communication technologies.
It aims to address connectivity challenges in various regions.
The theme for 2023 is “Enabling the least developed nations through information and communication technologies.”
The event is held at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland and raises awareness of the role and impact of telecommunications and information technology.
The day highlights the transformative power of communication tools such as the Internet and mobile networks.
History of World Telecom Day
It was established on May 17, 1969, and on this day in 1865, the ITU (International Telegraph Union) was established.
ITU was originally known as International Telegraph Union and later became International Telecommunication Union.
In 1947, the ITU became a specialised agency of the United Nations and the United Nations General Assembly declared 17 May as World Information Society Day in 2006.
About the International Telegraph Union
Established - 17 May 1865
Headquarters - Geneva, Switzerland
Parent Organization - United Nations Economic and Social Council
Secretary General - Doreen Bogdan-Martin
4. World Hypertension Day - 17 May
Tags: Important Days
World Hypertension Day is observed annually on 17 May to raise awareness about hypertension (high blood pressure) and promote preventive measures, early detection, and management of this global health issue.
An overview of the news
The day serves as a platform to educate individuals, communities, health professionals and policy makers about healthy blood pressure levels and the risks associated with high blood pressure.
The day plays a crucial role in raising awareness about hypertension, its causes, risk factors, and the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring.
It seeks to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding hypertension and promote accurate information.
Theme of 2023 is 'Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer'.
Background of the day
World Hypertension Day was first established in 2005 by the World Hypertension League (WHL),
WHL is an umbrella organization composed of hypertension-related societies and leagues from around the world.
The day was created to address the increasing prevalence of hypertension and its associated health risks.
5. International Day of Families - 15 May
Tags: Important Days
International Day of Families is observed on 15 May to raise awareness about the importance of families and their role in society.
An Overview of the News
It is a global observance observed by countries around the world, including the United States.
The theme for International Day of Families 2023 is 'Demographic Trends and Families', while the theme for 2022 was 'Families and Urbanisation'.
The significance of the day lies in raising awareness about the importance of families as the basic unit of society.
History of International Day of Families
This day was declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993.
It aims to promote awareness of the importance of families as the basic unit of society and to address issues related to the global family.
The first International Day of the Family was observed in 1994, and is observed annually on 15 May.
The United Nations recognizes the challenges that families face around the world, such as poverty, inequality and social exclusion.
International Day of Families provides an opportunity to raise awareness of these challenges and advocate for policies and programs that support families.
6. World Migratory Bird Day - 13 May
Tags: Important Days
World Migratory Bird Day 2023 was observed on 13 May this year with an aim to focus on the conservation of migratory birds.
An overview of the news
Migratory birds are those birds that migrate to other parts of the world other than their native places to escape the winter season.
Migratory birds travel thousands of miles each year, often facing numerous challenges such as habitat loss, climate change, and illegal hunting along their journey.
Many migratory bird species are declining in population, and their disappearance can have significant ecological and economic consequences.
World Migratory Bird Day aims to promote international cooperation to conserve migratory birds and their habitats through awareness-raising, education, and conservation actions.
Individuals can contribute to the conservation of migratory birds by taking simple actions such as reducing their use of plastic, supporting bird-friendly policies and practices, and reporting any illegal activities related to migratory birds.
Through collective efforts, we can help ensure the survival and well-being of migratory birds, which play a vital role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems and sustaining biodiversity.
Theme of World Migratory Bird Day 2023 is ‘Water and its importance for migratory birds’.
Background of the day
The day was first initiated in 2006 by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS).
Since its inception, World Migratory Bird Day has grown to become a global event celebrated in over 100 countries, involving various organizations, governments, and individuals.
7. International Day of Plant Health -12 May
Tags: Important Days
International Day of Plant Health is observed every year on 12 May.
An overview of the news
The day was announced by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2019 to raise awareness about the importance of protecting plant health for the well-being of people, the environment and the economy.
Plant health is important for ensuring food security, protecting biodiversity, and preventing the spread of pests and diseases that harm plants, animals, and humans.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is leading global efforts to promote plant health and prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
FAO works with governments, farmers, researchers and other stakeholders to develop and implement strategies to manage plant pests and diseases and to ensure the health and productivity of crops and forests.
The theme for International Day of Plant Health 2023 is "Plant Health for All: Protecting Plants, Protecting Life."
Purpose of the day
The day aims to raise awareness of the importance of protecting plants from pests and diseases and to encourage action at all levels to improve plant health.
It also recognizes the work of plant health professionals, scientists and farmers in protecting the health of plants and ensuring a sustainable future for all.
Background of the day
The day was announced by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2019.
The first International Day of Plant Health was observed in 2020.
8. International Nurses Day - 12 May
Tags: Important Days
International Nurses Day is celebrated on 12 May across the world to honour the services of nurses.
An Overview of the News
The day is celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing and a renowned English social reformer and statistician.
Florence Nightingale is known as the "Lady with the Lamp".
This year the theme of International Nurses Day 2023 is "Our Nurses, Our Future".
The theme for International Nurses Day 2022 is "Nurses: A Voice to Lead – Invest in Nursing and Respect Rights to Secure Global Health".
International Nurses Week is celebrated from May 6 to May 12 in many hospitals around the world.
Various activities including yoga sessions and seminars are organised during this week to recognize and support nurses.
Background of the day
Florence Nightingale was born on May 12, 1820, in Florence, Italy and is widely regarded as the forerunner of modern nursing.
In 1974, the International Council of Nurses (ICN) proposed 12 May as International Nurses Day and since then it is celebrated globally.
The theme of International Nurses Day changes every year with the aim of highlighting the important contribution of nurses to the healthcare system and society.
The day serves as an opportunity to recognize and appreciate the selfless service of nurses who work tirelessly to care for patients, save lives, and promote health and wellness.
9. National Technology Day-11 May
Tags: Important Days
National Technology Day is celebrated every year on 11 May.
An overview of the news
On this day, various government organizations, institutes, schools and colleges organize events to honor the scientists of India and their achievements.
India is one of the fastest growing developing countries in the world, and much of the credit goes to technological advancements.
In the 21st century, scientists and engineers are leading the country on the path of development.
India has made significant progress in science and research in the last three decades.
India's science and technology has improved the country's position on global forums.
For 2023, the theme is 'School to Startups-Igniting Young Minds to innovate.
Background of the day
Under the leadership of then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, India conducted a series of five nuclear bomb tests at Pokhran in May 1998.
After the success of Pokhran-II, the government declared May 11 as National Technology Day in 1998.
In doing so, India became the sixth country to join the 'nuclear club'.
The test was led by the late APJ Abdul Kalam, an aerospace scientist who became the eleventh President of India.
On the same day in 1998, India test-fired its first indigenous aircraft Hansa-3 which took off in Bengaluru.
On that day, the surface-to-air missile Trishulwas also successfully test fired.
With many technological advancements in a single day, the Government of India announced the celebration of May 11 as National Technology Day.
The first nuclear test was conducted in May 1974.
The day was first officially celebrated on 11 May 1999.
Significance of the day
It reminds people of the scientific achievements of the country.
It is a day to honour all those who have contributed to the advancement of science.
It honours the hard work and efforts of all those who have contributed to the technological progress of our country.
10. World Thalassemia Day - 8 May
Tags: Important Days
World Thalassemia Day is a global health care event, observed every year on 8 May across the globe.
An overview of the news
Apart from raising awareness about the disease among the local public and policy makers, the day strengthens the morale of the victims, who have been battling this deadly disease for years.
On this day, many local and international organisations, patient associations, public authorities, and healthcare professionals gather together to promote the importance of prenatal screening, counselling, prevention, management, or treatment of thalassemia in a patient-centred manner.
This year the theme on World Thalassemia Day is “Be Aware, Share, Care : Strengthening Education to bridge the Thalassemia care gap.
Background of the day
The first World Thalassemia Day was declared on May 8, 1994, by Panos Englezos, the president and founder of the Thalassemia International Federation (TIF).
In honour of his (Panos Englezos) son George and the numerous thalassemia patients who battled this disease, Panos Englezos established this day.
About Thalassemia
Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder that causes the human body to have less haemoglobin than normal.
Iron deficiency is the most common and can cause extreme tiredness, shortness of breath, weakness and cold hands and feet.
Iron is a mineral that our body needs for growth, development and making haemoglobin.
Haemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body.
Iron is a cofactor for neurotransmitters and is important for the synthesis and metabolism of hormones.
